The construction industry is becoming increasingly competitive as more businesses enter the fray to compete for limited projects. Construction managers must always innovate, improve, and adapt to maintain a competitive advantage.
With 2022 in full swing, it’s an excellent opportunity for project leaders to reflect on their business’s current circumstances to see where advancements are possible. Let’s review some actionable and effective ways construction managers can increase their competitiveness for a successful year.
1. Stay up-to-date on the latest trends.
The construction sector is constantly undergoing improvements as new technology is introduced, advanced techniques are developed, and industry-wide circumstances change. Construction businesses that cling to outdated assumptions and practices are bound to get left behind as their competitors advance and client expectations shift.
It’s imperative that project managers become familiar with the construction trends of 2022 in order to make the necessary adjustments and accommodations. Understanding these anticipated changes before they occur gives managers a competitive advantage to prepare their team and operations.
For example, the increased adoption of AI & VR tech is an expected change in the near future. With this information, project managers can make the necessary investments in talent and technology to keep up with client expectations and industry standards
2. Keep stakeholders in the loop.
It’s easy to lose touch with stakeholders as you get into the nitty-gritty of a construction project. However, it’s crucial that project managers communicate effectively, clearly, and consistently with all parties involved in a project. Although there are slight variations between each project, stakeholders tend to include the client, suppliers, and contractors.
As the project manager, you’re the connecting link between all these participants. It’s your responsibility to keep everyone on the same page while managing conflicting expectations and resolving potential issues. Instead of leaving it up to chance, create a schedule for checking in with each stakeholder so everyone knows what to expect.
The recent passage of the $1.2 trillion infrastructure bill will see a lot of public and private funds poured into the construction industry throughout 2022 and beyond. Project managers looking to make the most of this influx of investment need to master their stakeholder management for a smoother experience overall.
3. Improve your bidding process.
The demand for professional construction projects is expected to rise throughout 2022 and beyond which means higher competition as more and more construction businesses offer their services. One of the keys to outshining other candidates is to master the bidding process.
When you can land construction bids more consistently, you can earn more income without having to waste time constantly scoping out potential projects and preparing proposals. Here are a few quick tips to ensure your bidding technique is optimized:
- Bid on new projects quickly.
- Choose projects diligently.
- Build relationships with top decision-makers.
- Understand the competition.
- Highlight your team’s unique advantages.
- Build a sense of mutual trust with clients.
- Follow up with the potential client consistently.
4. Perfect hiring practices.
Craftsmen are a project manager’s most valuable asset. You could have the best bidding strategies, the highest quality equipment, and the most effective construction management techniques and still fail to meet client expectations if you don’t have a reliable, qualified, and talented team of craftsmen.
Perfecting hiring practices lays a foundation for building a capable and cohesive craftsmen team. The best way to overcome the time pressures and financial burdens that keep project managers from optimizing their hiring and onboarding process is to work with a construction staffing expert. These professionals already have the techniques and strategies in place to find the perfect candidates.
With a professional, efficient, and targeted hiring process, project managers have the flexibility to hire specific craftsmen talent when they need it. This can cut down on wasted investments due to hiring inefficiencies that often lead to high turnover rates.
If you’re interested in learning more about construction staffing solutions, you’re in the right place! Madden Craftsmen has been helping project managers throughout the Northwest find the talent they need to reach their project goals. Contact us today to get started. Let’s build something together.
