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Digital innovations are doing a lot to make HVAC systems more efficient, and thankfully more convenient and comfortable too!! Here are some of the solutions that have been introduced recently due to these new technologies:

Nationwide, only about 7% of the trades are made up of women, and in Portland, OR, it’s only slightly higher at 9%. Many women haven’t traditionally considered a job in the trades, largely because there’s not a lot of examples in popular culture that depict female construction workers, truck drivers, and other blue collar jobs. … Continue reading “Why Women Should Consider The Trades”

Yes, the labor gap might be making it difficult for you to hire talent. But there are lots of skilled craftsmen out there – we see them every day! That’s why we encourage you to examine the many other reasons why you haven’t been able to hire top talent. And the biggest obstacle to hiring … Continue reading “The Secret To Hiring The Best Craftsmen”

Showing that you’re confident and comfortable with yourself is one of the best skills in life, whether you’re looking for a job, date, or success of any kind. Confidence really does start on the inside, so start by being self-aware and unafraid to simply be the man that you are. However, body language can help … Continue reading “Show Your Confidence With Body Language”

Recent innovations and use of data has done a lot to make construction more efficient. New technologies like modular building, augmented reality, robots, drones, and artificial intelligence have helped to inspire new construction methods, many of which have resulted in energy savings as well! Here are some of the newest smart home solutions trending, that … Continue reading “New Trends for Smart Homes & Buildings”

If you’ve been working in an office and dreaming of getting your hands dirty, you’re not alone! Even though white collar work has been pushed hard in schools over the last 20 years, more workers are realizing that blue collar jobs are just as rewarding. If you’ve been wondering about starting or changing to a … Continue reading “5 Reasons Why You Want To Be A Craftsman”

According to recent reports from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there’s been a decline in the amount of employer-reported workplace injuries and illnesses in 2017, and fatal injuries have also declined almost a whole percentage point from the year prior. So the question is, are work sites really getting safer, and why? Here’s some things … Continue reading “Are Job Sites Getting Safer?”

There are some really powerful and innovative power tools that’ve been recently released. Here are some to check out, that we were impressed with:

Good employee training is becoming more and more crucial at a time when the labor market is tightening, and many skills taught might not even be applicable or needed in the near future. The skills gap is quickly changing due to the rise of digital automation and innovation!

If you’ve thought about going into the trades, becoming a welder is a lucrative career. A welder generally cuts or fuses together metal through the use of various machines that create intense heat – often handheld. They may also smooth and polish the metal surfaces once they’ve been welded together.

The labor gap in the trades continues to have more and more impact in market! With fewer and fewer young people going into the industry, it’s created a high demand that’s pushing the average pay up. In fact a 2017 study from the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce said that 3,477,000 people … Continue reading “New Effects Of Tighter Labor Force”

While more and more of the workforce is becoming prepared to work in a white collar office job, there is an ever-increasing need for the blue collar worker in the trades. White collar work has been pushed hard in schools over the last 20 years! Because of that, along with a building boom and retiring … Continue reading “How Get A Career In The Trades”

Construction using prefabrication and modularization means that some or most of the construction is done in a factory or warehouse away from the construction site, where several parts are manufactured or built simultaneously. With modularization, the building parts are largely assembled off-site, whereas with prefabrication the creation of prefabricated panels in a factory or warehouse … Continue reading “Why Modularization and Prefabrication Is On The Rise”

Most craftsmen have some scrap wood hanging around in their garage. Don’t take it to the dump! There are plenty of great projects you can tackle to make your life easier at home, or perhaps as a great gift. Next time you have a few hours on the weekend, antsy for something to do with … Continue reading “Five Fun Scrap Wood Weekend Projects”

According to the recent CTBUH Tall Trends Report for 2018, it was a record year for buildings built over 200 meters with 148 of them completed this past year! This barely beats the 2017 record of 147, and continues a decade-long trend. This trend is largely due to the need for space in highly populated … Continue reading “2018: A Record Year of Skyscrapers Built”

If you’re an information or technology geek, this is a great time to apply your skills in a construction industry career. With the expected growth of the industry over the next decade, combined with the labor gap, we need good craftsmen!

BIM or Building Information Modeling is the process of managing, designing, and developing a building project with one digital system that all members of the team can access, rather than as a separate set of pencil, paper, and complex drawings. It makes sense that the construction industry has been embracing BIM, and in fact 88% … Continue reading “The Future of Construction: Overview of BIM”

Any good craftsman has a variety of staplers in their tool box. The main three categories of staplers – manual, electric, and pneumatic – are divided by power source, which gives them different advantages based on the project or application. Here’s some of the best staplers you can use right now:

GPS tracking has been around for awhile, but is being used in the construction industry in new and creative ways. Here are some of the most popular and practical applications that are being implemented right now:

A lot of us have heard of how 3-D Printing and Robotics are changing the future of construction, and we are excited about how those innovations are making an impact already. However, there are even more up-and-coming new technologies that have some significant benefits, including big cost savings, energy conservation, and helping the environment. Here … Continue reading “Futuristic Construction Materials”

Construction projects have the unfortunate reputation of taking up to twice as long and costing twice as much as projected. While this is understandable due to the nature of changing material costs and unforeseen site issues, it can severely hurt your reputation and bottom line! Luckily, there are some precautions you can take that will … Continue reading “Keep Your Next Construction Project On Time and In Budget”

At Madden, many of our Craftsmen are at the top of their game, with talents that are so unique and high quality that they’re practically an art form. If you’re new to the trades, you might be wonder how you can become that good. The answer is right now! The primary differences between amateurs and … Continue reading “The Difference Between Amateur & Professional Craftsmen”

Big building companies see off-site construction as an important trend, shown by recent investments in US factory-built homes by some pretty big names in the industry, such as Louisiana-Pacific, Lennar, and Certainteed. Here are some of the big reasons why builders are beginning to utilize off-site construction in one form or another:

There’s not a better time to get into construction! The industry is expected to keep growing by 13% during the next 7 years, and we already have a significant shortage of craftsmen. If you’ve been thinking about getting into the industry, you may be wondering which positions are in demand.

Meetings get a bad rep, but they can be very advantageous to your organization. When your meetings are swift and expedient, it’ll trickle down to better results outside the meeting; increasing productivity, encouraging autonomy, and increasing accountability. Remember, your team’s time is worth money for your organization, and you want to use it as efficiently … Continue reading “Tips for Leading a Better Meeting”

Craftsmen aren’t known for being ordinary, and we know you definitely have some unique and valuable talents in the trades! And when you have that extra edge, it helps you perform better at your current job, and gives you confidence if you’re looking to stand out during a new job search. Here’s some ways to … Continue reading “How to Go From Ordinary to Extraordinary”

With craftsmen in high demand, it may feel like you can’t afford to fire anyone on your team. They’re going to be difficult to replace, and you’ve probably spent some time and money training and coaching them. However, you may miss a huge opportunity if you do nothing. An employee with negative attitude can be … Continue reading “How to Decide if it’s Time to Fire and Rehire”

If you’re feeling bored and complacent, it might be time to get a new job. Craftsmen are in demand, so now is definitely a good time to see what other options are available to you, if that’s what you decide. You may be hesitant if you’re not completely miserable, because it’s human nature to stay … Continue reading “How to Decide if it’s Time to Get a New Job”

Younger generations are generally being swayed away from the trades, and encouraged to go to college instead. However, the good news for us is that the current Millennial candidates aren’t as motivated by stability or money, as in generations past, because they’re more interested in a job that fits their desired lifestyle. A 2016 study … Continue reading “How to Attract Younger Craftsmen”

Every good craftsman needs a good pair of brown boots! The classic brown boot pairs well with jeans or dressed up with a suit. Depending upon your industry specialty, they can go from the job site to wearing them out around town. But there’s no need to own just one pair! Add another pair or … Continue reading “The Men’s Classic Brown Leather Boot”

The summer months are usually busy for craftsmen in the Pacific Northwest, because we tend to schedule a lot of building projects when the weather is good. As that starts to slow down in the later months of fall, this is an ideal time for your craftsmen (and you!) to take a vacation – especially … Continue reading “Why You Should Force Your Craftsmen to Go On Vacation!”

In this job market where craftsmen are in high demand, it can feel a little like you don’t need to make as much of an effort at that next job interview. Let’s face it, if you’ve made it to interview stage, you probably already meet their minimum qualifications. You could probably wing it and find … Continue reading “How to Actually Impress Them in an Interview”

Building construction is on the rise and good craftsmen are becoming more rare, so it can be difficult to find the time to mentor young craftsmen. On the other hand, mentorship could make a significant dent in the widening labor gap, and the benefits for the industry and your organization could largely outweigh the time … Continue reading “Why You Should Be A Mentor to other Craftsmen”

‘Blue-collar’ work wear such as Carhartt pants have actually become fashionable street wear, especially among millennials. The brand has received so much popularity that it’s common to see a 20-something year old sport a Carhartt beanie in any metropolis area!

It’s no secret that obesity has become common in the United States, especially among children. Estimates show that around one-third of American children are overweight.

In a recent study done by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, it’s shown that the number of gig workers is at 10.1%, which is actually down from 2005 when companies like Uber and AirBnB weren’t even in business!

If you are a valuable employee and have come to the conclusion that your level of contribution isn’t being compensated enough, then it may be time to ask for a raise. In many cases, they won’t offer it up unless it’s annual review time. So, you’ll need to be the one to initiate it. You’ll … Continue reading “How to Ask for a Pay Raise”

With the skills gap, there’s already a lot of competition for the most talented craftsmen available. In this market and economy, you need to do everything you can to attract and keep them. Here are some reasons why your company might be struggling to hire the best:

Experts predict that the future workforce is going to be a completely different landscape. And while the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that unemployment will continue fall in the next year, they also forecast over 20 million new jobs created by the year 2020. It seems that there will simply be more jobs available than … Continue reading “The Future of Oregon’s Workforce”

We know you take pride in anything you make, which is great news for your taste buds! Most craftsmen have a huge advantage in making a more delicious plate of nachos, because even the best cook probably doesn’t have your building skills. Here’s how to use that advantage to construct the most epic nachos ever:

We know that in order to be the leading industrial staffing company in the Northwest, we must keep strong relationships with clients like you, and our employees. That’s why we developed the Madden Appreciation Program as one way to recognize and reward our employees’ skills and contributions. In this program we offer points to employees … Continue reading “Ways To Show Your Employees Appreciation”

While most hiring managers probably won’t care if you hand write a thank you note, they do want to know that you are the type of employee that will follow-up and complete a job properly. That’s why we do encourage a brief thank you note, emailed within 24 hours after any job interview. Here’s the … Continue reading “Breaking Down A Job Interview Thank You Note”

Madden helps you find the best craftsmen, so that you can skip all the pre-screening, personal interviews, reference checks, and more, and get on to building something quick. However, you may not realize all the other extras you have available to you, just from being a client of ours. Beyond recruiting, we also offer many … Continue reading “Don’t Have a Human Resources Department? Madden Can Help”

Most of us know someone whose been in the military, and have noticed some of the common traits from their training that makes them responsible friends and families. These same attributes make them great employees too, including trust, dependability, and efficiency. The construction industry, in particular, is a great one for veterans to transition into … Continue reading “Best Jobs for Veterans Right Now”

Construction is one of the most dangerous occupations in the world, so we’re always keeping an ear out for new innovations that can make job sites safer. In many cases, using robots is a great solution to this because it can be more efficient and also less risky. With the labor shortage, robots are even … Continue reading “Robotics in Construction”

The quintessential craftsman has an appreciation for excellence and precision in his work. And in this hurried internet age, the pursuit of mastering and honing a craft has become a rare endeavor. Because of that, we at Madden have noticed a growing demand for the men and women who never stop striving to get better … Continue reading “The Modern Craftsman”

Craftsmen usually take really great care of their work tools, but we’re not always known for keeping our own personal home tools in tip top shape. Summer’s in full swing in the Pacific Northwest, so now’s the time to give a little TLC to the main 5 tools that you’re most likely using during the … Continue reading “The 5 Tools You Gotta Get in Shape for Summer”

We all know that the smaller pool of workers in our industry has made it difficult to hire quality craftsmen. And unfortunately, the research shows that the labor shortage is only getting worse! It doesn’t help that the school shop department is a thing of the past, and more and more students are being encouraged … Continue reading “New Ways to Build a Highly-Skilled Team”

In our work, it’s important to protect our hands. And although there isn’t a pair of gloves that will keep you from every possible injury, you can certainly reduce your risks with the proper choice. The key to pick the gloves based what injury you are shielding your hands from, due to the environment and … Continue reading “Protect Your Hands With The Right Gloves”

If you use sandpaper on the job, you probably know that it’s name is pretty deceptive. That’s because it’s made with neither sand nor paper! The ‘sand’ grit used for the abrasive is typically fine grain of aluminum oxide or garnet, and it’s applied to a backing ‘paper’ that’s usually some sort of thin cloth, … Continue reading “The Best Sand in the Pacific Northwest”

Construction is one of the most dangerous occupations in the world, so we’re always keeping an ear out for new innovations that can make job sites safer. Here’s some amazing new technology that’s being developed that foster safety in a completely new way.

Congratulations! You just got a promotion, or maybe you started your own business. And all of a sudden, you find yourself in charge of supervising close friends and peers. It’s a tricky position to be in, and you’ll likely need to navigate it carefully. The good news is that managing friends is one of the … Continue reading “How To Manage Friends Working For You”

There are 6.2 million unfilled job openings in America, which is up from 5.6 million in 2016. Companies can’t find workers that have the skills they need to hire for – in fact 45% of small businesses were unable to find qualified candidates to fill a job opening last year. And, 60% of all employers … Continue reading “A Solution for The Skills Gap”

Did you ever have the chance to watch your grandfather give himself a shave? It seemed like a ceremonious event back then – they really knew how to make it into an art. Thankfully, some of the traditional methods of shaving are making a comeback. And if you want to look and feel particularly splendid … Continue reading “How To Give Yourself a Classic Shave Like Grandpa Did”

More and more workers are stressed out, burned out, and wiped out. And it’s not just because of on-the-job responsibilities. It’s because of the job PLUS everything else in their life that piles up and begins to wear on their health. That’s why there’s been a shift for employers to look beyond encouraging their workers … Continue reading “The New Way to Hold on to Good People”

Here at Madden, we notice that when craftsmen are really out hustling on a job search, there can be a lot of options that suddenly open at once. This is actually a great scenario, because when you have more options, you have more opportunities to pick from. If you only have one option, then you … Continue reading “How to Give Yourself More Options”

The cold and rain can make regular construction work a lot more difficult. Especially because weather can be unpredictable here in the Pacific Northwest. Already this year we’ve had both some unusually warm temperatures, as well as snow. That’s why preparation is key! Knowing that it could continue to be cold, and likely wet, into … Continue reading “Wet Weather Safety Tips”

Secret Vodka Bottle Just last year, a gold vodka bottle, meant to be a collector’s secret, was found near a construction site in Charlottenlund – a Danish suburb just north of Copenhagen. It was turned over to the authorities in worn condition with dents, completely empty. The bottle was created by Dartz Motorz, which is … Continue reading “5 Weird Things Found on Construction Sites”

Artificial Intelligence is becoming more than a trendy phrase or far-out concept. The reality is that it’s being used now on projects every day. For example, Chatbots (which are automated texting software programs) are predicted to take over a large amount of personal assistant and customer service positions this year alone – saving companies over … Continue reading “Will Artificial Intelligence Replace Construction Jobs?”

It can be tricky to figure out what to wear in an interview, especially if you usually get your hands dirty on the job. You want to look appropriate but, obviously, not like you would be out on a site. You can be overdressed as easily as you can be underdressed, so the key is … Continue reading “How to Figure Out What to Wear in a Job Interview”

Happy, satisfied employees are up to 20% more productive, and can increase sales by almost 40%! A staff of engaged employees also lower your health care costs and increase your retention rate. Here are some ways you can ensure satisfaction from your craftsmen:

Every craftsman needs a flashlight. We use them on the job regularly, but there are so many more ways these sticks of light can really come in handy. Good thing there are so many different kinds available, so you’ll never tire of adding another to the collection! Here are some of best uses for flashlights:

There’s currently less than 1 in 5 households made of a typical nuclear married-with-children family. This is changing the landscape of how and where people want to live. Here are some trends for housing that goes outside the standard home ownership we’re used to seeing:

If you’ve been looking for a job for an extended period of time, it can really wear on you. In order to find a position that is rewarding, you must stay in a healthy mindset. Here are a few ways that you can overcome the frustrations of the search, and find yourself the perfect job:

There’s a common misconception that safety and health are the same thing, but they truly are not. And in our industry, employers tend to focus more on safety protocols without necessarily focusing on the overall well-being and health of their craftsmen. And, especially in the construction business, those safety rules can directly impact your team’s … Continue reading “Are You Keeping Your Craftsmen Safe AND Healthy?”

You don’t have to get a college degree or wear a suit to earn enough money for a comfortable lifestyle. A skilled trade career can provide a lucrative and satisfying lifestyle. Incomes range from 30K-90K per year, depending upon where you live and the demand or skills of your chosen craft. Here are some good … Continue reading “Why You Should Quit that Office Job you Hate and Become a Craftsman”

There are some amazing new innovations from around the world that could change the way we build and make all kinds of things. Check out these amazing new materials that are blowing our mind with possibility:

There are some great television, cable, and now online shows that show off the talent and business savvy of craftsmen around the world. Here are a few to watch:

The construction industry has been growing with the healthy economy and exciting innovations. Globally, various reports have indicated that the industry should continue to grow at an average rate of about 3% per year through the year 2021. The most recent 2018 Dodge Construction Outlook concurs, and the report also gave some additional specifics for … Continue reading “Construction Continues To Grow In 2018”

There’s a famous story retold by Napoleon Hill in Think & Grow Rich, in which gentleman by the name of Darby moved out west from Maryland to Colorado with his uncle in search of gold during the rush days. At first it was going well, but they had financed the machinery and each day they … Continue reading “Why You Should Dig Just 3 Feet Deeper”

The construction industry has been around for a long time, and makes for some really strange, fun, and interesting facts. Here are a few that you may not know:

Let’s be honest, the best gifts usually can’t be found at the mall. These are no exception. You’ll be able to make most of these fun and useful gadgets with not too many more tools than a pipe cutter or hacksaw and drill. And some PVC Pipe, of course.

If the abundance of stunning greenery, mild temperatures and prosperous foodie culture isn’t enough of a reason to love Oregon, it’s job growth is certain to draw in crowds. Oregon’s trend of economic prosperity is steadily increasing thanks to the number of new residents and their need for jobs.

Have you started a new rigorous workout program, but haven’t seen much progress? You might be working out too much. Maybe you’re one of those guys who can’t stop moving – always off to a new adventure, or constantly improving the home – painting the house trim or whatever – as long as you don’t have to … Continue reading “Why sitting around on your tush actually makes you stronger”

Of all the skills and talents you can acquire, leadership rules. As a boss, having leadership skills will help you achieve your business goals. Here at Madden, we think it’s one of the most important skills to look for in an employee as well! More leaders on your team will lead to amazing results for … Continue reading “Why leadership is the best skill”

Military veterans report that they have a difficult time figuring out if they’re qualified for the job, and then translating their skills into civilian skills. Here’s a process that will help you to determine if your specific skills will match the job you’re applying for.

There’s a huge demand for construction, and a big shortage of available skilled craftsmen to fill the labor need. With more than 200,000 military service members that are entering the workforce in the US each year, veterans can make a huge impact to decrease your company’s labor gap. And the best news is that Military … Continue reading “Why Military Vets Make Great Craftsmen”

If you have a chance to ask a few unusual, and unexpected questions in an interview, it can give you some great insight on your candidate. Here’s a few questions to try, and what they can tell you about your candidate:

If you’ve left the military and started looking for a job out in the ‘real world,’ it can feel daunting or even discouraging when you’re not familiar with this completely different environment. Many veterans are highly qualified for the job, but never get a shot to show what a great Here are some important ways … Continue reading “Increase your chances of getting hired after the military”

Skype and other video platforms have made it so much easier for employers to maximize their time by scheduling first round video interviews. This makes it easier for you too, with less travel time. But don’t skip on all the other preparations! Here’s our recommendations for a great video interview:

If you’ve ever worked with a Military Veteran, you probably know some of the inherent skills that they bring to the workplace. Soft skills like trust, dependability, and integrity are commonly understood to be shared by vets because of the structured environment and training they receive. However, there are some other amazing advantages that you … Continue reading “5 Little-Known Advantages Of Hiring Vets”

Now that the days are getting shorter and the leaves are turning color, you know that winter is indeed coming. And if you work outdoors, it’s an extra risky time of year. It’s important that you take good care of your body to stay healthy, so you can stay on the job! Here are some … Continue reading “How To Prepare Your Body For Winter”

It’s no secret that good craftsmen are in demand. A good paycheck matters, but not as much as your company culture. Studies show that people are more likely to leave a job because of a bad environment, than because of their paycheck. Here’s how to ensure that you’re attracting top talent to your company or … Continue reading “How To Create A Culture That Attracts The Best Candidates”

Most hiring managers really don’t care that your resume fits on one page, or if you hand-wrote a thank you note. Here’s some tips to help you from wasting time on things that don’t matter, so you can focus on the things that do.   Feel passion for your talent! The best talent is excited … Continue reading “What Hiring Managers Really Care About”

It’s getting more difficult to hire quality craftsmen because of the smaller pool of workers in our field. So, if you want to keep a high level of craftsmanship in your work product, you may have to start hiring promising younger candidates and train them yourself! Here are some things you can do to build … Continue reading “How to Overcome the Labor Shortage with a Training Program”

It’s camping season –  and your craftsmen tools can be really handy in the wilderness too! Here are some brilliant ways to use them on a camping trip this summer:

Small companies that outsource are shown to grow faster, larger, and are more profitable than those that don’t, according to a Pricewaterhouse Cooper survey. And, this just makes sense! Because when you outsource, you’ll have more time to dedicate to growing the business with less overhead as you expand. If you have a one-time project, … Continue reading “How To Grow Your Business By Outsourcing”

When you’re at an interview, it’s important that you don’t spend all your time talking about yourself! Your potential employer will want to see you show some interest and knowledge about your them with intelligent questions.

Many applicants will fib a little on a resume, and not necessarily because they are dishonest candidates. They’ve been taught to treat resumes as more of a marketing tool, which can lead to exaggerating the truth. Some common resume offenses include showing incorrect hiring dates to cover up unemployment periods, giving incorrect job titles, inaccurate … Continue reading “Why You Can’t Rely On Resumes”

Did you know there are all kinds of things you can do with a 5-Gallon Bucket? Sure, we’ve all used them on a project site… and of course you can wash your car or store food with them. But check out these other really fun options that’ll keep you from being bored on a Sunday … Continue reading “5 Fun Ways to Use a 5-Gallon Bucket”

In hiring craftsmen, we know that safety is always at the top of your mind. Sometimes it’s just the most basic habits that you can instill into your staff that can make the biggest impact on keeping them safe. Here are the best ways for you to make a big impact to protect your staff … Continue reading “5 Best Ways to Create a Safer Work Environment”

When our candidates don’t get the job they were really hoping for, I really feel for them. Dude, we’ve all been there! But, for real, it’s a good thing because it just means there’s bigger fish out there for them to reel in. Besides, they wouldn’t be feeling frustrated about their job search if they … Continue reading “Fishing for a new career”

All kinds of new technology are affecting the industry, giving all kinds of new efficiencies to your company that allow you to scale and grow at a faster rate. Here are some of the more exciting things happening right now:

I have a pretty great career. All these craftsmen come in to apply for jobs, and I can’t help but be amazed by them. Craftsmen are true talent. They’ve got skills the world needs. They have skills even I need! They pave the roads I drive on, the build the apartment I live in. Just … Continue reading “Being A Madden Recruiter Is Awesome”

There was probably a time when you got down to the final two or three candidates, and you had a hard time choosing between them. Each of them had admirable – but very different – qualities that they brought to the table, and you just couldn’t figure out how to weigh your options. Here are … Continue reading “How To Choose The Best Candidate”

Talented craftsmen candidates have the ability now more than ever to create their own dream job, and get work based on their own talents, needs, and schedule. Here are some trends that are making it easier than ever for craftsmen to find exactly the kind of work you want.

Due to cutbacks in the recession from 8-10 years ago, many craftsmen still haven’t returned to the job market. On top of that, a smaller pool of workers are entering field now. Some reports show that there are as many as 10 craftsmen retiring for every new one entering the field! And it’s having a … Continue reading “Fight The Shortage By Attracting Younger Labor”

The cover letter is a small part of the job search process in the grand scheme of things, and it always seems to cause confusion for candidates, like how to formulate it and when to send it. Many positions are now applied to online, so traditional cover letter etiquette seems to be up in the … Continue reading “Should You Copy Your Cover Letter into Your Email?”

There’s a lot of stereotypes and misunderstandings when it comes to the skills and experience of a Military veteran. This may cause underlying fears from a hiring manager, even if they recognize the skills that a Military Veterans candidate can offer. Here are some common misconceptions that recruiters and hiring managers should reconsider:

The “spend money to make more money” business technique may be applicable in some industries, but the construction industry thrives on streamlining techniques. Managing the construction process and ensuring that each step runs efficiently is an incredibly important aspect of keeping costs down and maintaining timeliness. Keep these things in mind when implementing lean construction … Continue reading “Will Lean Construction Methods Help You Make More Money?”

Military veterans often find it difficult to transition into the civilian workforce. A recent study showed that 74% of post-9/11 Veterans believe that it will be harder for them to find work than non-military civilians with the same experience! While military work and life can indeed be very different, military skills are transferrable. If you’re … Continue reading “How To Talk About Your Military Experience In A Job Interview”

Many construction workers start their careers working as general laborers, but it is possible to work towards a higher position by implementing appropriate technology. The construction industry has withstood economic hardships through the test of time because of the constant necessity for growth, but technological advances have already begun an unparalleled transformation of the industry.

Middle-class workers have always had mixed feelings towards the automation of the labor industry; on one hand, new technology can speed up tedious work but it can also jeopardize the necessity for human workers in general. The implementation of onsite technology certainly speeds up the process, but a complete technical overhaul of the construction process … Continue reading “How Workers Who Care Can’t Be Replaced by Robots”

Having so much information at the tip of your fingers is what makes the internet such a valuable asset, especially when you are looking to learn more about the job market or a specific profession. There are countless articles to read, newsletters to peruse and live videos to stream in your spare time, but podcasts … Continue reading “4 Podcasts to Help Your Information Career”

It is a well-known fact in the construction industry that the first steps of tackling a new project set the tone for the success of the project itself.  Even if the planning is impeccable and safety precautions are put into place, if the relationship with the client and project manager is not amicable, the project is … Continue reading “Why the Start of a Construction Project Makes an Enormous Impact”

Any construction worker knows there are inherent risks in the industry, as day-to-day tasks require rigorous safety precautions to minimize hazardous working conditions. Part of the job is operating or being around heavy machinery, dangerous tools, and the constant risk of falling or being hit with various materials onsite. Construction managers are designated the task … Continue reading “As a Construction Worker, What Safety Areas Must You Be Aware Of?”

The overbearing entity of the economy and its success inevitably boils down to the workers who put their efforts and resources into it; so it’s no surprise that the lack of workers, specifically in the construction industry, has an impact on the larger economic picture. Not only are companies struggling to find workers, but project … Continue reading “Will Construction Worker Shortages Slow the Economy?”

Portland is considered one of the economic hot spots of the Northwest, so it comes as no surprise that young professionals are making their way out to the scenic coastal region of Oregon. However, the demand of housing in the area has caused there to be a shortage of over 20,000 affordable housing options in … Continue reading “Affordable Housing Projects Coming to Portland”

Recruiters are not hard to come by, but like any other industry professionals, some are better than others. Every day the job market becomes more selective, so it is important to find a talented recruiter to guide you along the daunting task of finding a great job. It takes a certain skill set to be … Continue reading “What to Look for When Searching for a Recruiter”

It’s no secret that the construction industry took an economic hit during the Great Recession. Many key industries to the American economy are still fighting to recover, and as a result, there are a variety of cost-effective initiatives established to guarantee the financial welfare of a post-recession company. However, risk taking is always an important … Continue reading “How Can Your Construction Company Handle Riskier Projects This Year?”

Looking for a new job is a universally challenging process, especially today when thousands of resumes can be sent online in a blink of an eye, and the candidate pool is widening every day. Sometimes your job leads run dry, or you simply lose the motivation to find what you’re looking for.

Even if you happen to be a seasoned industry professional with a notable job history, you might have difficulties taking the next step in your career if your contact list is a little sparse. With the new year approaching, it’s important to take a step back and re-evaluate your career goals and what needs to … Continue reading “How to Improve at Networking in 2017”

The Pacific Northwest has a long history of being a coveted place to live, what with boasting affordable living and exciting culture, but as of the past year states like Oregon, Washington and Alaska have seen a population increase due to the surge in the job market. After all, to be able to afford to … Continue reading “Northwest Construction Job Growth Strong in 2016”

It is one thing to disregard your health if you have a desk job, but it can really affect your job performance if you rely on your physical capabilities to get you through the day. Construction accidents aren’t uncommon, so taking extra measures to ensure your own safety are more than worthwhile. It’s tempting to … Continue reading “Did You Know Your Job Performance Starts the Night Before?”

It would be remiss to say that co-workers and their effects on you stop when you punch out for the day. They are in many ways like family, people that you are connected to whether you like it or not, and conflict may arise because of this tight-knit existence. The workplace can be a stressful … Continue reading “4 Ways to Deal with Internal Team Conflict”

As the rest of the world’s industries are adjusting to the rapidly growing demands of clients and consumers, technology is needed to keep pace and continue growth. While the construction industry may be lagging behind as far as automation is concerned, it is apparent that a new trend is on the horizon, and it will … Continue reading “What Can a Drone Do to Help Construction Projects?”

Make no mistake, temp work may not be the longest employment stint in your career, but it is very valuable nonetheless. It may have been a less-than-ideal position years ago, when a long career with one company was valued, but in today’s workforce it is more than acceptable to take a variety of job offers … Continue reading “Should Temp Work Be on Your Resume?”

It is no secret that working in the construction industry comes with several risks to workers health. Working with heavy machinery or other imposing tools onsite requires a significant amount of keenness for safety. Luckily, accidents are down as of recent years, but now isn’t a time to become lenient – deadly accidents still occur … Continue reading “What Steps Are Being Taken to Minimize Deadly Construction Accidents?”

No matter how skilled you are in your industry, or how amazing you are at interviewing, finding a new job can be a difficult task for everyone. There are lots of odds stacked against many job seekers, like the stress and time spent searching, and there can be many reasons to give up the hunt … Continue reading “Why an Industrial Staffing Agency Will Help You Find Your Next Job”

Signing a construction contract comes with numerous risks involved, as does anything with your signature attached. Taking the extra time to fine-tune contract details will save everyone involved time and money, because nothing deters a project more than miscommunication or contract errors. Negotiations aren’t everyone’s natural strong suit, listed below are a few things to … Continue reading “What Skills Are Needed to Negotiate Construction Contracts?”

The augmented reality craze that swept the nation with millions of users might seem to some like a simple game, at most an interactive way to pass the time, but it’s not just a gimmicky phone app. There is a reason why so many people find Pokémon Go to be highly addicting, minus the fact … Continue reading “What Do Pokémon Go and Construction Have in Common?”

It’s no secret that Oregon took a big hit during the recession in 2009. Jobs were scarce, and the economy hadn’t been hit so hard in nearly thirty years. Portland was one of the cities hit hardest by the Great Recession, due to dependence on the real estate market which plummeted in the following years.

Most people do not associate the construction industry with the big data revolution, but this could be a mistake if you are currently in the job market. Big data is not just for Silicon Valley tech firms or high-speed traders anymore! In this article, we’ll look at how big data affects the construction industry, and … Continue reading “Is There a Career in Construction for Candidates with Big Data Skills?”

There have been two big trends in construction this year: The re-emergence of the single-family market, and a boom in the remodeling sector. In this article, we’ll take a look at what the data tells us about remodeling, why experts are predicting a spike in the remodeling sector, and tell you exactly what markets are … Continue reading “How Can Your Construction Business Help the Trend of Homeowners Looking to Remodel?”

Not that long ago, you could get a construction job with just a recommendation from a friend or by responding to an ad in the paper. Unfortunately for you, those days are (mostly) long gone. Today, construction-hiring managers often ask to see a resume and you might not get the job if yours is not … Continue reading “When Should You Have a Traditional Resume for Construction?”

Good help can be hard to find… and this is especially true in the construction industry. The current labor shortage has made it even more difficult to attract and retain the kind of employees that will make your company great. And it’s not like it was super easy to find the best employees before the shortage! At … Continue reading “4 Traits to Look for in Great Construction Employees”

Over the past 20 years, sustainability has become a big buzzword in the construction community. Not only do non-sustainable buildings emit energy, and produce waste materials, but environmental experts are beginning to look at the effect all this building is having on the world overall.  This means there will be more studies and research, which will … Continue reading “4 Ways to Make Your Construction More Appealing Through Sustainability”

Do you know what a millennial is? You’ve probably heard the term or seen the term but you may not know exactly what a millennial is and isn’t.

Your clients want their construction project finished yesterday and ideally under budget, right? That can lead to a lot pressure from the client, which trickles down through your team.

If you could improve one area of your professional presentation to improve your job interview, what do you think it would be? You could say experience, there’s that whole catch-22 about needing experience to get a job and needing a job to get experience, but that’s not the focal point. Besides, if you could just … Continue reading “The One Trait You Must Convey to Improve Your Next Job Interview”

Having a strong presence in your local community is important for any business. In construction, it’s essential. The more available you are to your community, the more often they will think of you when there’s a project to be done. Keep your distance, and so will they.

Construction jobs are hard work. They can involve backbreaking labor, stifling heat and long days. On the other hand, construction allows you to work outside, move around throughout the day and a chance to contribute to your local community.

If you haven’t embraced green building, you’re limiting your job prospects. Green construction is no longer a fringe movement for Prius-driving environmentalists. Corporate clients are embracing green building as a means of cutting energy costs, meeting new government regulations and presenting a social conscious to their clients. Residential customers are turning to green products to … Continue reading “Prepare Your Skills to Help with Green Building”

Summer is almost here, and temperatures are already beginning to rise. The warmer weather is a welcome change, but it can also create a new danger on the worksite. The heat can exhaust your team, the sun can burn, and hard physical labor makes everyone prone to dehydration. To prevent injuries and illness, follow these … Continue reading “4 Ways for Your Construction Team to Stay Cool This Summer”

When thinking about automation and improving processes, the construction industry probably isn’t the first job that comes to mind. However, it is an industry that will benefit from efficiency and improved technologies. We’re a far cry from having robots take over the construction of entire buildings, but chances are the day will come when robots … Continue reading “How Will Robotic Automation Affect Construction?”

You’ve polished your resume. You’ve brushed up on the latest trends in your industry. Your cover letter is succinct and tailored for each employer. You’re ready to start the job hunt in earnest. There’s just one problem. When was the last time you talked with your references?

Small talk isn’t just something you do with your in-laws and your hair dresser. It’s one of the most powerful tools at your disposal when it comes to finding a job. Having the right skills is only half the equation. Next, you need to make connections with the people who are looking for those skills. … Continue reading “Improve Small Talk with Four Easy Tips”

Custom-made products are catching on in a big way. Modern technology allows small-scale factories to see profit with even small production runs and to create custom products without purchasing new equipment or resetting everything on the production floor. Suddenly, small water bottle manufacturers can let customers design their own bottles, customizing everything from the pattern, … Continue reading “Meet Customer Demand in Manufacturing Through Mass Customization”

Over the next decade, American manufacturers are expected to have nearly three million job openings. Unfortunately, chances are your school’s guidance counselor or career advisor never talked to you about those opportunities.

It’s been a long time since any of us have scanned the shelves at our local electronic stores and spotted a once familiar tag: Made in the USA. In recent decades, as Silicon Valley has flourished, most of the technology being designed there has been manufactured overseas. But that trend is changing.

Before your next employer ever meets you, they’re going to get to know you online. What you say and how you present yourself on social media can make the difference between never getting an interview and getting placed at the top of the candidate pile.

It’s no secret, the pool of available construction laborers is shrinking, and it has been for some time. As our country’s education policies favor college preparation to job skills training, fewer students are considering careers in construction. The Great Recession forced many companies and contractors to lay off workers and reduce their hiring, making the … Continue reading “Overcome the Skilled Labor Shortage Through Staffing”

When your grandfather took his first job in construction, he probably knew a lot about ranch houses, dark paneling, and shag carpets. These days, even mentioning those things will get you laughed out of any respectable job interview. Trends change and being up on what’s current (and what’s not) will make you stand out amongst … Continue reading “What Trends Do You Need to Know in Construction as a Job Candidate?”

A little fear is a good thing. You want employees who perform their best, and fear of underperforming is a great motivator. But too much fear can do more harm than good. You don’t have time to hold your employees’ hands through every task, or constantly be telling them what to do next.

If you’re thinking about a job in construction management, or you’ve worked in construction for many years and are ready to take the next step, you may want to consider a career as a general contractor.

We’ve all worked a job where safety was a four-letter word. People cut corners, because saving time was more important than staying safe. Co-workers laughed if you ran back to the truck to grab a pair of safety goggles. Someone told you a harness isn’t necessary if you won’t be on the ladder for very … Continue reading “Management Can Get the Entire Team to Buy into Safety”

The job market is highly competitive, and that means you need to do everything you can to make yourself stand out from the crowd. One of the most important resources you need to have in your job-hunting arsenal is a resume that makes recruiters want to stop and take notice. The best way to do … Continue reading “How Do I Create a Skills-Based Resume?”

When it comes to winning new projects, it’s not enough to work hard, do things right and come in under budget. Those things will all help, but only if you have the communications skills to get that message across to prospective clients. Don’t worry. You don’t have to take a master’s class on writing to … Continue reading “Win More Construction Projects with Improved Communication”

You’ve built a successful business. You’ve worked long, hard hours creating relationships with your clients and delivering above and beyond their expectations. You’re a recognized name in your industry. Now the truly hard work begins. Once you’re established, how do you continue to make your business grow year after year? There are plenty of buzzwords … Continue reading “Improve Your Recruiting in 2016”

Some people are cut out for desk jobs; however, chances are if you’re reading this post, you’re not one of them. Don’t feel bad. Turns out, you’re probably a lot happier than those desk jockeys — and I’m not just saying that. The desk jockeys at TINYpulse created an Industry Ranking report that proves it. … Continue reading “Want to Be Happy at Work? Take a Job in Construction”

You can’t predict an OSHA inspection. OSHA doesn’t work on a site-by-site list to plan its inspection cycles. Instead, they perform random inspections and respond to incidents or complaints. That means instead of planning for a set inspection time, you need to make sure your site is prepared for an inspection at all times. Here’s … Continue reading “Is Your Site Ready for an OSHA Inspection?”

You’ve heard plenty of gimmicks for getting your resume noticed: insist on handing it directly to the boss, use brightly colored paper, send a box of chocolates…and a million other tactics that not only don’t work, but will probably get your resume thrown in the trash. The fact is, gimmicks don’t work, because recruiters get … Continue reading “Get Your Cover Letter to the Top of the Pile”

Facts about the Labor Market in King and Snohomish Counties 2015 brings the tightest labor market in over 7 years; and will continue to become more challenging for employers to hire and retain quality workers. National Labor information released Friday September 4, 2015 reported lowest unemployment nationally since 2008 at 5.1%. The July 2015 unemployment rate … Continue reading “The Case for Direct Hire Staffing”

If you employed more than 50 full-time or full-time equivalent employees last year, you must file a 1094-C form this year to ensure your company is compliant with the latest Affordable Care Act guidelines. Failing to file, or filing incorrectly, could mean hefty penalties for your company; so start now to make sure you’re ready … Continue reading “Is Your Organization Ready to File the 1094-C Form?”

If you worked for a company with more than 50 full-time equivalent employees, even if it was only part-time work, temporary work or contract work, chances are you will receive a 1095-C form early next year. This form is part of the new Affordable Care Act requirements, and your employer may be required to send … Continue reading “What Do I Do with This 1095-C Form?”

Managing a project involves more than just understanding how to read schematics and organize a team of full-time and temporary workers. Whether you’re constructing a new building, renovating an office complex, or rewiring someone’s home, a successful project manager needs to excel in three areas: communication, leadership, and risk management.

You want to make the best impression with your new employer, so the last thing you need is to be out sick your first week on the job. Unfortunately, the flu doesn’t care how long you’ve been on the job, and if you’re new to a worksite, chances are you’re going to come into contact … Continue reading “Avoid Contracting the Flu in 2016 with These 5 Tips”