Keeping Your Construction Company Going Strong

When business is humming, the last thought a business owner has is getting into a dry spell.  However, it doesn't take much to usher in a slow period for your business. Profits can begin to stagnate, therefore you need to be prepared for this inevitable trend by being ahead of the curve.  Here are tips to keep your company pushing forward.

Communication

Be sure you and your employees are on the same page.  Get feedback from them about working conditions, ideas they may have about projects, and encourage them to be creative.  Have weekly meetings, formal or informal, to help everyone feel as if they're a vital part of operations.  Don't always talk business, once in a while ask how their family is doing, or even just how their weekend was.  You'll be surprised how much more you'll get out of people when you show you care about them.

Accountability

Make sure your expectations are met.   Don't allow substandard performances to be the norm.  Bad habits are easy to take hold.  There needs to be accountability.  If you have employees who do not respect what you are trying to accomplish, they are probably not right for the job.  You can also incorporate incentives to get more out of your workforce including bonuses and paid time off.

Hire the Right People

Be sure to surround your operation with experienced people.  This may require you to pay more, but in the end it is well worth the investment when projects are done right the first time and completed on schedule. Evaluate your team.  Often an employee is struggling on the job because they're not doing what they do best.  Put people in the right roles that are right for them.

Cross Train

Having a flexible workforce is beneficial, especially when you find yourself short staffed.  Encourage all workers to train on other types of machines and tools.  When hiring, target candidates who already have wide ranging skills.

Use New Technology

New technology is consistently being introduced to the construction industry.  Although there is a learning curve, when implemented right, devices such as GPS and drones can dramatically improve productivity.  Don't hesitate to learn and use all the different types of tools available to you.

Keeping your construction company going strong requires being vigilant, proactive, and innovative.  Don't allow yourself to become comfortable just being satisfied with the status quo.