The construction industry is one filled with opportunities, whether you’re a graduate or looking for your very first apprenticeship. With so many openings for employment comes a lot of interest though – which means that you need to stand out from the crowd. So what could a job in construction offer you, and how can you stay one step ahead of the completion?
What Construction Offers
Firstly, why should you consider a career in construction? Well, it’s an industry that will enable you to help change the world. No, that’s not an overstatement! You could find yourself working on a project as iconic as The Shard, working on a sustainable energy site, or designing a whole new town. So whether it’s adding a beautiful new building to the skyline or helping to tackle climate change, you’ll be making a difference.
The Time is Right
The construction sector is one of the biggest in Britain, employing thousands of people and bringing in millions of pounds each year. However, it has been recently revealed that there is a skills shortage in the industry, with firms desperate to recruit tradespeople such as bricklayers, carpenters, electricians, tilers and plasterers, as well as site managers and supervisors. The industry’s recovery is dependent on jobs being filled by those with the appropriate skill sets. So, if you’ve got the knowledge or experience, there’s never been a better time to take advantage of the job opportunities in the sector.
Getting a Foot in the Door
So what is more valuable – skills or experience? Well, a combination of both is ideal. If you’re a graduate looking to get a job in construction, try to undertake a work placement while you are studying. This will show potential employers that you can put the knowledge you’ve gained during your studies to practical use. If you’re an apprentice, watch and learn as keenly as you can, as well as networking with others in the trade. You can then rely on them giving you great references to back up your skills – something that’s really important to employers.
Another String to your Bow
It’s not just about honing your craft though. Health and safety is an important aspect of working in the construction sector, and you need to know a lot about it if you’re going to succeed. Good knowledge of health and safety procedures will make your more attractive to employers, allowing you to move up the career ladder more quickly. It’s easier to educate yourself than it’s ever been, with courses available at the click of a button. Doing your construction health and safety training online allows you to study at home or on the go, and at a pace that suits you. If you’re as educated as fully as you can be on the subject, you’re already going to be at an advantage before you’ve even stepped into the interview room.
A new Career awaits!
If you think that you’ve got what it takes to make it in construction sector, there’s never been a better time than now to go for it. It doesn’t matter if you already have a trade or are just starting out; there are plenty of opportunities for those who are willing to learn. If that sounds like it could be you, then you could be just a few steps away from an exciting new career.
Tony Willson, the managing director of Helmsman Services Ltd, has huge knowledge about training and development strategy and tactics for all industries but especially in construction and care.
