Have you been looking to get started with a new job in the construction industry? Working in construction can often seem like a somewhat complicated process. However, it doesn’t have to be that hard to get started. With this thought in mind, we have outlined some of the key things you need to know about getting started in a new construction job.
Getting Started in Construction: 10 Crucial Tips You Should Know
Did you know that getting started in the construction industry is actually surprisingly easy? Still, if you’re not sure how to get started in construction, we’ve summarised ten key steps and tips to help.
#1 Choose Your Construction Role
There are countless different types of construction jobs available. With this in mind, the first thing you will need to consider when getting started in construction is why type of role you’d like to pursue.
Of course, every role will offer different pros and cons. As such, there’s no single job that’s ideal for everyone. Luckily, finding the most appropriate construction job types isn’t hard. Consider your skills and expertise to find the one that fits you best.
#2 Who to Work For?
It’s not just choosing the type of job role that’s important when getting started in construction – you’ll also need to decide who to work for. Of course, there are countless different factors that may play into this decision. And every employer will also differ, too.
For example, working with a labour hire team can offer great opportunities to work on numerous sites, adding more variation to the job.
So, be sure to consider what you’re looking for from your new employer. It’ll definitely help you pick out the ideal role in the construction industry for your needs.
#3 Arrange PPE
PPE (personal protective equipment) is vital when working in the construction industry.
Naturally, the type of PPE you’ll need may vary depending on your job type. If you’re working in the management side of things, you’ll likely need a lot less PPE than someone working on a high risk job.
Still, many employers will expect you to provide your own PPE. Thus, before you begin looking for jobs, make sure to have this arranged. This change helps demonstrate to a potential employer that you’re eager and enthusiastic.
#4 Apply for a White Card
Before you can begin working in the construction industry, you’ll need to apply for a white card.
A white card in Australia is a license that enables individuals to work in the construction industry. Check out our White Card Handbook to learn more.
You won’t be able to work on construction sites without one; this is true not only for labourers but also for site managers and supervisors.
So, regardless of your chosen type of construction role, applying for a white card is crucial at this point.
#5 Do You Need a High Risk Worker’s License?
A white card enables you to work in the construction industry in Australia. It does not allow you to complete high risk work (such as crane operation).
As such, if your chosen construction role is likely to involve high risk procedures, it would help to also apply for a high risk worker’s license here. But, if you’ve never worked in construction before, master the basics before looking at high risk jobs and opportunities.
#6 Complete Construction Training
At this point, if you’ve never worked in the construction industry before, it may be important to learn new skills with construction training.
Construction industry training is a simple way to bolster your knowledge and expertise. Plus, this proves your skills to a potential future employer.
In turn, this can help ensure you get the best possible results from your construction projects.
#7 Complete your CV
Your CV is one of the first things your potential new employer will learn about you when getting started in construction.
With this thought in mind, putting down plenty of information that can demonstrate your expertise is vital. However, try not to be overly self-promotional.
Sometimes, an individual who is too confident in their own abilities can come across as cocky and unwilling to take direction.
Instead, try to find a balance between showing off your skills and not appearing too self-confident; there’s a lot to be said for being humble, too.
We also have another article about some key construction worker resume tips.
#8 Search for Job Opportunities
At this point, you’ve got everything in place to get started. So now it’s just a case of finding the ideal construction jobs for you!
Luckily, construction workers are often in very high demand in Australia, and there can be thousands of open job positions at any one time.
As such, always be sure to keep an eye on the different openings and opportunities. You may need a little patience at this time to find the perfect job, but don’t worry – it will be out there.
Contacting construction employers direct could also be a good option to get in the running before jobs are advertised. But don’t be too forceful or demanding, as this can come across as frustrating for a potential employer.
If you would like to know the top 6 qualities employers look for in a good construction worker, check this article.
#9 Demonstrate your Skills
If you’re accepted for an interview with a potential employer, you’ll need to demonstrate your skills well.
Of course, construction job roles are often understaffed, so you stand a good chance of getting a job. However, employers can’t afford to hire someone who’s not right for the position.
As such, it’s still vital you demonstrate your skills thoroughly during the interview process.
Try to get in as many references to your experiences or knowledge as possible. It’ll help show that you know what you’re talking about!
#10 Make Your Mark!
That’s all there is to it – once you’ve accepted your dream construction job, all that’s left to do is make your mark.
Show your employer the value you can bring to the team and work to do your best on every project. In doing so, you may find that promotions find themselves in your direction much more regularly!
Final Thoughts
Perhaps you’re looking to hire new entrants and help them with getting started in construction. Or maybe you’re looking for a new career opportunity in construction, but you’re not sure where to start.
Whatever the case might be, getting started in construction can be easy if you follow our simple steps.
Need professional support? Our experts here at Fast Labour Hire understand the different types of construction jobs and their requirements. So, why not contact us to learn more about getting started
