For construction professionals, career planning is essential to reach the level you want to achieve. Yet, even if you’re very experienced, planning can also help you prepare for the next steps in your construction career and make the transition significantly less painful. The key is to know where you are now and what you want so that you can identify the type of work and environment that will be fulfilling, challenging, and rewarding.
Ask Questions
Every work place has its own culture. Job satisfaction is almost always higher when your values align with that culture. Most people think about their likes and dislikes when they contemplate career choices, but they don’t necessarily consider why they lean toward certain activities over others. It is easy to overlook the details, so it can be helpful to write some of this down. Explore how your interests relate to your personal values. Writing it down can clarify your motivations, making it clear what next steps are best for you on your career path.
How It Helps
One way career planning helps is that it makes it easier to decide on a course of action for training and education. You might like the idea of being a superintendent, but if you can’t see yourself working long hours or have trouble with stress-management, it might not be the best fit for you. Education can be expensive and time consuming, so it is best to know what you want before you commit to a program. Knowing more about what you are naturally good at, as well as areas that you want to expand and grow will help put you on a clear track more quickly. That way you don’t go down a path only to switch gears further down the road.
Cultivating Boundaries Online
Career planning also helps you know what to do (or not do) online. When you don’t have a clear sense of where you’re going in your construction career, it shows on your resume and professional profiles. Planning can help you establish clear boundaries online. It is surprising how many people lose out on job opportunities because they over share on social media. People forget that potential employers often check social media for red flags before making hiring decisions. Evaluating your strengths and weaknesses can also help you craft a custom resume that is not generic. Hiring managers see so many bland resumes and LinkedIn profiles that anything you can do to set yourself apart helps.
Build Relationships at Work
People who have a clear career plan think before they speak and are honest about their input. You can build better relationships with coworkers if you present yourself authentically. People want to spend time with others who are honest and real. Being authentic helps you to build a network of professionals you truly connect with. In time, you are able to help each other grow and succeed through mutually beneficial engagement.
Whether you are just starting out in your career or you’re looking for a change, career planning can make the process go a lot smoother. If you know what you want, it is a lot easier to figure out how to get it.
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.
Are you a hiring authority needed construction talent? Submit a search request today.
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