When examining mid-level construction management roles, ongoing concerns persist about labor shortages.
Not only is the workforce aging, resulting in a significant skills gap, but this shortage is occuring at a time when new roles are being created. For example, digital transformation requires the adoption of new technologies used within the construction process. The top managers of the future will need to implement essential tools for design, construction, and project management—all while tackling traditional responsibilities.
Moving forward, those in construction must prioritize hiring mid-level leaders who possess the skills of today and tomorrow. Those who do will achieve project success, time and time again.
The Mid-Level Talent Gap: An Industry Challenge
The construction industry continues to experience a significant talent gap, creating a domino effect.
While concerns surround supply chain challenges and pricing, the number one challenge remains: a shortage of workers across all roles, including managers. Construction companies are feeling the effects, reporting project delays and a lack of growth within their companies. Here are some of the top concerns and trends in more detail.
Aging Workforce and Retirement Trends
Nearly half of all construction workers are 45 years or older, indicating that a significant portion of workers are approaching retirement age. As a result, there is a low availability of seasoned site managers.Â
Decline in New Entrants
The construction industry has struggled to attract new workers, as jobs require long hours, seasonal work, and physically demanding tasks. Many younger professionals are prioritizing work-life balance and alternative career paths—and industry perceptions don’t help. Some believe the industry lacks job stability, while others think the construction industry lacks a good workplace culture.
Whether it’s a perceived discrimination against women or a lack of accessibility, these views are harming the industry, as well as young people’s opportunities to land a rewarding, successful career.
Consequences of the Talent Gap
As the talent gap widens in the construction industry, the consequences of shortages become more concerning, including the following:
- Project delays and budget due to insufficient leadership
- Quality control issues that increase the risk of errors
- Challenges in scaling operations, and as a result, succession planning
The Critical Role of Site Managers
Once a construction project is underway, each trade plays a critical role. However, it’s the construction managers who ensure sites are well-planned and organized, focusing on resource management, budgeting, scheduling, safety, quality control, communication, and the list goes on.
Site managers are essential for a variety of reasons. Let’s take a closer look at how these difference-makers impact multi-million-dollar projects every day.
Project Coordination and Leadership
- Overseeing daily operations to ensure project milestones are met
- Facilitating communication between clients and stakeholders
Quality Assurance and Safety Compliance
- Implementing and monitoring safety protocols
- Ensuring adherence to industry standards and regulations
Budget Management and Cost Control
- Tracking expenses and managing resources efficiently
- Identifying cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality
Strategies for Effective Mid-Level Management Hiring
The hiring process for any position can be tough. However, strong site managers are scarce, so you must ensure your tactics are well thought out. Develop comprehensive strategies to attract and screen candidates, followed by onboarding and retention tactics.
Here are some considerations:
- Strengthen employer branding by showcasing company culture, values, and a commitment to employee growth. Highlight successful projects and career advancement stories.
- Optimize recruitment processes by streamlining application and interview procedures to attract top talent. You can utilize industry-specific job boards and professional networks.
- Leverage specialized recruitment agencies, partnering with agencies experienced in construction management placements. That way, you enjoy the benefit of accessing pre-screened, job-ready candidates.
- Develop internal talent pipelines by implementing mentorship and leadership development programs to foster a culture of growth and advancement. Encourage cross-training and continuous professional development.
Retention Strategies for Mid-Level Managers
Whether you have a manager on your team you want to keep or are focusing on proactive strategies to ensure strong, sustainable teams, here are some top tips to retain mid-level managers.
- Competitive compensation and benefits matter, which is why you should offer salaries and benefits that reflect industry standards and employee expectations. Also, provide performance-based incentives and recognition programs
- Foster a positive work environment bypromoting work-life balance and offering flexible scheduling options. Encourage open communication and feedback mechanisms.
- Prioritize career advancement opportunities, creating pathways for promotion and professional growth. Offer support to individuals seeking to acquire additional certifications and education.
Next Steps
Having strong site managers is essential to achieving project (and company) success.
As an industry leader, now is the time to invest in effective recruitment and retention strategies. Unsure where to begin?
Explore MRINetwork talent solutions—a smarter approach to hiring.
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