Although the demand for construction has never been greater, the industry is struggling to cope with it due to shortages of both labour and skilled labour, putting pressure on business owners and stunting the growth of the construction industry itself. These modern day challenges which have started to represent themselves are preventing businesses from trying to compete with one another, as well as preventing them from effectively maintaining safety on site on a daily basis.
Plenty of businesses will decide to bury their heads in the sand and avoid addressing the issue, putting both their workforce and business at risk, but others will take a more proactive approach and fix the problem in order to avoid losing their business altogether.
Here are some ways to effectively overcome the issues and challenges of both labour and skill shortages in the construction industry today.
1. Safety first
One of the biggest problems facing construction companies during this skilled worker crisis is the lack of safety on site as a result. By creating and nurturing a company culture based on safety at all times, you can at least rest assured that you will not be held accountable or liable for any incidents, whilst reducing risk and keeping your workforce safe.
2. Find fresh talent
Even the very best recruitment methods have an expiry date, so why not visit schools and colleges and offer work experience placements to those who are not thinking of heading off to university? Alternatively, place job adverts on Facebook and LinkedIn. In the digital age, word of mouth recruitment does not need to be restricted to a 50-mile radius. Expand your horizons and you never know what you might find.
3. Screen applicants carefully
Although there are lots of inadequate workers out there, you will find some diamonds in the rough – if you look hard enough, that is. Make sure you interview each applicant and invite them in for a thorough trial to see what they are really capable of. A rigorous screening process paired with a good training programme will help you to avoid employing those who are not quite skilled enough and is likely to improve the quality of your workforce tenfold.
4. Training and mentoring
If you are finding that the number of skilled workers applying for roles is depleting, then why not create some knowledgeable staff of your own? Although it might seem as though you are wasting valuable time in training staff, think of it as a way to train your workforce to suit your needs whilst getting the job done at the same time. It really is a win-win.
5. Accurate deadlines
At a time where skilled workers are at an all time low, it is important to set reasonable expectations in regards to time. Avoid disappointment, shifting deadlines and overworking your team by giving realistic time frames to match the number of workers you have working on a particular project.
Although the current shortage of skilled workers paired with an increase in demand is placing lots of pressure on business owners, it is important to note that all is not yet lost. By planning for the worst and putting more time and effort into your recruitment processes and training thereafter, you can prevent your business from falling short.
If you think you have what it takes to pursue a career in construction, civil engineering or utilities, do not hesitate to get in touch with us at Lydon Contracting on 01327 811 533 or at info@lydoncontracting.com. We look forward to hearing from you.
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