After the challenging past two years, there has been a marked increase in demand for upgraded infrastructure around the world. There are a lot of projects planned for 2022 and beyond, but is there enough skill available to fulfill these construction projects? Who can solve this skills crisis and how will it be solved? Leadership at every level has an imperative role to play in solving this problem. Therefore, the way the company is managed, organized and led needs to be changed. A new culture should be established with a focus on the following steps.

  1. Improve the Recruiting Process

The leadership of every construction company will need to step up to manage the skills crisis. There is a need to change the recruitment process by focusing on promoting an inclusive culture. With the aging workforce retiring, more young people should be encouraged to join the industry and provided with development opportunities and the right training. Awareness of the benefits of a career in construction will attract younger people to join the industry. Also, it is essential to provide equal opportunities to female workers to increase their retention within the industry. Leaders should value the skills of their current workers, recruit the right people, and offer ongoing training wherever it is required.

  1. Open Up Communications

It is crucial that there is open communication between management and employees. The suggestions and feedback provided by employees can help management to understand the problem and find appropriate solutions. Leaders need to start a conversation with their workers by understanding how they are doing their work, and what their challenges and needs are. This understanding can help leaders within the construction industry find ways to alleviate the skills crisis.

  1. Reevaluate Company Culture

The success or failure of the company depends on how people, top to bottom, behave with each other. Therefore, it is critical for any organization to have a company culture that promotes trust and transparency. The efficient leader knows the pulse of the company and makes appropriate changes to maintain its harmony.

  1. Leverage Technology

Construction workers can work more efficiently and faster with the help of technology. It can help skilled workers increase productivity and make their work less challenging. It can also attract younger workers who are more comfortable with using newer technology. Training and professional development can help older workers keep up with the changing trends.

There are no quick fixes for the skills crisis within the construction industry, but smart leadership can take these necessary steps to find long-term solutions.

If you would like to discuss skills crisis in construction, book a call here with our team members at Raymond Search Group and we would be happy to share what some of the most successful construction leaders are doing right now to ensure they remain competitive in this ever-changing market