Whether you’re searching for your first construction job or looking to advance your career beyond the position you’re already in, it may be challenging to find jobs in the construction industry. Fortunately, there are ways to make your construction industry job search easier, allowing you to be well on your way to the next step in your career.
5 Tips for Finding Jobs in the Construction Industry
If you’re job searching in the construction industry, but you’re not sure where to start, consider the following tips for finding the position that’s perfect for you.
1. Use Job Board Websites
The first step most people take when trying to land a new job is looking at job board listings online. These listings can be incredibly helpful in showing you a wide range of positions, but they can also be overwhelming if you don’t know what exactly you’re looking for. And, if there aren’t many construction job websites out there, it may be hard to find one that meets your needs.
When searching on general job board websites like LinkedIn or Indeed, be sure to use certain keywords and descriptors to narrow down positions and help you find what you’re looking for. This may include researching specific areas of construction, certain types of construction jobs, or even jobs based on credentials you already have, such as construction project management.
Another avenue to try is looking at construction company websites in addition to searching on more general job boards. Local construction companies, especially, may only post current job listings on their own website, so it’s good to do your research to see if these companies have anything to offer you.
At the very least, if you can’t find job postings on a company’s website, you can use their contact information to reach out and see what opportunities are available, if any. Ask if the company is looking to hire; if they aren’t hiring, these businesses may direct you toward connections they have at other companies, or apprenticeship and training programs they know of that you might consider applying for.
2. Network with Other Professionals in the Field
Making professional connections and networking with others is a great way to find job opportunities in the construction industry. Not only will you meet like-minded individuals, but you will also learn more about the field of construction by meeting one-on-one with someone in the industry. Ways you can consider networking with individuals include:
- Applying for an apprenticeship with a trade union
- Taking a tour of a local construction job site
- Attending conferences or seminars in your area related to the industry
- Printing out business cards and exchanging them with others when appropriate
The people you meet along your career path are great assets for finding job opportunities in the future. Knowing someone who already works in the field, especially if they are a trustworthy employee, is a great way to break into the construction industry—even if you don’t necessarily have much experience. These individuals can introduce you to the right people and potentially land you a position at the company they work for.
3. Update Your Resume
One of the most important steps during your construction industry job search is updating your resume to list your most relevant experience and skills. Those looking for entry-level positions may find this a challenge, especially when they don’t have much experience under their belt.
If you’re unsure what to fill in on your resume, consider emphasizing general traits that employers always look for. For example, you might talk about what you’ve accomplished in the past, maybe through your education, and highlight skills like punctuality, flexibility, and the ability to work with others. In the construction industry, these are important traits that employers look for.
Finally, you should tailor your resume for each job posting, meaning that your resume should include any language that’s provided in the job description. If the job posting lists required qualifications or skills that you already have, these should be included on your resume.
4. Showcase Your Experience
There are plenty of ways to show a potential employer in the construction industry that you have the skills and experience necessary to be successful in the job position. Besides using your resume, you can also showcase your experience through a cover letter, recommendations from others, or case studies of your projects.
One of the most important parts of showing off your experience is doing so in a way that makes you stand out from other candidates. Think about what you can bring to the role and why your unique skillset and background make you the perfect candidate for this position.
5. Work With a Construction Industry Recruiter
Finding jobs in the construction industry can become a lot easier when you have the right help. When you work with a construction industry recruiter, landing the right position can become a lot easier. These recruiters work directly with construction companies in your area to find a position that’s right for you. Recruitment agencies have an extensive network of connections, making them a great resource during your job search.
At Austin Nichols, we specialize in placing candidates in multiple industries, including construction, engineering, and manufacturing. If you need help in your construction industry job search, contact us today at 816-471-5575.
