Simple Tips To Advance as a Construction Labourer

Everybody on a construction site loves a good labourer. Their contribution is valued and in demand.

If you want to enjoy your work, get ahead or move up to a more skilled role or trade, these five simple tips are worth their weight in gold.

1.  Be Quick to Lend a Hand

As a general labourer in construction you’ll never go wrong by keeping an eye out for people who could use a hand holding or lifting something.

Being quick to respond and genuinely willing to help others perform their task will soon have you noticed and respected on a construction site.

2.  Stay Busy

If you’ve completed a task or run out of things to do, pick up a broom and start sweeping.

Cleaning up and making things safe is appreciated by everyone and will not go unnoticed. You’ll be surprised at how good a clean job site can look and feel.

Staying busy is a great way to show commitment and gain respect as a labourer.

3.  Ask Questions

Show an interest in all aspects of the job.

Ask lots of questions, pay attention to the answers and get more specific with your questions over time.

Many experienced people in construction can appear tough on the outside, but the fact is most take pride in their work and love to share their knowledge with those keen to learn.

You’ll soon discover these people on every construction site.

“If you’ve run out of things to do, pick up a broom and start sweeping.”

4.  Own Your Mistakes

If you stuff up, own it. Take responsibility and learn. You’ll be a better and more respected labourer for it.

Everybody will make mistakes, everybody. Just accept it. It’s about learning and moving forward.

Don’t take criticism too personally, but when it’s warranted, listen, learn and show respect.

5.  Be Dependable and Show Good Character

Show up on time and be ready to work.

Be visible and available. If you’ve finished a task, look or ask for something else to do.

Personal phone use or sitting down are reserved for smoko or lunch breaks. Simple.

Feel good about yourself and do the right thing when people aren’t looking. This builds good character that people in construction notice.

Final Thoughts

Of course there’s much more that we can cover on safety, tools, PPE and more, but keeping the above core points in mind throughout your work day, will set you up to succeed in labouring and beyond.