The Top 10 Tips To (Delivering) Tantalising Toolbox Talks

15 years working on construction sites in the UK and overseas has given David the opportunity to meet and work for some ‘brilliant’ and ‘not-so-brilliant’ managers.

The difference in the two types and the varying spectrum in between ultimately comes down to one thing – COMMUNICATION.

If you think about it…………………..when are we actually taught how to communicate, and by communication I do not mean language.

We’re talking about the ability to influence and inspire, to get things done through over people and connect with them on an emotional level.

Most of this type of communication is learnt through a combination of what we experience from our peers and a process of trial and error.

The problem with learning from your peers is that they might not be doing it correct in the first place.

We believe that “People Don’t Quit Jobs, They Quit Bosses” and this happens everyday in the construction industry. It is no secret that the UK is experiencing a skills shortage when it comes to construction workers. It is also no secret that people leave construction to join other more attractive industries. This transition could be for a number of reasons but a major one in my opinion is due to the way you’re treated at work by your boss.

To attract people to the construction industry we must train our managers in how to do the job they have been asked to do. We cannot trust that their experience up to now has been a suitable one. There seems to be a pattern in construction of people who are great at their trade being promoted into management roles. That’s a great start as the newly appointed manager can pass on their knowledge BUT how that knowledge is passed on is equally as important.

Communication is key.