Project managers play a critical role in every construction company, regardless of its size or scope. Over the years we’ve identified three must-have qualities of successful project managers in the commercial construction industry.
We’re going to share those qualities and provide bonus tips to help construction hiring managers that are trying to source high-caliber PMs.
Let’s get started with a definition of construction project management from the business gurus at Investopedia:
Project management is often associated with fields in engineering and construction and, more lately, healthcare and information technology (IT), which typically have a complex set of components that have to be completed and assembled in a set fashion to create a functioning product.
That’s an excellent definition. Now, what about those key qualities that construction management teams should look for?
Here are three qualities to look for:
Construction PMs need to be able to multitask and solve problems simultaneously.
The Investopedia definition points out that project managers need to be able to solve complex problems. They often have to solve multiple problems simultaneously. Deadlines, tight schedules, and goals are always looming on the horizon.
We point out in a previous post that it’s important for construction companies and HR professionals to always be upskilling their skilled trades employees. When you find a good PM, make sure you give them the opportunity to advance their skill level with training courses and certifications.
Excellent communications skills are required in the construction project management field.
PMs must possess exceptional communications skills. These professionals communicate at the executive level down through all levels of management and ultimately to the individual skilled tradespeople performing the day-to-day tasks in the field.
This requires skilled, experienced communicators who understand all aspects of the construction process, the trades involved, tight schedules, materials and supplier management, etc.
In today’s world of construction technology, PMs need to be highly skilled with project management tools and software.
Construction PMs need to know how to use technology, like spreadsheets and PM software apps. to measure costs before and after projects start, scheduling and task management software tools, specialized project management apps, etc.
And what about that bonus tip? Our team of professional staffing and recruiting professionals knows how to prescreen qualified candidates for your project management positions.
We know what it takes to hire the right PM who will make sure your projects are completed on time and on budget.
Get the skilled construction PMs you need for the busy season from our team at Skilled Trades Partners.
Whether you need temporary, specialized talent for a project or want to add skilled tradespeople to your permanent workforce, we can provide employees who are skilled, vetted, and ready to work. Contact us today at one of our four New England office locations.