The purpose of this research was to identify the important characteristics that a construction project manager should possess to ensure successful communication. The characteristics of a project manager indicate the type of leader and leadership style that the project manager applies during the management of projects. Method: A research questionnaire focussing on communication skills of project managers, in terms of importance for the successful management of projects was circulated. The results of the survey were compiled and analysed. The results of the research illustrate those characteristics which are important for managing projects successfully. The characteristics further indicate by implication the project managers’ leadership styles with managing projects. The implications of this research may be in understanding the influence of the project manager characteristics. This may indicate to developers and construction companies that they should pay more attention to the characteristics of project managers’ and their skills in communication, in order to improve the outcome of projects and to benefit the construction industry as a whole. The value is that the building industry, specifically project managers, should know the influence and effect a style of leadership has on the management of projects and that these characteristics are essential for effective completion of projects. Conclusion and recommendation: Knowledge of the characteristics and leadership styles followed by construction project managers will contribute to solving communication problems. The project manager has to sum up the situation and then adapt a style according to that specific situation.