Is construction a good career path? Why or why not?

building a career in construction

As each industry evolves with society and technology, one common theme that is asked of us as recruiters is whether or not construction is a good career path. This question expands across all industries, but since we are heavily focused on construction recruitment let’s look at this in more detail.

Construction as an industry is one that will never cease to exist. In some shape or format, there will always be a need and demand for skilled construction workers. The construction industry is what enables our society to travel through countries as we do, as well as have the homes and infrastructure that we have. 

Construction as an industry is essential. However, that does not mean it is right for you. Consider all that is involved in construction and decide whether or not construction is a good career path for you. 

The pros and cons of working in construction

Each industry, each role, has its own good things and bad things. It all depends on what you are looking for and what you are happy to do in order to work within a role you enjoy. 

Construction career paths are not immune to this either. Each person’s preference ultimately drives whether or not they enjoy an aspect of their role. Some prefer to work outdoors, while others prefer to do a desk job. 

The construction industry has a vast number of jobs and each is different. Read in more detail about the pros and cons of construction, but take it with a grain of salt. What you enjoy and like will ultimately be different to someone else. 

Job opportunities in construction 

There are a wide variety of job opportunities in the construction industry. The first thing to consider is which avenue you want to work in. 

There are various entry level positions available within the construction industry. Such as: 

  • Labourers 
  • Ground workers 
  • Finishing floormen

Opportunities are always available within the construction industry due to the continued demand and development of key parts of society. Working with a recruitment agent will open you up to all the possible job opportunities available within the industry. 

How to build a career in construction

The way one person builds a career in construction will vary depending on their age, skills, qualifications and experience. For some, they began working in construction from an early age and continued to expand based on the opportunities provided to them.

Others decided on a more direct career path through specific qualifications gained at college and university. Another way into construction work is by working with an apprenticeship scheme. This will provide you with the ability to learn on the job and gain the experience required to continue your career.

There is no right or wrong way into building a career in construction. The important thing to do is research the part of the industry you wish to work in and tailor your opportunities around that. 

Continue working on key skills to help you grow within the industry and develop your career. You can do this by going on all relevant training courses, and asking if there are any other opportunities available for you to expand your knowledge. 

Employers are keen to help people develop their skills as it ultimately benefits the business in the long run.

Here at FBR, our construction recruitment specialists are able to help you find the role that is right for you. Helping you check your qualifications, experience and ultimately guide you into the right career path. Contact our team today or view our jobs board for current vacancies.



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Red flags in interviews | What you should look out for in your next job interview

All job interviews can be daunting for candidates, many feel like they are put under interrogation and have to perform to be in with a chance of securing a second interview or job offer. 

While it is currently an employees market, which means there are many jobs on offer. That doesn’t always mean green flags. There are several things we have heard from candidates about worrying red flags in interviews. So in the spirit of being honest and shedding the truth about our industry, let’s look at things you should look out for in your next job interview. 

Vague responses 

If a potential employer is unable to answer your questions with clarity it is something to worry about. While you may wish to reword your question to help achieve a more detailed response, it might not be enough. 

As a candidate, you need to know all the information that is necessary to help you make a decision. If a potential employer is giving vague answers to simple questions such as salary information, company policies, benefits, as well as the tasks you will be expected to do in that role. It’s a red flag of the highest degree.

Worrying work culture

Work culture can be a fantastic part of working for a company. After all, we spend the majority of our time working so it is important that we get along with our colleagues as well as enjoy the time we spend working at a company. 

Worrying work culture can be anything from comments like “We don’t take our lunch breaks we’re too busy”. Another term which seems to be worrying people across social media is “we’re like a family”. This can be a red flag if companies are using this excuse to overload employees with work or guilt trip them into not using their annual leave because the “family” needs you. 

Work culture is great, when it benefits the employee as well as the company. Don’t mistake a pingpong table for work culture. 

Misaligned beliefs

One of the most common reasons why people leave a job isn’t because of salary or the job itself. But for misaligned beliefs. If a potential employer isn’t showing the same beliefs that you have, for example, work life balance, flexibility, ethics, etc, it won’t work out in the long run.

Working for a company is kind of like a relationship, you need to make sure you are suited to the role and the company for it to truly work out for everyone involved. 

Subverting the true details of a job role

Any company that is subverting the true details of a role just to get candidates to interview is a huge red flag. 

As a candidate, you need to know exactly what role you are applying for and what would be expected of you. If a company isn’t honest from the get-go, it’s not a great start for a good working relationship.

How to deal with red flags during an interview

So we’ve looked at some of the most common red flags candidates face, the question then becomes what can you do? There are a couple of things you can do before you head into an interview. 

Speak with a recruitment agent

Working with a reliable recruitment agency can be extremely beneficial for candidates. There are many clauses that recruiters have in the contracts they create when working with a company and those can also protect the candidate. 

Recruitment agencies are built on finding the best candidates for the right roles. This means there has been some pre-vetting done for the job as well as ensuring that the agents understand what the company is looking for. 

Prepare for your interview 

This is something you will do without question, however, beyond the basic preparation of looking into a company and making notes. Prepare by understanding what you are looking for from a role. Know what you need and narrow it down into things you need, want, and are nice to have in a job role. 

If you ever feel uncomfortable during an interview you can leave or not answer a question if it is inappropriate. If you are working with a recruitment agency always make sure you consult them about the interview and anything that was inappropriate. 

At FBR, we focus on finding the right jobs for the right people. If you are looking for a new role, view our jobs board today or contact us now. 



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