You don’t have to be paying close attention to notice that construction is on the rise. All it takes is driving through any of America’s metropolitan areas, where you’ll see different projects popping up all over the place.
In fact, experts noted major growth in the construction industry in 2022, and expect even more growth in the coming years. And while that’s good news for anybody who works in the industry, it also points to a more competitive environment.
So, how can you stand out in an increasingly crowded market? We’ve outlined some helpful tips below.
1. Embrace the future
Like Bob Dylan said, “the times they are a-changin’.” More and more construction companies are switching to digital solutions as opposed to strictly pen and paper for daily reporting and proactive safety management.
The more you’re able to add new technologies into your process, the greater chance you have of staying ahead.
2. Network
Staying connected with other industry leaders is a great way to get a bigger picture of how your industry is evolving. However, there’s more to networking than just attending Chamber of Commerce mixers.
For example, what does your social media and web presence look like? Many companies hire professionals to manage their social pages and websites to ensure that prospective clients get a good idea of their reputation and core values before proceeding with new contracts.
3. Find a niche
What projects do you prefer to take on? Let those projects become your speciality, or your “niche.”
Do you prefer viewing a project from beginning to end? Then maybe you should focus on fostering a design-build niche. Are you green at heart? Maybe focus on LEED-certified or sustainable construction practices. Interested in business overall? You could focus your company on franchise construction or renovations.
4. Build a good team
Your business is only as good as its employees. If you find yourself going through several superintendents or project managers in a short period of time, it might be time to reevaluate your hiring practices or company culture.
You should always be in recruitment mode to ensure that you’re attracting the best talent because, as the construction industry grows, skilled laborers and experienced workers are becoming more scarce.
There also simply aren’t enough new workers learning these skilled trades to fill roles left vacant by retiring workers, which makes fostering a positive culture even more important.
5. Emphasize customer service
One of the most foolproof ways to stay ahead in any industry is to keep the customers coming back. Positive client experiences make or break your business and affect your reputation and ability to earn repeat income as well.
6. Stress communication
Communication is important in any job, but especially in situations where safety is key. Good communication can significantly reduce the likelihood of injury and litigation, but it can also help keep projects on schedule.
The Raken app offers solutions to the communication problem, with easy direct messaging capabilities and production tracking, both of which can help ensure that your whole team is on the same page.
These are exciting times to be in the construction industry, but competition is also at record levels. Embrace technology and people power to make sure that you stay ahead of the curve.
Get started to add Raken's construction field reporting app to your competitive arsenal.