The best skills and training for new construction businesses.

In Quarter 3 of 2022, the construction industry accounted for 243, 000 employees in KwaZulu-Natal alone (Statistica, 2023). The construction industry in South Africa is expected to grow by 5.0% to reach R232, 263 million in 2023, with continued growth in construction output which is expected to reach R276, 797.9 million by 2027 (Research and Markets, 2023).

The construction industry is complex and employs unskilled and semi-skilled workers, as well as skilled tradespeople, professional/technical and management staff. Therefore, a variety of skills and knowledge training programmes are needed to ensure a strong team to complete successful construction projects.

Managing a construction business requires knowledge of the building code, worksite management and pricing negotiation, as well as knowledge of quality control processes, to name a few. There is also a wide range of skills that a successful Project Manager should possess to ensure that projects run smoothly. Here are the top five areas of knowledge and skills required in a construction business.

1. Leadership and teamwork skills
Working well in a team and exhibiting strong leadership skills are important for the success of a construction project that requires hundreds, if not thousands of daily interactions between workers and clients. This is often an inherent trait; however, it can be learned and fine-tuned.

2. Communication and customer service skills
Effective communication is essential for reducing risks, tackling issues and avoiding accidents that may occur on construction projects. Strong customer service skills will ensure satisfied clients and third-party providers. Both skills allow for the smooth running of your projects.

3. Continued Learning
Technology is constantly changing. Being proactive and keeping up to date with the latest knowledge of products, machinery and specifically computer programmes can promote more effective decision-making and allow for cost savings.

4. A solid business plan with a great team
Understanding the need for your services and finding a gap in the market determines the success of your construction business. If your business is competitive and specialises in an area where there is enough demand for your services, your business will thrive. Having strong team support in this area will allow your business to function effectively while you focus on new strategic plans. 

5. Effective training 
Choosing key training modules can help build a successful career, keep staff safe on-site and provide staff with confidence to do their job well. Some core training for new construction businesses includes the required Health and Safety training, Legal Liability and Construction Regulations, Construction Contract Documents, and Tendering for Construction Contracts, all of which will help in securing work for your business.  

Conclusion
Learning is a key aspect of personal and professional development.  Learning can take place through self-study, mentorship, on-the-job experience and formal training sessions. Master Builders KwaZulu-Natal Training Academy can guide you on how best to support your business with various types of training. Call 031 831 3238 or email training@masterbuilders.co.za to learn more.

Heidi Kilian
Head: Training Academy

References

SME South Africa. (2022). How to start a construction company [online]. Available from: https://smesouthafrica.co.za/how-to-start-a-construction-company/. Accessed: [13 July 2023].

Statistica. (2023). Number of people employed in the construction industry in South Africa in Q3 2022, by region [online]. Available from: https://www.statista.com/statistics/1129833/number-of-people-employed-in-construction-in-south-africa-by-region/. Accessed: [13 July 2023].

Research and Markets. (2023) South Africa Construction Industry Report 2023: Output is Expected to Reach ZAR 276,797.9 million by 2027 [online]. Available from: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/south-africa-construction-industry-report-123300887. Accessed: [13 July 2023].