Within the construction industry there are opportunities for you to advance your position and take on new and challenging roles. But how do you put your best foot forward and ensure that you’re in a prime position to advance when the time is right? Here are nine tips to advance your career from where you are in your current construction job.

1. Have a “Can-Do” Attitude

Maintaining a positive, motivated attitude shows your team that you are ready to do what it takes to get the job done. It demonstrates that you’re driven, and you go above and beyond what is expected.

2. Stay as Long as it Takes

Get to the job early and stay late. This is another way to show that you are ready to succeed in reaching the company’s goals. When you arrive early, you’re demonstrating that you’re a team player and you’re dedicated to your work.

3. Focus on Quality

Strive for the highest quality work you can achieve. Don’t fall short or skip steps because that will likely catch up with you and reflect poorly on your reputation.

4. Stay on Time and on Budget

When the timeline and budget are set it’s essential that you keep to those commitments. Keeping your timeline and budget are great ways to track and measure your success. It sets a high standard and lets your team know that you take the position seriously.

5. Be Obsessed with Safety

Safety is critical in the construction industry. Every construction job needs workers who are focused on safety. Exceed your safety standards and goals and you’ll gain the respect of your superiors and your team.

6. Build Relationships in the Construction Industry

Establish relationships with others in the industry. Connect with architects and subs. Network and stay in the loop with those in your field of work.

7. Expand Your Responsibility

Take on added responsibilities even though it may mean breaking out of your comfort zone. It may be stressful, especially if you don’t feel like you’re an expert at what you’re taking on. If you’re not sure, do some research and go the extra mile to get it right instead of letting something fall apart.

8. Innovate

Be open to new ideas. Don’t get stuck in your old ways, even if they work. Be open to new tools and methods; they may be more effective and it shows that you’re flexible and willing to grow.

9. Be a Leader & Team Player

Be a team player and help others succeed. There’s enough to go around, so maintain a generous and helpful attitude. Leadership requires understanding and patience – great soft skills to cultivate in your construction job.

Bonus Tips

And of course, here are a few things to avoid.

  • Don’t be hardheaded or petty; a good attitude goes a long way on the job site.
  • Avoid backstabbing your teammates; be a team player.
  • Don’t be selfish or self-absorbed; a good leader looks out for the team.
  • Don’t let things slide; quality and details are important.
  • Don’t gossip or badmouth other teammates or other companies.

If you cultivate some good work habits like being a team player and taking on new challenges – you’re putting yourself on track to advance to the next stage in your career. Staying on time and on budget gives you trackable success markers that show you’re serious about what you do. In addition, if you avoid some of the pitfalls such as gossiping or ignoring the details, you’re setting a high standard for yourself and establishing a good reputation that will take you far in this industry.

Are you ready to land your dream construction job?

If you are searching for an opportunity in the construction industry, contact The Birmingham Group today to discuss your career path. Or browse our current open positions.