One of the biggest challenges in the construction industry today is finding and retaining skilled labor. For those of us who run construction businesses, like I do at MRM Construction Services, a reliable, skilled team is absolutely essential for delivering high-quality results to our clients. But with a labor shortage affecting the industry, hiring the right people and keeping them has become more challenging than ever.
In this blog, I’ll go over some key strategies for hiring skilled workers and, just as importantly, how to retain them once they’re on board. Building a team you can trust doesn’t happen overnight, but with the right approach, you can develop a loyal, dependable workforce that helps take your business to the next level.
Prioritizing Skills and Attitude in Hiring
When hiring, it’s important to look beyond just experience or technical skill and also consider attitude, work ethic, and willingness to learn. In my years of experience, I’ve found that skills can be taught, but a good attitude is invaluable. A candidate who’s eager to learn, has a strong work ethic, and respects teamwork is often a better long-term investment than someone with a stellar resume but a poor attitude.
At MRM Construction Services, we prioritize both skill and character. We look for candidates with a solid foundation in their trade but who are also ready to adapt and grow. We’ve had success hiring people who may not have years of experience but are passionate about learning and contributing. This approach has helped us build a team that’s not only technically competent but also committed to our company’s values.
Offering Competitive Compensation and Benefits
One of the main reasons workers leave their jobs is to find better pay or benefits. If you want to attract and keep skilled workers, you need to offer competitive compensation. While this may be challenging for smaller construction businesses, investing in your team’s financial well-being is crucial to building a loyal workforce.
Beyond just wages, offering benefits like health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off can make a big difference in employee satisfaction. Additionally, flexibility and respect for work-life balance can set you apart in the industry. In a field as demanding as construction, showing that you value your team’s personal lives as well as their professional contributions can go a long way.
Focusing on Training and Development
Construction technology and best practices are constantly evolving, and investing in training keeps your team’s skills sharp and relevant. We make it a priority at MRM to provide our team with training opportunities that help them grow in their roles. Not only does this benefit our business by ensuring we have a team equipped with the latest skills, but it also shows our employees that we’re invested in their careers.
Whether it’s safety certifications, training on new construction technology, or leadership skills, giving workers the chance to develop is essential for retaining them. Many skilled laborers leave jobs because they feel they’ve hit a ceiling and don’t see a path to growth. Providing ongoing training and professional development options is a key way to keep people engaged and motivated.
Creating a Positive Company Culture
Company culture is often what keeps employees around even when other opportunities come along. In construction, where physical demands are high, a supportive and positive work environment can make a huge difference in job satisfaction. At MRM, we focus on creating a culture where every team member feels valued and respected.
Simple gestures, like recognizing hard work, promoting teamwork, and providing open channels for communication, can go a long way in creating a positive culture. We encourage our team to share their ideas and concerns openly, and we try to foster an environment where everyone feels comfortable asking questions or offering suggestions. When people feel like they’re a valued part of the team, they’re far more likely to stay.
Offering Paths for Advancement
Many construction workers want a career, not just a job. Offering a clear path for advancement within your company is one of the best ways to attract and retain skilled labor. Workers who see opportunities for growth are more likely to stay with a company long-term, knowing they can move up the ranks if they work hard.
At MRM Construction Services, we focus on promoting from within whenever possible. We make it known that if our team members show dedication, learn new skills, and take on new responsibilities, they’ll have the opportunity to advance. For many skilled workers, the chance to grow and develop within the company is a huge incentive.
Prioritizing Safety and Well-being
Construction can be a risky business, and demonstrating a commitment to safety is essential for building a trustworthy team. Employees need to feel that their well-being is a priority. By investing in proper training, providing high-quality equipment, and ensuring that safety protocols are followed, you show that you care about their health and safety.
At MRM, we hold regular safety meetings, conduct on-site inspections, and encourage everyone to report any hazards they notice. When workers know that you’re actively looking out for their safety, they’re more likely to stay with the company. A safe environment is a productive one, and it’s a key factor in retaining skilled labor.
Building Loyalty Through Communication and Respect
Finally, one of the simplest yet most effective ways to build a strong team is through respect and clear communication. Skilled laborers are professionals, and they want to be treated as such. Listening to their ideas, respecting their opinions, and giving them the opportunity to contribute meaningfully can foster loyalty and trust.
In my experience, the best teams are built on mutual respect. At MRM Construction Services, we’re committed to keeping open lines of communication with every team member, from the newest hire to the most seasoned professional. We believe that everyone’s input is valuable, and we encourage our workers to share their thoughts openly. This level of respect and inclusion has been fundamental to our success in building a team we can rely on.
Final Thoughts
Hiring and retaining skilled labor is essential for any construction business, especially one that values quality and consistency. It takes time, effort, and resources to build a team you can trust, but the rewards are worth it. By prioritizing skill and character in hiring, offering competitive compensation, investing in training, creating a positive culture, providing growth opportunities, focusing on safety, and fostering open communication, you can build a loyal, skilled workforce that will be with you for the long haul.
At MRM Construction Services, we’ve learned that our team is our greatest asset. They’re the backbone of our business, and the foundation of every project we complete. Taking the time to build a team you can trust is one of the best investments any construction entrepreneur can make.