P: +61 3 9377 5800
F: +61 3 8651 2987
E: info@jvrecruitment.com.au
How to make your mark on commercial and infrastructure projects
Aaron Gould • Oct 07, 2020
With over 10 years in the construction industry, my team and I have placed tens of thousands of people into construction jobs in Victoria. The number one question we get asked here at JV Recruitment is “how do I get work on commercial or infrastructure sites?”
It’s not hard to see why as there are so many great projects currently underway or about to start. Metro tunnel, Westgate tunnel, level crossing removals, freeway extensions, road upgrades and multiple large commercial tower projects such as West End, Collins Arch and Melbourne Quarter. Despite the recent lockdown, it’s an exciting time to be working in construction!
Here are some of our suggestions on how to seek out construction job opportunities with new projects and/or companies.
Research the company or project
Find out everything you can about the companies or projects you want to work with/on. Who is the builder? Who are the subbies? Do you know anyone working for these companies?
Go to their website and look up whether they have any vacant roles.
More and more, companies will have an employment or jobs section on their website and may be looking for people right now.
Identify what stages are involved in the project and where it’s currently at
Try to find out what stage the build is at. Have they just won the tender? If they have started the ground works or if they have started the structure. Knowing all of this information gives you the best chance of getting a start on site.
Chances are, if a site has just finished a major stage a few weeks ago, then construction sites are less likely to want new workers on-site if they have just finished, right?
It can work the other way too. If a site is under pressure to complete a stage, it's likely they'll need additional labour at this time, so it may be your chance to get your ‘foot in the door.’
Follow the company or project on social media
Once you know who the company is behind the project, it’s time to follow them on social media and connect with the right people. Connecting on social media allows you to maintain your knowledge of the company and their projects. Many companies use Instagram, Facebook and Linkedin frequently as it's a great way for them to showcase their work.
Lastly, LinkedIn is a great, under-utilised tool by the majority of workers as it's often where you can find out exactly who you need to speak to. Site Managers, Superintendents, Project Managers, HR personnel etc, will all be on LinkedIn. Connect with them all but a hot tip here is to make sure you add a note explaining why you’d like to connect, to offer some context. Doing this is more likely to result in the person accepting your connection request.
Calls
Go ‘old school’ and simply Google the company you want to work for, call them and ask to speak to ‘someone about employment’ whether it's the Site Manager, someone in the construction team, or someone in HR. It’s simple, it won’t work all the time, but it will often produce results.
Often, construction businesses outsource their jobs to construction recruitment specialists like JV Recruitment, so endeavour to find out who they use to recruit staff, or who they’d recommend.
The benefits of connecting with a specialist agency like JV Recruitment is that we often have insight into projects that aren’t yet even advertised, so by building a relationship with our team, you’ll be ahead of the game!
You’ve done your research. It’s now time to reach out!
Once you know who has the work, and you know who the construction team is, it’s time to send them or their preferred construction recruitment agency
a message enquiring about work opportunities. This may seem a little foreign but, you miss 100% of the shots you don’t make.
Use all contact platforms that you have access to. Email or message through social media, HR or the site team. You don’t need to write an essay, but you do need to get the right information across in a concise message. Remember, those hiring a large number of construction staff for a project are likely to have limited time and attention!
Include a short paragraph highlighting who you are, what your experience is, tickets you have, and ask if there are any opportunities for employment.
Visit the site, but wear your PPE!
Go to the construction site, find the site office and ask to speak with someone. It really is that simple but a lot of people don’t do it as it can be uncomfortable.
Make sure you look presentable, wear your PPE and have a resume that you can drop off. This step will take some time as you’ll go from site to site but it definitely pays off.
Some sites will refer you to their preferred construction recruitment agency, so make sure you are ready to take down details of who you should contact.
Rinse and repeat
Repeat: such an important step. Do not expect to do all of this once and land the job of your dreams. It takes perseverance.
You need to keep casting that net far and wide, you need to keep your finger on the pulse as to what’s happening on-site and in the industry (even more so in a Covid year), and you need to make sure you’re speaking to the right people. Worst case scenario is that you make a lot of contacts that you may find useful in the future throughout your career progression.
The last thing I’ll leave you with is that this won’t work for every company or project. If it did, everyone would do it, but it’s what I’ve found works best most of the time. These steps need to be fluid and adaptable. Every company works differently and what works for commercial high-rise projects doesn’t always work for rail removal projects and vice versa. It’s all about patterns. You’ll discover what works for each sector and company. After that it’s all up to you.
Happy hunting.
If you are currently seeking to build out your construction workforce, or if you are looking for work in construction, manufacturing or engineering, reach out to Aaron Gould or the team
at JV Recruitment. Contact us by calling 9377 5800.
Are you a construction professional looking to take your career to new heights? Discover valuable advice and insights on career progression, upskilling, and networking that will help you build a thriving career in the construction industry. The construction industry offers a wide range of exciting career opportunities for professionals looking to make their mark. Whether you're just starting or seeking to advance your career, there are several key strategies you can employ to reach your goals. Develop Your Skills Investing in your professional development is crucial for career advancement in the construction industry. Identify areas where you can improve your technical skills or acquire new ones that are in high demand. Consider pursuing certifications, attending workshops, or enrolling in courses that will enhance your expertise and make you a more valuable asset to your team. Build Your Network Networking is a powerful tool for career advancement in any industry, and construction is no exception. Attend industry events , join professional organisations, and connect with colleagues and specialist construction recruitment professionals on LinkedIn. Building relationships with other professionals can lead to valuable opportunities, such as job openings , partnerships, or mentorship. Seek Out Mentorship Finding a mentor who has already achieved the level of success you aspire to can be incredibly beneficial for your career growth. A mentor can provide guidance, advice, and support as you navigate your career path. Look for experienced professionals within your organisation or industry who are willing to share their knowledge and insights. Take On New Challenges Demonstrating your ability to take on new challenges and responsibilities is key to advancing your career. Volunteer for projects that stretch your skills and offer to lead teams or propose innovative solutions to problems. By showing initiative and a willingness to learn, you'll position yourself as a valuable contributor to your organisation. Communicate Your Goals Make your career aspirations known to your supervisors and colleagues. Engage in regular c areer discussions with your manager and express your interest in taking on additional responsibilities or moving into leadership roles. By communicating your goals clearly, you'll be more likely to receive support and opportunities for growth. Stay Up to Date with Industry Trends The construction industry is constantly evolving, with new technologies, techniques, and regulations emerging all the time. To stay competitive and advance your career, it's essential to stay informed about the latest industry trends. Read industry publications, attend conferences , and participate in online forums to keep up-to-date and demonstrate your expertise. At JV Recruitment, we are committed to supporting construction professionals in achieving their career goals. Our team of experienced recruiters can provide valuable insights, job opportunities , and guidance to help you take your career to the next level. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your career growth in the construction industry.
The construction industry is a dynamic and challenging field that requires a diverse set of skills to succeed. While technical proficiency is undoubtedly necessary, the role of soft skills is often overlooked. In this blog post, we'll explore the crucial importance of soft skills in the construction industry and how they contribute to the success of construction professionals. Communication At JV Recruitment, we know communication is the foundation for any successful construction project. The roles we place emphasise: Active listening skills to understand the needs of site foremen, architects, and engineers and accurately translate that to tradespeople. Clearly conveying complex technical instructions, blueprints and project specs in ways that are easily understood, regardless of language barrier. Adaptability to communicate effectively across different audiences - from office managers focused on schedules and costs to hands-on construction crews in the field. Problem-Solving Construction is a field where unexpected issues are the norm, not the exception. Skilled problem-solvers are a must for the roles JV Recruitment fills. We seek candidates who can: 1. Quickly identify the root cause behind delays, code violations, material shortages or structural defects and implement a solution. 2. Think creatively to find workarounds like alternative materials, rerouting schedules or adjusting designs when roadblocks occur. 3. Make calculated decisions balancing quality, timelines and budgets to keep projects progressing despite changes and setbacks. Teamwork No construction job can be accomplished alone - our placements require collaboration across all levels of the project team. Top candidates demonstrate: 1. The ability to work cooperatively alongside project managers, engineers, inspectors, tradespeople and labourers towards shared milestones. 2. Resolving conflicts constructively through negotiation tactics, such as mediation of change orders or artistry disputes. 3. Flexibility to take on tasks outside their primary role, pivot from original plans and integrate seamlessly with new crew rotations. The Role of JV Recruitment At JV Recruitment, we understand the importance of soft skills in the construction industry. Our experienced team of recruiters is dedicated to helping construction professionals identify and cultivate the soft skills that will set them apart in their careers. Whether you're a seasoned construction professional looking to enhance your soft skills or a company seeking top talent with a potent combination of technical expertise and interpersonal abilities, JV Recruitment is here to support you. Browse our job openings or contact us to discuss your recruitment needs today.
The construction industry is known for demanding work schedules, long hours, and frequent job site travel. While these challenges are often inherent to the nature of the work, they can take a toll on the personal lives of construction professionals, leading to stress, burnout, and even decreased productivity if not managed. In this blog post, we'll explore the importance of work-life balance in the construction field and provide practical strategies for managing the unique challenges faced by industry professionals. The Importance of Work-Life Balance working in the Construction sector Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial for personal well-being and professional success. When individuals have the time and energy to nurture their relationships, pursue hobbies, and care for their physical and mental health, they are likelier to be happy, engaged, and productive in their work. On the other hand, a lack of work-life balance can lead to increased stress levels, decreased job satisfaction, and even higher turnover rates within the industry. Challenges in the Construction Industry The construction industry presents several unique challenges when it comes to achieving work-life balance: Long Hours Construction projects often require extended workdays, sometimes stretching into evenings and weekends to meet deadlines. Job Site Travel Many construction professionals must travel to various job sites, which can involve long commutes or extended periods away from home. Physically Demanding Work The physical nature of construction work can exhaust individuals, making it difficult to find the energy for personal activities and commitments. Seasonal Fluctuations The construction industry is subject to seasonal fluctuations, with busy periods often coinciding with summer when many people prefer to spend time with family and friends. Strategies for Achieving Work-Life Balance Despite these challenges, there are several strategies construction professionals can employ to improve their work-life balance: Set Boundaries Communicate your commitments and priorities to your employer and colleagues. Be proactive in setting boundaries around your work hours and availability, and carve out time for family, friends, and personal interests. Prioritise Self-Care Make time for activities that promote physical and mental well-being, such as exercise, meditation, hobbies, and socialising with loved ones. Taking care of yourself will help you maintain the energy and focus needed to excel in your work. Leverage Technology Utilise project management tools, video conferencing, and other technologies to streamline communication and minimise unnecessary travel. This can help you work more efficiently and create more time for personal pursuits. Negotiate Flexible Arrangements Discuss the possibility of flexible work arrangements with your employer, such as compressed workweeks, remote work options, or adjusted start and end times. Many companies are increasingly open to such arrangements as they recognise the benefits of a healthy work-life balance. Foster a Supportive Workplace Culture Encourage open communication and support among colleagues. Share strategies for managing stress and maintaining balance, and work together to create a culture that values hard work and personal well-being. The Role of Employers While individuals have a significant role in achieving work-life balance, employers in the construction industry are also responsible for supporting their employees. Companies can take several steps to promote a healthy work-life balance: Encourage Open Communication Create an environment where employees feel comfortable discussing their commitments and challenges. Listen to their concerns and work together to find solutions that benefit both the individual and the company. Offer Flexible Work Options Where possible, provide employees with flexible work arrangements, such as adjusted schedules, remote work options, or job sharing. This can help individuals better manage their personal and professional responsibilities. Prioritise Employee Well-Being Implement programs and initiatives that support employee well-being, such as wellness challenges, stress management workshops, and mental health resources. Demonstrate a genuine commitment to the health and happiness of your workforce. Lead by Example Ensure company leaders and managers model healthy work-life balance behaviours. When employees see their supervisors prioritising personal well-being, they are more likely to feel empowered to do the same. Achieving work-life balance in the construction industry is an ongoing process that requires effort and commitment from both individuals and employers. By implementing strategies such as setting boundaries, prioritising self-care, leveraging technology, negotiating flexible arrangements, and fostering a supportive workplace culture, construction professionals can successfully manage their industry's unique challenges and lead more fulfilling lives both on and off the job site. At JV Recruitment, we understand the importance of work-life balance in the construction industry. Our experienced team is dedicated to helping professionals find opportunities that align with their skills, goals, and personal commitments. If you're seeking a new role that supports a healthy work-life balance, we're here to help. Contact us today
JV is a specialist recruitment and traffic management agency. We’re experts across the following specialisations throughout Australia: Construction, Engineering, Facilities Management, Energy & Renewables, Business Support and Traffic Management.
Navigation
Quick links
Let’s Connect
JV Recruitment & JV Traffic | © All Rights Reserved 2021 | Made with 🤍 by Shazamme