Craftsmen aren’t made…they’re born that way. It’s something innate. While skills can be refined and developed, there’s something to be said about what a craftsman can instinctively bring to the job. It’s these characteristics and tendencies that make certain people perfectly suited for this line of work. Sure, specialized capabilities can be learned, but the essential skills? Those come naturally. To better understand if you’re a good fit for the trades, let’s take a look at a few of the most important skills craftsmen bring to the job.
Attention to detail.
Whatever job you’re doing, you take pride in the result. That’s because a craftsman is a craftsman at heart, no matter the task at hand. Putting up drywall in your new home for the first time? It better look like the work of a seasoned pro. If you bring a high attention to detail to every job and demand perfection, you’re cut out for work as a craftsman. When on-site, the execution of your work will make it possible for others to be successful.
Problem-solving.
When problems rear their ugly heads, you’re not looking for excuses or a pity party. No, you’re looking for the perfect tool to bring those issues to submission. When on the job, you’re always drumming up new and innovative solutions. You don’t get discouraged or distracted by obstacles – just the opposite. Craftsmen have a hunger for challenges in order to hone their skills and develop their craft…and maybe show off to the team a little.
Customer service skills.
As much as you love the hands-on and the nitty-gritty, you’re still a people-person. You enjoy connecting with other craftsmen on the job and getting to know your customers. For craftsmen, working with clients comes naturally as there’s a sense of mutual respect and admiration. Behind all the heavy machinery, contracts, and timestamps, you know there’s an honest, hard-working person just trying to make a living. Besides, you know at the end of the day, there’s no work without other people.
Communication.
There’s always a job to get done. And, as a craftsman, you know the clock is always ticking. When you need something, you don’t hesitate to say it. There’s no time to beat around the bush. On the flip side, your ears are always perked to the needs of teammates, bosses, and clients. With so many working parts on the job site – both in terms of people and machines – craftsmen have to bring their A-game when it comes to communication. There’s never a dull moment in this business.
Teamwork.
Although you don’t mind working alone (and you might even be a little bit more productive when you are), you know how essential teamwork is on the job site. When working with a variety of different teams, you understand the importance of smooth and effective collaboration. Although you’re all bringing different skill sets to the table, the end goal is the same: perfect execution. Craftsmen don’t have any trouble balancing solo and collaborative work, and they know when to take the lead (and when to follow).
Self-Motivation
For you, an honest day’s work happens every day. You know what it means to put in the hours, and you get satisfaction in succeeding in your work. Craftsmen take their projects personally. They’re self-driven, motivated, and always hungry for more. Even though you’re a vital part of a larger team, you don’t need to be coddled. The right tools and a little bit of elbow grease is all you need to get the job done right.
Whether you’re in between jobs or looking to make a career switch, visit IamMadden.com for immediate job opportunities. You can easily search open positions based on your work experience or personal strengths. Looking to get qualified? Check out our apprenticeship program where you can develop the skills you need while getting paid. At Madden, we know being a craftsman isn’t just a job, it’s a way of life. Let’s build something.
