The Art of Collaboration: Working On A Team During Large Projects

Shazamme System User • July 5, 2023

In the skilled trades, large projects often require lots of workers to be on the job site at the same time. But this can quickly devolve into chaos and confusion if each person doesn’t do their part to keep the team moving smoothly. Here are a few essentials that can help you navigate a complex project with many team members while ensuring that your own work gets done efficiently.

Well-Defined Roles

On a busy job site, you can’t just leave it up to each person to decide what they’re going to do and when they’re going to do it. Otherwise, you’re likely to have some people running around in circles while others trip over each other in a particularly crowded spot. Large projects need to be choreographed like a dance, with each person taking responsibility for specific tasks.

Communication

Conflict is inevitable when a lot of people are working closely together. But nearly every situation can be resolved with strong communication skills. Speak up when something first becomes an issue rather than wait for it to get worse. Explain your needs and really listen when the other person explains theirs. Also, be sure to state clearly and loudly when you are doing something that could be dangerous to others. Just like chefs and line cooks yell “Behind!” when carrying hot food past someone else, you need to let people know when there’s a risk to them.

Negotiation

Sometimes your goals won’t align with someone else’s. For example, you might both want to work in a particularly narrow area of the job site. In this case, your negotiation skills can keep things moving smoothly. Clearly explain what you need and ask the other person what they need. Offer solutions and discuss them until you land on something that works well for both of you. And remember, the point of negotiation isn’t to get everything you want. It’s to ensure that both sides get some of what they want.

Leadership

Ultimately, someone has to take responsibility for your team’s contributions to large projects. If that’s you, make sure to show good leadership skills. Lead by example, fairly mitigate disputes, and always give credit to your team for a job well done.

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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!