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Navigating the Construction Job Market: A Comprehensive Guide for Job Seekers
Navigating the Construction Job Market: A Comprehensive Guide for Job Seekers
The construction industry is a dynamic and ever-evolving field, offering a diverse range of career opportunities for individuals with a variety of skills and interests. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a recent graduate, there are numerous paths to success in this rewarding sector.Understanding the Construction LandscapeBefore embarking on your construction job search, it's crucial to gain a comprehensive understanding of the industry's landscape. Familiarise yourself with the different types of construction projects, from residential and commercial buildings to infrastructure projects and heavy engineering works. Research the major construction companies and organisations operating in your area, as well as the various trade unions and associations that represent construction workers.Identifying Your NicheThe construction industry encompasses a wide spectrum of roles and specialisations, catering to individuals with diverse skill sets and career aspirations. Consider your strengths, interests, and experience to identify a niche that aligns with your preferences. Do you thrive in fast-paced environments, working with your hands? Or are you drawn to the analytical side of construction, overseeing project management and planning?Developing Your Skills and ExpertiseWhether you're a seasoned professional or a newcomer to the industry, continuous learning and skill development are essential for career advancement in construction. Enrol in relevant training courses, workshops, and apprenticeships to enhance your technical skills and knowledge of industry standards and safety regulations. Consider pursuing certifications that demonstrate your expertise and commitment to professional development. While technical skills are crucial, soft skills like communication and teamwork are also increasingly valued. Enhance these skills to gain a competitive edge.Networking and Building ConnectionsNetworking is paramount in the construction industry, as it opens doors to new opportunities and allows you to gain valuable insights from experienced professionals. Attend industry events, conferences, and job fairs to connect with potential employers and fellow construction workers. Engage with industry groups and online forums to expand your network and stay updated on the latest trends and developments.Freelance and Contract Work Landscape:The gig economy has reached the construction industry. Freelance and contract work offer flexibility but lack the security of full-time employment. Understand the pros and cons before making decisions.Crafting a Compelling CV and Cover LetterYour resume and cover letter serve as your first impression, so make them count! Tailor your resume to each job application, highlighting relevant skills, experience, and certifications that align with the specific requirements of the position. Craft a compelling cover letter that showcases your passion for construction, your ability to contribute to the company's goals, and your eagerness to learn and grow.Preparing for InterviewsThe construction industry's interview process can be rigorous. Prepare thoroughly, conduct research, and be ready for practical assessments. Interviews often involve discussions of technical skills, project experience, and safety protocols. Be prepared to answer questions about your knowledge of specific construction methods, tools, and equipment. Practice common interview questions and rehearse your responses to project-related scenarios. Demonstrate your enthusiasm and your ability to work effectively in a team environment.Embracing Continuous Learning and GrowthThe construction industry is constantly evolving, with new technologies and techniques emerging at a rapid pace. Embrace a mindset of continuous learning and stay abreast of industry trends and advancements. Attend training courses, workshops, and seminars to expand your knowledge and skillset. Actively seek mentorship from experienced professionals in your field, and don't hesitate to ask questions and seek guidance. For example, with a focus on sustainability this year, there's a growing demand for professionals in green construction. Certifications like LEED can enhance your marketability.Diversity and Inclusion in Construction:Although traditionally male-dominated, the industry is shifting towards diversity and inclusion. Several organisations and government policies in Ireland are working towards promoting diversity and inclusion in the construction sector, including the Construction Industry Federation and the Department for Business, Energy, and Industrial Strategy's (BEIS) Construction Industry Diversity Strategy.Additional Tips for Success in the Construction Job Market· Highlight your safety awareness. Safety is paramount in the construction industry. Emphasize your understanding of safety protocols and your commitment to working in a safe and responsible manner.· Demonstrate your problem-solving skills. Construction often presents unexpected challenges and requires quick thinking and adaptability. Showcase your ability to analyse situations, identify solutions, and implement effective solutions.· Emphasise your teamwork skills. Collaboration is essential for success in the construction industry. Highlight your ability to work effectively with others, communicate clearly, and contribute to a positive and productive team environment.· Stay up to date with industry regulations. Construction projects are subject to a variety of regulations and standards. Stay informed about relevant regulations and demonstrate your commitment to adhering to industry-wide standards. Recommended Online Courses for Career Progression:1. QA Level 5 Diploma in Construction Project Management - This online course will help you gain an in-depth understanding of construction project management principles, techniques, and tools.2. Code 360 Online Building and Construction Technology Course - This online course covers a range of topics such as building design and analysis, construction systems and technologies, and sustainable building practices.3. Online CE CPD course for Engineers - This course will help you keep up to date with the latest developments in the engineering industry, including new codes, standards, and technologies.The construction job market is complex, influenced by economic conditions, technology, and social trends. Proactive steps, including upskilling, networking, and leveraging industry resources, improve your chances of success. Despite the challenges, with the right strategy, you can build a fulfilling career in construction.Best of luck with your construction job search! If you'd like to discuss a new role, or just need advice on your journey please feel free to contact our experienced construction recruitment team at construction@sigmar.ie or call 014744600 for a confidential discussion.
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Trends in Construction Recruitment
Trends in Construction Recruitment
Trends in Construction Recruitment (Ireland):Marcel Skolimowski and Aileen O Boyle from our Technical team discuss:- COVID-19 effects on industry dynamics- 2023? Is that when construction will be fully back- Can offsite work increase in this sector?- Temps & contractors as a current industry trends View our latest Construction Jobs
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Keeping Company Culture Alive Across a Remote Workforce
Keeping Company Culture Alive Across a Remote Workforce
With the majority of our teams now working remotely, the challenges of creating and maintaining company culture are evident. Technology can’t replace what the workplace provides: community, camaraderie and shared purpose. Now, more than ever, maintaining culture matters. Here are some ideas on instilling company culture across remote employees: 1. Connect Back to Your Values & Purpose For many of our staff currently, working remotely has been unexpected and in the face of a global health crisis, many are at a loss for what to do. For some work may feel insignificant now, so as their manager this is your time to help employees find meaning and reconnect back to your company’s values and purpose. While you may not be a company at the frontline, you still have a positive impact on people’s lives. Remind your employees of how their contributions add up to something much bigger and that we are all in this together! 2. Communication is Key Communication within divisions, one to one, social gatherings, company updates, all need to be consistent. This maintains relationships and promotes inclusivity. Create an open and transparent communication policy. This allows people to be themselves and feel comfortable reaching out via online chat platforms. Set expectations on communication methods. Where do meetings take place? What tool is for social sharing? Finally, you need to put an emphasis on positivity in your written communication. With the absence of face to face interactions in virtual conversations, it is easy for tone to be interpreted negatively so you need to be extra careful to be positive. 3. Mimic the Water Cooler Effect As mentioned, many of our staff are currently missing the day-to-day work interactions they have with their colleagues. Therefore, assign a platform where team members can live chat, share files, post photos and collaborate throughout the day to mimic everyday office life. This can be where some of the best ideas and knowledge can be shared yet at the same time promotes inclusivity and the sense of “team”. 4. Trust In a remote team, there aren't any silly rules about being in your seat during certain hours of the day. This means at the end of the week you either have something to show for your week or not. This means you trust that your teammates are getting something done. But also, that your teammates trust you. To earn that trust you want to make sure you have something to show for your work each week. 5. Focus on Health & Wellbeing In the midst of a global pandemic, now is not the time to forget about your wellness programme when stress and anxiety is elevated. Make sure to check in with remote employees that they are taking breaks, finishing on time, and are maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Make online workouts available to your employees allowing them to take part in physical activity. Perhaps set a company challenge such as a step challenge to get employees engaged in physical activity and as a plus networking with colleagues. For those struggling with sleep or anxiety, provide access to meditation or breathing courses. And to look after financial wellbeing consider organising webinars on topics such as managing a household budget, how your pension works, setting financial goals etc. 6. Rituals and Traditions Creating traditions with your team members, regardless of how often they happen, helps keep teams cohesive and encourages open communication and trust. Before you were thrown into the digital remote working world, undoubtedly you had traditions in place for how promotions, achievements and even birthdays were recognised. To keep spirits up, it’s crucial you keep celebrating these milestones. 7. Ask for Feedback Finally, the introduction to remote working has been unprecedented for many of us. Therefore, ask employees for honest feedback and suggestions. Use a pulse survey to get real data on this. "You don’t need everyone physically together to create a strong culture. The best cultures derive from actions people actually take.” Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson, Authors of Remote
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Online Interview Advice
Online Interview Advice
Rossa Mullally spoke to Jennifer Zamperelli on 2FM recently to share his tips and advice for video interviews...
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If COVID-19 Moved Your Job Interview to Video, Here’s How to Prepare
If COVID-19 Moved Your Job Interview to Video, Here’s How to Prepare
With the number of companies around the globe asking their employees to stay safe and work from home increasingly every day due to the COVID-19 pandemic, in-person interviews are being replaced with video interviews via platforms such as Hinterview, Microsoft Teams, Zoom etc. For some this is a new experience so here are our top 5 tips to help you get prepared. 1. Check Your Tech As mentioned, there are a variety of video interview platforms, many of which you may be familiar with such as Google Hangouts or Skype. While you might think you are adept at using such platforms, don’t rest on your laurels. When you receive the link for the platform from your potential employer - test it out! Familiarise yourself with the platform and do a test call with a family member or friend in advance. Make sure you have a strong internet connection so there are no delays and that your camera and microphone are working perfectly. Finally make sure you are plugged into a power source; interviews can overrun so don’t be relying on the battery to see you through. 2. Set the Scene You’ve heard it before, and you’ll hear it again but finding a suitable environment is so important in preparing for your video interview. Find a quiet, private space to do the interview, somewhere you can control the noise pollution and keep it to a minimum. After that choose, your backdrop wisely. You don’t want potential employers to see your cluttered bedroom and dirty washing in the background, especially after listing ‘organisational skills’ as one of your top skills on your CV. Lighting is key and is often forgotten about until the time of the interview. For the best lighting, sit facing an open window, similar to how you would face the light source or sun for photgraphs. If there is no natural light available to you at the time, use floor and desk lamps to brighten up your environment and ensure your interviewer can see you clearly. 3. Dress to Impress Although your employer won’t see you face to face, it is still important to dress appropriately. It is always a good idea to investigate the company’s dress code and go from there. You should wear professional, interview-appropriate clothes that you feel comfortable in. If you are comfortable in what you are wearing, it will help you stay relaxed and at ease during your interview. Avoid plaids and stripes as these can cause distractions on the camera and make sure you avoid wearing the same colour as your chosen background. 4. Body Language Speaks A Thousand Words It’s important to have good eye-contact in any interview you attend, this is no different for a video interview. To maintain good eye contact during your interview, place your laptop, webcam or device at eye level. If your camera is too low or too high, it can appear to your employer that you are looking down or away. It is also important to look into the camera when speaking. Putting a coloured sticker or something noticeable beside the camera might help remind you to speak into the camera instead of the screen. Some gestures that often go unnoticed in face to face interviews, can be more eye-catching through video, for example twirling hair, touching your face or fidgeting with your fingers. Practicing interviews and video calls with friends or family will help you identify any nervous habits you may have. During the interview, it is important to sit upright with your back straight. Although the interviewer cannot see your lower body, it’s important to have two feet flat on the floor in order to maintain an upright position. Crossing your legs can lead to slouching and can mess with your on-camera framing. 5. Prepare to Win You want to make a great first impression, leaving the interviewer with the desire to move you to the next round or hire you and the key to achieving this is to be prepared. From software to attire, eye contact to setting, it’s essential to prepare in every aspect for your interview. Have a copy of your CV nearby, but do not get caught reading off it during your interview, keep it nearby as a reference for yourself. Have a pen and paper at your desk should you need it to avoid any disruptions during the interview. And don’t forget to nod, smile and engage with your interviewer - you might not be sitting across from each other, but they can still see you! Finally, be patient with the recruitment process. As the COVID-19 outbreak evolves, recruitment processes may take longer than normal. You may find there will be more rounds in a process and/or it may take longer to receive feedback. If you would like to discuss anything in this article, or have a confidential career chat, please get in touch on 01 4744600 or email info@sigmar.ie