Building A Positive Work Culture For Subcontracted Employees

May 23, 2023

Working with subcontractors is a way of life for any contractor. But these temporary workers can sometimes feel like outsiders. It’s worth making the effort to help them feel welcome and like part of the team, though. They will be more engaged and more productive, creating a direct positive effect on your bottom line. And they will be more likely to want to return for future projects, giving you an ongoing pipeline of subcontractors you know and like. Here are some easy ways to build a positive work culture for them.

Make Communication Easy

As a contractor, you are an expert in the business side of your company. You know how to bid on jobs, plan projects, pull permits, and more. And you also have some knowledge of each skilled trade involved, from painting to carpentry. But your subcontractors are experts in those skilled trades. They can assess their part of the project and quickly determine which materials and methods are best. They’re also your eyes and ears on the ground, and they can often spot a potential problem brewing before it is out of control.

So it only makes sense to set up multiple lines of communication. Give your subcontractors your office and cell phone numbers. Check-in on them at least every couple of days. Encourage them to share their thoughts.

Listen, Then Act

When subcontractors come to you with an issue or an idea, take the time to listen. Use active listening techniques such as clarifying and restating to ensure you understand what they’re saying. Then take action. You won’t necessarily be able to do exactly what the person is hoping for, but you might work together to brainstorm alternate solutions that would fit your business needs and the client’s requirements.

Value Everyone’s Input

Some contractors genuinely believe that they work well with subcontractors, but they only listen to the head of each team. Remember that even the newest electrician or plumber has a unique perspective that is worth exploring. Talk to the people who are actually doing the work, not just the ones who are overseeing them. This shows that you value their contributions and helps to create a positive work culture. And it just might lead to an innovative solution that hadn’t occurred to anyone else.

Need a Skilled Trade Professional?

At Great Lakes Skilled Trades, we specialize in connecting contractors with professionals in the skilled trades throughout the Great Lakes region. If you need a skilled tradesperson, learn more about our services and contact us today!

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Overcoming Common Challenges in Urban Commercial Construction

March 27, 2024

Urban commercial construction brings a whole set of challenges that contractors in the suburbs and rural areas never have to consider. But revitalization is extremely important for urban cores to survive and thrive, so these projects can be quite lucrative. Here are some common difficulties, along with tips to overcome them and remain on good terms with the neighbors. Tight Spaces In urban areas, there simply isn’t as much space to move around. You might have difficulty getting some of your heavy machinery to fit, or your subcontractors could be trying to paint an apartment the size of an average broom closet. Rise to the challenge by thinking outside the box. Carefully survey the entire space before you get started, and develop a detailed project plan in advance. Be sure to include entry and egress routes, alternative ways of getting things done, and even subcontractor schedules that minimize the number of people working in the same space at the same time. Local Regulations Many urban areas have byzantine construction regulations that are confusing and hard to follow. Take the time to research these regulations and understand what you need to do. Then, boil it all down into a simple, easy-to-read document that you distribute to everyone involved. Get to know the local authorities and find someone whom you can call whenever you have questions or concerns. Make sure your team members are ready to pivot if you find out that you missed or misinterpreted something significant. Always have a backup plan. Community Engagement Transparency can go a long way toward getting the local community on your side. Let people know what you’re working on and how it will benefit them. Explain why the project is happening, how long it will take, and whether it will impact their costs (such as taxes). If you’re redeveloping a historic building, be especially sensitive to the concerns of preservationists and meet with them separately to explain your plans. Noise Control You won’t endear yourself to the local community if you’re making a lot of noise when residents are trying to sleep. And remember, even if you’re working on an office building, there could be luxury apartments right next door. Use sound baffling measures to reduce noise. Whenever possible, work during daylight hours. Minimizing Disruptions No matter how careful you are, urban commercial construction projects are inherently disruptive to the neighborhood. But you can mitigate this with careful planning. Try not to block streets during morning or evening rush hours. Be considerate of any upcoming local events. Do your best not to interfere with vehicular or pedestrian traffic patterns. When you do need to create a blockage, be sure to put up signage and work as quickly as you can without compromising safety. Need a Skilled Trade Professional? At Great Lakes Skilled Trades, we specialize in connecting contractors with professionals in the skilled trades throughout the Great Lakes region. If you need a skilled tradesperson, learn more about our services, and then contact us today!