6 Tips for A Career in Construction

 

Did you know that the construction industry is the third-largest employment sector in Australia, constituting about 9% of the total workforce? Statistics show that there will be almost a10% rise in jobs in this industry by May 2023.

These statistics make it clear that career in construction could be a good choice. However, if you think construction may be your calling, it’s important you know how to succeed in this career. Thankfully, we’ve put together these six tips to see you succeeding in your construction career for years to come. 

• Get qualifications

Make a good start on your construction career by getting qualified. There are all sorts of construction qualifications you can get from a range of tertiary educators. Choose one that interests you and teaches you an in-demand skill. This will make it easier to land your first job in the industry.

And once you get your qualification and a job, it’s important to keep upskilling. There’s always something new to learn and it will help you stand out from the crowd and make you better at your job. Take advantage of any opportunities to learn more, whether it’s through your work or with a tertiary institution.

• Choose a trade or specialisation

The construction industry is full of specialists. Specialising is a great way to progress your construction career while getting to do a job you love. Think about what you enjoy doing in your construction work and whether there’s an appropriate specialisation. For instance, if you like looking at the bigger picture, you may want to become a construction manager.

When choose a specialisation that you’re passionate about, you’re more likely to enjoy your work on a daily basis. You are also more likely to succeed in your career. 

• Follow directions from superiors

Following directions of superiors is important for any career, but it may be even more important for the construction industry. Often construction projects involve millions of dollars, as well as plenty of risks. Your superiors will know the best way to get the job done without losing money or putting someone at risk. By following instructions, you show that you understand the importance of this and show that you’re a good worker.

If you do think there may be a problem with the instruction or you need clarification, you shouldn’t hesitate to ask. This can be a way to learn on the job. Remember to be polite and understanding that your superior may be presently busy and there may be a better time to ask questions.  

• Focus on safety

The construction industry has many safety regulations and standards for good reason. There are a lot of risks involved with construction work, from using heavy machinery to working in dangerous conditions like up high on skyscrapers. Therefore, you need to always make safety a priority.

Not only does this show that you respect your co-workers, but it also shows that you understand your job and how to do it properly. Remember to follow all safety directions and regulations and advise your supervisors if you think there is an unnecessary risk being taken. 

• Stay positive

Having a “can-do” attitude can take you a long way. Try to always have a positive attitude when you’re at work and stay motivated to get the job done well and quickly. This will help you be a good team player, as well as reflect positively on you as worker. It also helps create a pleasant work environment for everyone.

Having a good attitude can also make it easier to learn from your mistakes. Rather than becoming frustrated at making a mistake, take a moment to calm down and figure out what went long and learn from the experience.

• Network

Start growing your industry network when you enter the industry. Your network should include your co-workers and employers, but also construction recruitment agencies and other construction workers.

Talk about what interests you in your job and what ambitions you have for your career. Do what you can to show that you are a good worker and always be friendly. This way, you may find yourself regularly being approached with new opportunities, like mentorships and even new roles. 

Conclusion:

Use our tips above to get your construction career off to a flying start. With perseverance and patience, you can land your dream job. Remember to stay positive and to keep learning to get better at your job every day. And don’t forget to make good connections.