How to Build a Thriving Career in Construction: Key Principles for Success
Want a thriving career in construction? The secret lies in adopting specific practices that drive growth and success. This blog outlines actionable tips to elevate your career, inspired by Alex Brogan’s LinkedIn post, 14 Things to Become Indispensable at Work. I’ve built on Alex’s framework, adding my own insights to give you a comprehensive guide for your journey.
Setting Goals for Career Growth
One common trait among successful professionals is intentionality. Many create a personal code—a list of values or characteristics they aim to embody. Early in my career, I followed this practice by writing down affirmations of who I wanted to become. Repeating and revisiting these goals kept me focused and shaped my progress.
Top Career Tips:
- Leave Things Better Than You Found Them
This principle applies to everything—projects, tools, relationships, and environments. Make sure that every task or interaction is left in a better state because of your involvement. This habit builds trust and demonstrates your value.
- Have a Bias Towards Action
When faced with uncertainty, prioritize action. As Jocko Willink emphasizes, “default aggressive” means being proactive and decisive. It’s easier to adjust an active approach than to motivate inaction.
- Write Before Action
Whether you’re drafting an email, outlining a project, or setting goals, writing helps clarify your thoughts. This practice not only enhances communication but also boosts your confidence and authority in delivering ideas.
- Be Impatient with Actions and Patient with Results
Encourage effort over perfection. Focus on continuous improvement and foster an environment where iterations and teamwork lead to outstanding results.
- Ask Great Questions
Questions are the key to learning. Don’t hold back—ask as many as you need to fully understand the task at hand. Curiosity accelerates your growth and problem-solving abilities.
- Have Pride in Your Work
Think of every task as having your name on it. Strive to deliver quality in all that you do, from emails to complex projects, as if they are a reflection of your character.
- Limit Distractions at Work
In today’s distraction-heavy world, focus is a superpower. Commit to single-tasking and avoid the temptation of social media or other diversions during work hours.
- Communication Shows Competency
Keep everyone in the loop, especially your supervisors and team members. Overcommunicating builds trust and ensures that everyone is aligned.
- Close Loops Quickly
Timely follow-ups and task completions enhance reliability and trustworthiness. Always address pending tasks or commitments promptly.
- Bring Solutions, Not Problems
Be solution-oriented. Instead of merely presenting challenges, propose actionable ideas to resolve them. This approach makes you a valuable asset to any team.
Success in construction—or any career—isn’t just about talent. It’s about adopting the right mindset, being intentional, and continually improving. I hope these tips empower you to achieve your career goals.
If you want to learn more we have:
-Takt Virtual Training: (Click here)
-Check out our Youtube channel for more info: (Click here)
-Listen to the Elevate Construction podcast: (Click here)
-Check out our training programs and certifications: (Click here)
-The Takt Book: (Click here)
Discover Jason’s Expertise:
Meet Jason Schroeder, the driving force behind Elevate Construction IST. As the company’s owner and principal consultant, he’s dedicated to taking construction to new heights. With a wealth of industry experience, he’s crafted the Field Engineer Boot Camp and Superintendent Boot Camp – intensive training programs engineered to cultivate top-tier leaders capable of steering their teams towards success. Jason’s vision? To expand his training initiatives across the nation, empowering construction firms to soar to unprecedented levels of excellence.
On we go
