
You never get a second chance to make a first impression. Contractors and subcontractors judge your character the moment you walk into an interview. Your co-workers make their own decisions the first time you walk on the job site. While it’s true that you can’t control people’s thoughts or opinions, you can control that first impression.
When you’re the new face on a job site, your co-workers have no idea what to expect. Showing them that you are a reliable, hard worker lets them know that they can count on you to keep the project moving – whether it’s getting the drywall hung in time or cutting angles with precise measurements. When you excel in your trade and get your tasks completed on time, management knows that they made the right choice in hiring you. On top of this, going through each day with a smile and a friendly attitude gives them all confidence that you are a vital part of the team.
It all starts, however, back at that good first impression. And, a good first impression is one of the best ways to turn a temporary job into permanent employment.
Top 8 Ways to Make a Solid First Impression
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Arrive on time (or even early)
Don’t let unexpected traffic delays turn you into a worker filled with excuses for being late. Being on time for a construction project not only impacts your job, but the jobs of others who can’t continue their tasks until you finish yours.
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Have a positive attitude
Everyone experiences first day jitters, especially on a new job site. But don’t let that nervousness affect your attitude. Be positive and confident, show enthusiasm for the job and you’ll quickly become part of the team.
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Learn names
Your co-workers are more than the electricians, skilled laborers and heavy equipment operators – they all have names. Don’t just learn their job titles; learn their names. That’s the first step to gaining their trust.
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Work full days
Avoid leaving early, especially during those first few weeks. Stay for the full workday, even if that means doing a few menial tasks like sweeping the site or hauling around lumber.
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Show up every day
Being there every day is an incredibly effective way to create a positive impression in the subcontractor’s memory. Now, that doesn’t mean you should come to work when you are so ill that an accident could occur. However, you can make yourself quite a valuable asset by seeing an entire project completed from start to finish.
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Listen more, talk less
A great way to get to build trust with new co-workers is to be a good listener. Wait until they offer tidbits about their families and hobbies, and then ask questions. Don’t pry, but show interest, especially with the men and women you work most closely with.
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Take initiative
When a task has been left undone, do it. When the boss needs a volunteer to take on some extra work, raise your hand. If you see an area that needs improvement or could be run more efficiently, take it on (without stepping on toes). Taking the initiative shows you are invested in the project and the company.
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Be yourself
Change in careers is always challenging, both for the new employee and the construction crew. It’s pretty easy to spot someone who is putting on a front, and if your co-workers feel you aren’t being genuine, they may never accept you as one of them. Your first impression should be both your best self and your real self.
When you find a job that fits just right, making a good first impression is so much easier that it’s almost natural. That’s why at CCS Construction Staffing, we focus on matching job seekers with companies and construction sites that fit your talents and goals. We pre-screen all of our candidates so that the transition is quick and smooth. Looking for a new opportunity? We can offer you contract jobs, temporary positions and temp-to-hire spots that fit your needs, wants and goals. Give us a call and find out how we can help you turn a good first impression into a lasting, permanent one.