Tips for Finding Skilled Construction Workers in Australia

JV Recruitment • Apr 10, 2023

In Australia this year, there'll be more than 100,000 construction industry vacancies, according to the 2022 Arcadis Construction Costs Index Report. With private and public entities projected to deliver over $50 billion worth of capital infrastructure in the next five years, there is stiff competition to find the right construction talent. 


In the face of this labour shortage and the associated challenges, those who can transform their recruitment strategy to align with a new way of thinking will be the pacesetters. We believe the answer lies in a three-pronged approach that we’re going to explore in this article. Cover these bases, and you'll attract high-calibre talent.

A Living, Breathing Employee Value Proposition

Much of the latest research indicates that without a living, breathing Employee Value Proposition (EVP) – one that exists on paper and is evident within day-to-day activities – you’ll have little chance of attracting quality construction workers to your team.


The findings of the recent What Workers Want report support the proposition that an EVP is essential to successful recruitment. The report offers excellent insights into employee priorities and suggests that if your EVP is tethered to an experience-based ethos, you’re on the right track.

  • Priority one: Working alongside good co-workers
  • Priority two: Work-life balance
  • Priority three: A competitive salary


So, how do you ensure your EVP speaks to these priorities?


Where possible, tailor your EVP to include details of what you offer your current team. Include all upskilling and growth opportunities and any development initiatives. If you offer career mobility in-house, make this apparent. When a candidate can see you invest in your people, they’ll know they’re joining a well-formed group and working alongside a team of skilled co-workers.


Ensure your company has a structured and progressive well-being policy in place. If you frame contracts around the lifestyle needs of your team, make this evident. Anything your organisation does to look after your people outside their immediate workplace is a compelling selling point. 


When it comes to remuneration, be competitive! If you offer bonus schemes or incentives, all the better. Do you offer periodic pay reviews? If so, be sure to share this. Anything that demonstrates the potential to increase earnings will catch the eye of any ambitious construction professional. 


Your EVP is one of your most powerful recruitment tools in today’s competitive environment. Ensuring it aligns with employees priorities will put your company on the map as an employer of choice!

Invest in Your Current Workforce

Your current workforce is one of your most powerful recruitment tools. Where you find a thriving and motivated group of employees, you find a company worth working for. 


Training and upskilling are two of the most valuable ways to invest in your current workforce. Not only will it ensure your company keeps pace with advancements in the industry, but it’ll help to establish a robust company culture. This culture will be one that nurtures an engaged, proactive and productive group of employees, and captures the attention of like-minded candidates.


Of the many benefits of training and upskilling your current workforce, those that will appeal to a prospective employee include:

  • A top-line internal skill set and knowledge base
  • Boosted team (and company) performance 
  • An experienced team capable of taking on greater responsibilities
  • A loyal and long-serving workforce 
  • Motivated employees who enjoy learning and the growth that results


Never underestimate the power of your people or fail to consider how their experience of working for you could influence – for better or worse – your ability to attract skilled talent.

An Expansive Recruitment Strategy

When times get tough, those who get creative and think outside the box usually come up trumps!


In today’s candidate-led job market, this is the approach you should apply to your recruitment strategy. With so many resources available, we suggest you put them all to work for you.


Your People

Encourage your existing team to share job vacancies with their network. This is a one-foot-in-the-door approach that costs you nothing and establishes immediate trust.


Social Media

Social media is a critical component of a modern recruitment strategy. If you don’t have the skills in-house to utilise these platforms for this purpose, outsource to someone who does. 


Trade Shows and Expos

If time and budget allow, attending events helps to promote your brand. It also enables people to engage with your company representatives in a positive and informal way. In this setting, have your reps discuss career opportunities with your visitors and collect a database of those who express interest.


Partner with Local Education Providers

Partner with local education providers to get your name in front of the next generation of skilled construction professionals. Offer internships, placement opportunities and mentoring where applicable. This will establish your company as an ideal option for a job-ready graduate.

Partner with a Specialist Recruitment Agency


Of course, if you want to rise above the competition and attract the attention of the sector's best talent, working alongside a specialist recruitment agency is key. This is an effective ways to ensure you hit the top notes and speak directly to your target market. 

Your Recruitment Strategy

Expanding your thinking and recruitment strategy beyond traditional confines will position your company as dynamic and progressive. In today’s competitive employment market, these are compelling attributes to lead with.


Our experienced specialists know the industry and its stakeholders inside and out. We use our insights to help you hire construction workers who are a good fit for your company and will add significant value to your team. What's more, we take all the guesswork out of the process, which is a huge timesaver for you!


We’ve got our finger on the pulse of all things construction recruitment in Australia. Give the JV Team a call today!

How to Advance Your Career in the Construction Industry

15 Apr, 2024
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 Importance of Soft Skills in the Construction Industry

27 Mar, 2024
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.

Achieving Work-Life Balance in the Construction Industry: Strategies for Success

27 Mar, 2024
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
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