How can you use communication to motivate and engage construction project teams?

Knowing your team is a very important step before you decide on what to do in a team. Their strengths, weaknesses, adaptability to change, self confidence as well as ability to communicate with others has to be taken into consideration before assigning any tasks to each team member. I always let the strong ones roam freely & guide the weak ones specifically on room for improvements, while encouraging inputs from them which can build their confidence and improves their communication over time. Remember, respect is earned not given.

-Para empezar, tener reuniones recurrentes: No es bueno que sean reuniones largas. El líder del equipo deber concretar con quién reunirse y por qué motivos. Y, de este modo, no aburrir al resto. -Dar visibilidad a quién corresponda: A menudo ocurre que al ser una sola persona la que da la cara ante sus superiores, sus subalternos no llegan a comprender la importancia de ciertos detalles. Y también lo contrario, dar demasiada importancia a algo que no lo tiene. -Siguiendo el punto anterior, compartir elogios y reprimendas: Los errores se producen, se quiera o no. Lo único que se puede hacer es anotarlos y tener en cuenta la experiencia. No es admisible cometer un mismo error más de una vez. -En definitiva: Conseguir una información fluida.

I had a project on a tight, urban site with challenging logistics, and a high probability of a safety incident. Knowing that the team faced an uphill battle of keeping everyone on the site engaged, instead of trying the standard techniques, we decided to make safety a contest. Subcontractors earned points for completing their safety tasks (Tool Box Talks, JHA's, proper PPE), and competed for prizes. We also hosted a lunch if the job met certain safety goals. The guys went crazy for it, and we worked in excess of 650,000 man hours without a lost time or recordable incident. The message to me was clear: set your expectations at the beginning and provide meaningful incentives, and solving challenges can be fun.

Communicate clear project goals, objectives, and expectations to the team. Ensure that everyone understands the project's vision, timeline, budget, and desired outcomes. Clear goals provide direction and purpose, motivating team members to work towards a common objective.

In the dynamic world of construction projects, knowing your team inside out is like having a sturdy foundation. Some of the benefits are; Boosted Productivity: When you grasp your colleagues’ work styles—whether they thrive solo or in collaboration—you can create tailored environments. Rapport Building: Over time, you’ll build rapport with your team. Trust increases, and you gain insights into their quirks, habits, and preferences. Strengths Unleashed: Each team member is a unique. By identifying their strengths, you empower them. Weaknesses Addressed: Like a blueprint, understanding weaknesses helps you reinforce areas prone to cracks. This helps develop your team to achieve even better outcomes.

This is where some people in a leadership position usually get it wrong. Sentences like “do it properly” “asap” “rectify it immediately” might sound normal if you are the one barking the instructions, but to some people whom are listening they might not know what is “proper” or “how soon is asap” or “how and what to rectify”. Always assume that others do not have enough knowledge to do certain things the correct way that you will need to specifically mention things in order or in details. It helps to clarify things and set a direction that others can use as a guidance.

lear and concise communication acts as the cement that binds it all together. Here’s why it matters: Alignment: When you communicate goals succinctly, team members align their efforts. It’s like tuning an orchestra—everyone plays in harmony. Unity: Clarity fosters a shared purpose. Imagine a blueprint where every line connects seamlessly. That unity fuels motivation and engagement. Efficiency: Like well-organized scaffolding, concise messages prevent confusion. Team members absorb information swiftly and stay on track. Cohesion: When you cut through the noise, the team rallies. Conciseness motivates action, propelling everyone toward project success.

O feedback é uma ferramenta fundamental para gestão de equipes, no entanto, na minha experiência vejo um resultado fenomenal na aplicação do feedfoward. O feedfoward foca nas lacunas e oportunidades que o profissional tem para assumir as próximas oportunidades na empresa, direciona a carreira e mostra como a empresa o vê no médio e longo prazo. O uso desta ferramenta aumenta não só a retenção, mas o alinhamento, engajamento e a busca direcionada pelos resultados.

Estratégia clara e na mão de toda liderança, controlar e gerir com uma base robusta de planejamento, e realizar as reuniões com transparência com todos os envolvidos!! #gestaodeobraeficiente

I find that there are several benefits to feedback; Feedback Fuel: Constructive feedback isn’t just a tool; it’s fuel. When team members receive timely input, they fine-tune their performance. Inclusive Participation: A project site isn’t a solo act; it’s a symphony. Encourage everyone to share their notes. Whether it’s the crane operator suggesting a smoother lift or the surveyor spotting a potential pitfall, their voices matter. Boosted Morale: When team members feel heard, morale soars. Recognition for their insights and contributions creates a positive rhythm. Continuous Improvement: Participation isn’t a one-time gig; Regular communication channels allow for ongoing dialogue. Adjustments, tweaks, and innovations emerge.

Honest and open communication is key to addressing conflicts and issues effectively. When something isn't right, have the courage to respectfully disagree, even if your manager requests otherwise. Cultivate empathy to understand everyone's perspective and support your arguments with data or evidence. Lastly, commit to the team's decisions and work towards common objectives that contribute to the company's growth or client satisfaction.

Practice open communication where everyone can contribute & criticize, when you encourage honesty it will open doors to efficiency, creativity & productivity.