You’re all set with your vision for your next construction project! Now comes the tough part of finding the perfect construction project manager to work with.
It’s a decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly, but it doesn’t have to be a painful process. Knowing what to look out for when interviewing candidates can help speed up the process and narrow your decisions significantly.
Here are some top qualities to consider in a good construction project manager.
Construction Project Management Should Be Organized
You don’t have to know what program or method a construction project manager uses to be organized. You just have to get the sense that they have everything together.
Organization skills mean juggling multiple tasks and knowing the status of each one at any given time. The more organized they are, the better the chances are of your construction project being completed timely and within your budget.
Communication Skills Are Critical
Good communication skills are not something you can confirm on a construction project manager’s resume.
You should evaluate their communication skills beginning the moment you contact them. If they don’t answer immediately, they should call you back the same day. And if an appointment is scheduled, they should show up on time.
With high-end construction projects, every detail matters. If you are unable to get in touch with the construction project manager at any time, then it will lead to unnecessary stress and frustration. Those headaches are not worth it, so emphasize quality communication when interviewing candidates.
They Have Good Relationships With Contractors and Clients
Good construction project management goes beyond simply keeping contractors on task.
When a manager has a good relationship with their contractors, they will work harder and prioritize being timely.
You can also consider asking for client referrals and reaching out to those referrals to get feedback. Your project might take several months or longer, so having a good working relationship with the construction project manager makes things go smoothly.
Time- and Budget-Management Are Top Qualities
Your time and money are two of the most important factors in any construction project. The construction project manager should respect both and have the ability to manage them effectively.
Too many project managers overpromise and underdeliver because they don’t anticipate problems.
There will be unexpected obstacles in virtually every construction project. The difference between a good manager and a bad one is the ability to anticipate these issues and provide proper expectations accordingly.
Construction Project Managers Should Handle Pressure Well
What does a construction project manager do when materials don’t arrive on time? Or if vendors overcharge them?
Good managers will spring into action right away to handle the problem while keeping the project on schedule. Even if they miss a milestone on the project, they will move forward on another component to ensure timelines remain on schedule.
Pressure situations will arise periodically, so it’s important to ask how they succeeded or failed when put into those situations previously.
Gryphon Consulting can easily spot the difference between a good construction project manager and a bad one. When working on a six-figure or larger construction project, you can’t afford to choose the wrong project manager.
As your construction consultant, we will guide you in making the best decisions for your project. We specialize in high-end construction projects and will ensure your project manager has all bases covered.
Don’t hesitate to contact us to learn more about our services and how we can confirm your project runs smoothly.