As you look ahead to 2024, do you have a vision for what you’d like to achieve? Where do you see yourself by this time next year? Without goals in mind, you risk falling behind and missing out on the many opportunities within the construction industry. To get the most out of the new year, we recommend a two-fold strategy: turn your attention inwardly for professional development and externally for support.
Students
- Apply for your next training opportunity.
No matter what grade you’re in, starting now will put you one step ahead of your classmates. Still in junior high or high school? Find a local training center or organization like MACC-Tech to help you hone your skills while completing required coursework. Graduating in 2024? Decide what path to take post-grad, which can range from a traditional four-year education at a university to tailored career technical training.
- Seek out mentors that can guide you.
Equally important as structured training is learning directly from people who have been there. Talk with teachers and neighbors working in the industry. Don’t be shy — we promise they’ll be honored to help you. With their ongoing guidance, you’ll be well on your way to a rewarding construction career.
Job Seekers
- Make yourself hirable.
Out of date, sparse resumes put applicants on the bottom of a company’s application pile. In 2023, you might have been busy working lots of jobs. If so, use the beginning of the new year to capture your experience on your resume. Or, you might be just starting out and not have the skills most companies are looking for. If so, seek out additional training options, including apprenticeships. It’s never too early — or too late — to get experience.
- Expand your network.
The construction industry is a tight-knit community. It’s important that we all support each other as we build our careers while we work together to build Ohio. Networking often gets a bad rap. But it’s a necessity and not as complicated as you may think. Look up local labor unions to join an established cohort or take time to get to know your team members outside of work to create camaraderie that will translate to rewarding relationships.
Employers
- Turn your attention to your team.
If you’re going to need to bring on new team members next year, it’s important to know that you are not alone. Our industry as a whole continues to face a labor shortage, so attracting talent will be tricky. But if you’re lucky enough to have already built the best team, retention should be your top concern. Either way, prioritize your employees first and foremost. To set your company apart, consider updating your existing benefits package and improving your company culture. Click here for additional employer-specific recommendations.
- Get the latest on industry trends.
Our industry is changing faster than ever, thanks to new technologies, increased demand, and more. To keep your company moving forward, you will need to keep industry and cultural trends top of mind.
Every construction industry member at every career stage can set themselves up for the new year with this complete, well-rounded strategy. Together, we will build a successful 2024.
