Number One - Focus On Actions Not Personality Traits
When a construction worker is causing trouble you need to "have a little chat" and talk with them about the results of their actions. Focus on the position or project and the specific actions that are causing the problems. “You need to stop doing _____, and start doing _____” is more effective than playing the blame game or lecturing. “You're screwing _____ up” or “Why can't you get your work done right and on time?” puts the worker in a defensive mood and can lead to a boxing match without time to sell tickets and put up a beer garden.
Number Two - Don't Spook The Herd
Construction workers that cause problems are challenging the authority of the chain of command. If you suspect they are trying to destroy your company there is a good chance you are right. If they are a problem from the first day of their employment consider getting rid of them immediately. A good rule of thumb is: "If you think you should fire someone, you are already fifteen minutes too late". Your construction company has to work together as a team and even one trouble maker will drag your company down. See my discussion on Leveling Up Makes Money. Every construction company I have been involved with had problem employees that BS their way through the hiring process or suddenly became a problem employee at some point. The responsibility falls on management to deal with it and after you do you will likely hear from the other construction workers how glad they are the bad apple is gone.
Number Three - It Never Hurts To Be Polite
Discuss the issues privately, never, ever in front of anyone else. Show some respect and it will go a long way in keeping things calm and cool. Be careful with too much honesty. Telling a construction worker what you think of their personal lifestyle, beliefs and habits is just not smart. I have met a few people who felt it was their duty to "Tell it like it is" and yes it is true plastic surgery has come a long way in helping those people get fixed up.
I have a lot more to share with you so if you are interested in having a conversation about how we can help you grow your construction company sales and profits please contact us at 206-361-3950 or sharie@fasteasyaccounting.com or leave a comment below.
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About The Author:
Sharie DeHart, QPA is the co-founder of Business Consulting And Accounting in Lynnwood Washington. She is the leading expert in managing outsourced construction bookkeeping and accounting services companies and cash management accounting for small construction companies across the USA. She encourages Contractors and Construction Company Owners to stay current on their tax obligations and offers insights on how to manage the remaining cash flow to operate and grow their construction company sales and profits so they can put more money in the bank. http://www.fasteasyaccounting.com/sharie-dehart/
