Starting a Career in Construction? 6 TIPS to Help You Get Started

If you are thinking about starting a career in construction, there are some tips you may want to consider. These 6 tips can help you prepare – not just for the job, but for a full career. Follow this advice and you will stand out among all of the other applicants. OSHA 10 Hour Training courses can support you in your pursuit.

The first tip is really true for ANY new job. As you think about starting a career in construction, remember to give yourself some time to learn. There may be things that you already know and you should exercise patience for what you do not know…YET.

1.BE PATIENT

As with learning any new trade, it is important to be patient with yourself and with others. Recognize that you do not yet know all that the job involves or requires. Understand that learning a new trade or career takes time, but will pay off later. Construction is all about patience and diligence, so these are good qualities to start with.

2. LEARN

Be willing to learn from those who are experienced in construction. They can provide a wealth of knowledge, if you let them. Ask questions and get answers. Do not be afraid to speak up when you do not know something. You will be respected more for your eagerness to learn. On the flip side, if you do not know something and do not ask, you risk making big mistakes.

LEARN YOUR EQUIPMENT

starting a career in construction Read up on the equipment and tools required for the job. This will, of course depend on the type of construction in which you are interested. Get informed about both light equipment and heavy duty equipment.

SELECT AN AREA OF INTEREST

Here are some areas in construction for you to consider:

Earthmoving
Underground Construction
Paving and Materials Production
Lifting and Concrete Placement
Heavy Construction
Forestry
Mining

KNOW THE MATERIALS

You may not know what area of construction you would like to pursue yet. If that is the case, go ahead and become familiar with generic materials that are frequently used in construction.

MATERIALS USED IN CONSTRUCTION:

Articulated Trucks
Backhoe Loaders
Compact Track & Multi Terrain Loaders
Compactors
Excavators
Motor Graders
Skid Steer Loaders
Wheel Loaders

Upon hiring, your employer will explain what training courses will be required for you to take. However, it is a good idea to already be aware of the type of training you will likely need. Get ahead by reading up on the job in advance. Know what skills employers are looking for in their workers and sharpen your own skills. The more knowledge you have from the get-go, the better chance you have to make a lasting first impression.

3. BE RELIABLE

Reliability is essential for workers interested in starting a career in construction. Working in construction involves taking directions, being flexible, and making timely decisions. Your reputation starts with your reliability. Be on time, follow through on orders, and put in the effort. By consistently following through on expectations, you will prove yourself to be a reliable worker and valuable member of the company you work for.

PERSISTANCE PAYS

Be persistent in your quest for gaining knowledge. Construction may start out as a job, but with the right attitude and work ethic, it can evolve into a career that you are passionate about. In time, your work can become your craft. Be persistent even when the job is tough. You will reap therewards of your persistence later.

4. BE RESPECTFUL

Construction work is tough and can be stressful at times. Maintaining a positive and respectful attitude toward co-workers and supervisors will ensure that you have a good relationship with the people you work with from day to day. By developing a reputation as a respectful worker, you earn credibility with your boss as well as longevity for your career.

In any job, your attitude can make or break you! A positive attitude towards your work and the people you interact with, can go a long way. When things do not work out as smoothly as you think they will, and they won’t, you can choose to focus on the positive or the negative. Only one of those choices can be productive. Negative attitudes can destroy relationships and productivity,so think carefully before you act or speak.

5. BE SAFE

Safety is the number one priority in any construction job. Safety inspections can occur anytime and you need to be sure you are ready. Take safety training seriously and always follow safety guidelines, no matter what. In doing so, you can avoid unwanted citations and actually save lives. Safety courses are available on a variety of topics.

Here are some training courses you can take to be prepared for safety in a variety of areas:

10 Hour Construction Course starting a career in construction

10 Hour General Industry Course

30 Hour Construction Course

HAZWOPER Training Course

Additionally, you can get free resources, which are available at https://www.osha10hourtraining.com/. Browse through our site to find additional courses that will help you succeed in your career.

6. KEEP LEARNING

The more you learn, you are likely to realize that there is always something new to learn. Improvements can always be made. To achieve success, keep learning. Do not settle for mediocrity or just “good enough.” Read up on the latest news and trends, so that you are well-informed as you are starting a career in construction. Update your working knowledge of your trade by regularly enrolling in courses that get you the training you need to be successful. Recognize your full potential and challenge yourself to grow in your trade or area of interest. Begin reaching your dreams by enrolling in a course today.

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