Sure, as the owner of a construction firm, you get to be your own boss, but construction is a very stressful occupation. As a small business owner, you have payroll, taxes and getting new clients to think about. With the construction labor shortage, it can be really difficult to keep your team together. Every building holds a few surprises and homeowners don’t always understand delays. Then there’s dealing with homeowners who often change their minds or have trouble making the hundreds of decisions that go into completing a home.
75%-90% of ailments that send patients to their doctor can be traced back to stress. OSHA recognizes stress as a known workplace hazard that costs the US more than $300 billion every year. As a contractor, you can do much to prevent stress and alleviate it so that you don’t become another statistic.
There is much you can do to streamline your operation.
- Have a process that you share with all your employees. Knowing what they should be doing and when will reduce the risk of miscommunication and mistakes.
- Take time to train new crew members. Taking time to properly train them can reduce mistakes and accidents.
- Communication is key. Have regular meetings with clients and get everything in writing. It takes a little more time to do it this way, but it protects you and reduces conflict should a disagreement arise.
- Be organized. Go over plans with designers prior to starting the build. Order everything you need to avoid delays. Clean up and sort waste every day so your site is clean and safe.
- Take good care of yourself. Eat well, exercise and take time off regularly.
- Pay workers fairly and offer training and advancement options. Having a positive work environment will reduce everyone’s stress and ensure your crew stick with you.