Construction companies are vital to society. People live, work, and play in buildings that are almost as varied as the human race. Because of the pivotal role buildings play in everyday life, it is paramount that those who erect these structures share the same foundational agendas. The culture of any construction company is instrumental in determining how well a project is perceived and executed. Here are four strategies to improve the culture of almost any construction company.
Invest in the Workforce
Employees are the best asset when it comes to construction. The more one invests in them, the more productive one’s company will become. A well-trained, highly-skilled workforce can increase efficiency. Investments in training and education allow for people to focus on tasks required of them and reduce time spent correcting mistakes on the job. Lastly, a smart, disciplined workforce can be trusted to complete the toughest of tasks, while ensuring quality results and a safe working environment.
Be Transparent and Honest
Corporate culture originates at the highest levels. Being open and honest with employees is one of the best ways to gain trust; allowing them to reciprocate the same fosters a relationship that can lead to heightened worker satisfaction and higher productivity. Workers tend to have in-depth, experience-based knowledge in specific areas that, when called upon, can help shed light on issues and processes that may need improvement.
Compensate and Reward
Recognizing hard work and dedication may be the most immediate way to upgrade the culture of a construction company. This can come in the form or pay raises, bonuses, vacation days, or paid time off. Insurance packages that charge reasonable rates are also a great way to honor an employee’s contributions. An attendance policy that promotes a healthy work-life balance will help to reduce the dreaded production killers of tardiness and absenteeism.
Prioritize Safety Over Success
Construction workers perform some of the most dangerous work in our society, sometimes putting their lives on the line at the highest altitudes, the lowest depths, and the harshest environments our world has to offer. Promoting worker safety demonstrates to your employees that they are cared for. Secure harnessing, scaffolding, protective equipment, and signage in work zones are visual indicators that safety comes first. Empowering workers to call out safety concerns also serves to increase vigilance throughout the construction project.
Implementing these four strategies to improve a construction company’s culture will help advance the civil engineering industry. Employees will trust the business’s mission, embody its values, and promote its accomplishments. Company culture should be taken seriously, as a positive one will help attract talented, hard-working people, and extend business as far as the I-beams can stretch.
Lizzie Weakley is a freelance writer from Columbus, Ohio. In her free time, she enjoys the outdoors and walks in the park with her three-year-old husky, Snowball.