The longer that you’re at a job, the easier it becomes to hit the cruise control and complete only the minimum duties required of you. Even though it can be tempting for construction professionals to bend the rules from time to time as you grow more comfortable with your boss, if you want to succeed in the construction industry, then you should correct these 3 mistakes you’re making with your boss.
Lacking Accountability
It’s easy to point fingers and create excuses when your work isn’t getting done on time, or in a satisfactory manner. But if you want to earn the trust of your leaders, then you should start holding yourself more accountable when on the job. Take direction so that your manager doesn’t have to give you constant reminders. And don’t pawn those responsibilities off on coworkers. If your work isn’t up to par for some reason, take personal accountability for it and make it right. Another one of the biggest pet peeves that leaders have is insubordination. Follow the appropriate chain of command when it comes to solving workplace problems.
Lacking Punctuality
Construction projects all have important deadlines that have to be met. Even though there are plenty of legitimate excuses for occasionally showing up late to work, habitually lacking punctuality will only make your boss look bad and put you on their radar in a negative way. Focus on getting on their radar in a positive way by arriving to work early on a regular basis to help them meet all those deadlines.
Lacking Authenticity
Successful construction careers are based on hard work, accountability, and follow-through, not sucking up to your boss. The most effective boss-employee relationships are those that are built on a solid foundation of mutual respect. Create a reputation based on merit that is earned from your hard work and dedication, not from stroking your boss’s ego.
Here’re some additional tips:
- Don’t make the mistake of thinking that you can do your boss’s job better than they can, even if you’re next in line for their position. Although it’s possible that you might be better than your boss in certain aspects, it’s also very likely that you aren’t even aware of all of the responsibilities that their job entails. Too many people view their boss as an enemy instead of an ally who can help them learn how to climb the corporate ladder.
- Don’t broadcast that you hate your job. Leaders are quick to punish anybody who brings down company morale. Instead, try to communicate negative issues with your boss and offer to provide potential solutions.
- Don’t debate your job description. If you truly want to advance in your field, then don’t be afraid to accept tasks that didn’t appear in your original job description. The most flexible and dedicated employees reach their goals in this industry.
How can we help you?
Searching for an opportunity in the construction industry? Contact The Birmingham Group today to discuss your career path or browse our open positions.
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