You don’t have to work in the construction industry long to understand that no project, site or customer is perfect. With so many moving parts, there are plenty of opportunities for delays, miscommunication, or defective workmanship that can delay a construction job.
No matter how poorly a construction project is going, it’s important to remain calm and work to find solutions rather than blow up, typically at the wrong individuals.
Here are some top things to do when construction projects go awry:
Establish Your Mindset Early On For Patience with Any Construction Job
Go into the project with the expectation that schedules will change, additional costs will be expected and sometimes aspects of the workmanship aren’t going to be up to snuff.
Whether it’s a material delay, employees getting sick, injuries, weather, or just about anything else, life happens. However, sometimes some projects are worse than others, and it seems like nothing can go right.
When you enter the project with the mindset of understanding there will be hiccups, you can more easily work to find solutions when they arise.
Avoid Pointing Fingers and Work to Seek Solutions
In most situations, placing blame, at the wrong place and time for any issue won’t provide the project any benefit and remember, it’s not about any one individual, it’s about the success of the project. Instead of focusing on problems, or personal differences, focus on solutions that will bring the project back on track.
This will likely involve setting a meeting, with a clear agenda, with the sole purpose of developing solutions, the focus being the desired outcome of the project.
Every situation is unique, and when you have the mindset of finding solutions rather than pointing fingers, you will move forward.
Be Honest and Realistic
When engaging any member of the team, honesty is foundational. They might not like hearing the difficult truth, but at least they have the information they need to manage expectations.
Remember, issues on any project are a given, but they should not divide your team.
When handled in the appropriate way, it will boost morale and everyone involved benefits.
Stay Positive with Your Team
As an Owner, you need a positive attitude to keep your team encouraged. When things seem to be off the rails, maintain a cheerful attitude as you work through solutions.
Negativity (as is positivity) is contagious. If they see you always being angry or having slumped shoulders, that attitude will pervade the entire project. Your attitude has the power to shape that of the project, so take time at the start of each day to work on your attitude and minset.
This doesn’t mean you gleefully dismiss any and all problems with your project. Instead, acknowledge the problem and focus on solutions positively.
You will be surprised at how much it lifts the spirit of your team, even in the most challenging times.
We have witnessed a lot of issues in our 35 years in the construction industry. We would be happy to help you overcome your challenges and obstacles, so contact us today.