7 Tips for a Construction Project Manager to Run a Smooth Operation

If you are a Construction Project Manager, you wear many hard hats. From handling the budget to managing the team and making sure that everything is environmentally friendly. There are countless tasks to consider and manage, but I’ve assembled seven very important tips for a Construction Project Manager to run a smooth operation.

1. Budget in a smart way

This is one of the hardest things to do and people often complain that their construction project managers go over budget. This is why you need to plan your budget and stretch it in a way that covers all of your expenses without going overboard and stressing out your clients.

Start with a realistic budget and add about 10% (to account for any) additional and unexpected costs that may arise. After that, find a good, reliable supplier that won’t cost you any additional money than you need to spend and plan your budget according to his fees.

2. Plan everything

Before construction starts, you need to plan each step of the way. Get all of the permissions, deal with legal aspects, hire quality workers, and handle all the bits and pieces before you present your ideas and plans for the most effective operation. Those plans should be shared with each party involved in the construction of the building to ensure everyone’s on the same page. To have a smooth operation, you first need to dedicate time to crafting an efficient and actionable plan. Look at the big picture with emphasis on unexpected events and expenses you might occur along the way.  Then put the pieces together and get to work.

3. Communicate with your team

Communication is especially crucial in construction because any mistakes can cause a number of issues. That’s why you need to have a good flow of communication with your team and stakeholders. Let them know that you are open to suggestions, new ideas, complaints/constructive criticism, etc.

Be transparent and share information with your staff.  These open lines of communication need to be established and maintained throughout the entire process from beginning to end to ensure your team is on board with what is expected from stakeholders and there aren’t any surprises.

4. Create rules and tasks for all team members

Once everyone has their list of tasks to be completed and some basic rules are established, there will be a clear understanding of what is expected and mistakes can be mitigated.

A good idea would be to incorporate the client’s priorities and intentions for that project. This way, everyone will be on the same page.

Michael Green, an HR specialist from State of writing, explains, “Individual tasks and rules should be given to each employee. They are a team but with everyone having their own tasks written down and explained, together with goals and client’s priorities will help everyone understand the mission.”

5. Make sure everyone is safe

Safety should be your priority. Every employee should stick to the code of conduct if they want to have a safe and fruitful cooperation. Ensure that hazardous areas are properly labeled and that workers in that area are protected. Also, make sure that every piece of equipment is of high quality and working properly to avoid accidents which otherwise could have been prevented.

Provide your workers with good and protective clothing and footwear.

6. Be a team player

If you really want to have a successful relationship with your employees, it’s best that you view them as a team, treat them as colleagues, with respect and listen to them. If you see that some of them are having issues, talk to them, be open to criticism and make them feel comfortable sharing with you.

Also, it might be a good idea to organize (team building activities such as) dinners together or go out for drinks from time to time to improve your relationship in a less stressful environment.

Chloe Moore, an HR manager from Resumention, confirms, “Being a team player is an important thing to do no matter what your job is and especially with construction. Make sure that you start off as team player and treat all of your employees equally. Joke around with them when appropriate but maintain a professional relationship when necessary.”

7. Look at the big picture

This detail can’t be overlooked.  Seeing the big picture and being able to communicate that vision to your team will only benefit the end result.   An important aspect of the big picture is decreasing the impact on the environment.  Working to decrease environmental impact will help to create a sustainable environment for citizens of the community which will also help to gain respect of the company.

‘Knowing what the end result will be and sharing that with your employees is a good way to increase morale and have a deeper understanding of what will the building be for and understand what the details will amount to, says Christine Potter from Academized.

Conclusion

Even though construction work can be challenging at times, having a good team and being a leader is always going to give you great results. Follow these tips to have a smooth and successful construction operation.

Brenda Berg is a professional with over 15 years of experience in business management, marketing and entrepreneurship. Consultant and tutor for college students and entrepreneurs at Oxessays. She believes that constant learning is the only way to success. You can visit her personal blog at Letsgoandlearn.com.