ForConstructionPros.com

The National Pavement Maintenance Exposition this past January delivered again! Not only did I hear many compliments about many of the educational sessions, but as a speaker I also found those in attendance to be more inquisitive about improving their businesses.

One issue that surfaced in several of my classes involved the future workforce. Finding good workers continues to be a challenge for most contractors in the paving and pavement maintenance industry. Based on our firm's experience, all construction contractors are finding it more challenging to find and keep good workers.

Developing your "bench strength" should be a high priority since you cannot aggressively grow your company without workers who are currently performing outstanding work but also that you are developing future champions. Let me share with you a few tips toward strengthening your future performers.

1. Formalize the work process

Document each work process that your company executes. For example, detail each step involved with sweeping a parking lot, sealcoating a parking lot, making a parking lot safe for work, and even stocking tool or utility trucks. Formalizing such processes makes it easier to train and educate new workers to how you do things at your company.

2. Mentor New Workers

Don't leave new workers alone to fend for themselves. For many new and inexperienced workers it may take many months to learn simple processes. Pairing a new worker with a more experienced worker, encouraging the more seasoned worker to educate and encourage the new worker, can cut the learning time by as much as fifty percent. Additionally, the new worker will often grow in their loyalty for your company.