What a Senior Human Resources Manager at Precision Construction Services Wishes They Had Known Before Entering the Construction Industry
Stephanie, a Senior Human Resources Manager, wishes she had prioritized "getting out into the field" sooner, as firsthand observation of job sites is crucial for understanding "the pain points of all employees," particularly those whose busy schedules hinder feedback. This proactive approach allows for better problem-solving and shows appreciation for field staff, improving employee relations and overall company success.
Project Management, Problem-Solving, Communication, Leadership, Workplace Challenges
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Stephanie McDonald
Sr. Human Resources Manager
Precision Construction Services
Cal Poly - SLO
Communications
Architecture, Construction & Design
Human Resources (HR)
Honors Student, Greek Life Member, Student Athlete
Video Highlights
1. The importance of visiting job sites and building relationships with field employees to understand their challenges and concerns firsthand.
2. The need for proactive communication and problem-solving to address the pain points of field employees, who may not always have time to provide feedback.
3. The value of regularly visiting job sites (e.g., once a quarter) to stay connected with the needs of field employees and the overall project progress
Transcript
What have you learned about this role that you wish someone would have told you before you entered the industry?
Something I wish I had been told and adapted earlier on, I'd heard it anecdotally, but I wasn't able to fully put into practice until about a year into my role in the construction industry: getting out into the field as early and as often as possible.
By "the field," I mean visiting our construction projects and going to the job site. It's about meeting with the superintendents and field engineers who are boots on the ground, seeing the projects, and understanding the struggles of these field employees.
As the HR leader, it's my job to know and understand the pain points of all employees. It's easy to do this in the office when everyone is accessible and meetings can be scheduled.
However, for those in the construction industry out in the field, they are constantly on the go, walking the job site, meeting with subcontractors and clients. Having a physical presence out there makes them feel important, which they are, and it allows me to understand their pain points.
This presence enables me to collaborate with leadership in the office on solutions. These solutions can either intervene in or alleviate the pain points they are experiencing in the field.
Often, our field supervisors, whether they are superintendents or field engineers, are so busy with their day-to-day tasks that they don't have time to sit back and provide feedback. My role is to be proactive, and I truly wish I had had the time earlier on to get out there more.
Now, I make it a point to visit one of our job sites once a quarter. This ensures I'm constantly staying in touch with what we're doing and what the people need.