There are several legitimate reasons for wanting to make a career change. If you’re suffering from job burnout and stress, then now might be an ideal time to consider your options. However, construction recruiters typically advise candidates against making career changes if their only motivation is money. Although it’s easy for candidates to be lured away for higher earnings, it’s important to remember that more money doesn’t necessarily lead to job satisfaction. That’s why self-awareness should always be the key component in your job search. Here are some suggested questions to consider which will help you make sound decisions when you’re thinking of making a move in your professional life.
• If I stay where I am, where could I be with the firm in 5 years?
You need to determine how far up the ranks you can advance with your current organization. If you’ve already been promoted as far as you can go, and you’re still not content, then pursuing a new construction career can help revitalize your motivation.
• Where do I want to be?
Compile a list of job titles that interest you. Since there’s a labor shortage, some positions are in more demand than others right now including estimators and many different roles in construction leadership.
• What companies out there can offer the type of career path or projects I’d like to work on?
Consider companies that work on the types of projects that interest you, or organizations that have upward mobility. Before considering a new position with a company, inquire about any upcoming projects within your own company that may be exciting and challenging to work on.
• What do I need to do from a learning and career-building perspective to realistically be a qualified candidate for that kind of job?
This is an important question, and one that requires some self-reflection. It’s vital to be honest with yourself about your current qualifications. Just because you think you can do it, it’s not realistic that someone will hire you to do it. You have to prove that you can do it with a clear track record of success in that area.
• Stay keen to industry changes.
Per industry reports, nonresidential construction activity is expected to jump 4% in 2018 and in 2019. This could translate to more than 22 million square feet of new office space being built within the next five years, not to mention the demand for more workers in this sector.
• Know your strengths and weaknesses.
Self-awareness is all about embracing not only your strengths, but also the areas of your career that you may be lacking in so that you are able to improve upon them.
• Do I need to stay in my current position longer?
If you’ve worked with your current company for 2 years, but only worked with a prior company for 18 months, then it may be better to stay put for another year or two to balance that out. Get more time and experience under your belt so you’re more marketable and not deemed a “job hopper.” Then you’ll make the 18-month job look like an exception, rather than the rule.
Construction executive searches are typically narrowed down to candidates who can prove their track records of success on significant projects. Some candidates just need more experience to advance up to those leadership positions. For others, the time may be perfect to make a change.
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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