What to Look for When Hiring Construction Workers? 5 Essential Qualities for a Strong Candidate

The demand for skilled construction workers is at an all-time high, making it crucial to identify candidates with the right blend of adaptability, relevant experience, leadership potential, aligned expectations, and verifiable tenure. Focusing on these five core qualities will streamline your hiring process and help you secure talent capable of driving project success in a competitive market.

How Important is Adaptability in Construction Hiring?

In an industry defined by changing site conditions and evolving technology, adaptability is a non-negotiable trait. Look for candidates who demonstrate problem-solving skills and a willingness to adjust to unforeseen circumstances. This is increasingly important with the rise of AI and other technological advancements in construction. A candidate who is either experienced with these tools or shows a strong aptitude for learning them represents a valuable long-term investment. During the interview, ask about specific instances where they had to pivot quickly on a project to assess this critical skill.

What Constitutes Relevant Project Experience?

Relevant project experience is about more than just years on the job; it's about the specific applicability of a candidate's skills to your projects. Before interviewing, define the non-negotiable qualifications versus the nice-to-have skills for your role. This helps you efficiently assess whether a candidate's background is a match. Furthermore, avoid underestimating the value of transferable skills. A candidate may not check every box but could possess strong foundational skills and the potential to quickly master your specific requirements, saving you time in a tight labor market.

Why Should You Prioritize a Track Record of Project Delivery?

With a significant portion of the skilled workforce nearing retirement, there is a rising demand for candidates with proven leadership experience. Prioritizing individuals who have managed the full life cycle of a project—from initiation to completion—helps build a succession plan for your organization. This is why many companies are implementing leadership development programs to fast-track the growth of promising employees. Highlighting these growth opportunities during the interview process is key to attracting ambitious talent who value long-term career paths.

How Crucial are Aligned Expectations Between Employer and Candidate?

Ensuring alignment on culture, flexibility, and salary is critical to a successful hire, especially in construction. According to a recent ok.com Page survey, 58% of construction professionals cited salary as an essential factor when considering a new role. However, 42% of employers reported difficulty matching candidate salary expectations. This underscores the importance of focusing on candidates whose demands you can realistically meet. Based on our assessment experience, reviewing your base salary compensation every six to twelve months is essential to remain competitive and attract top talent.

What is the Value of Tenure and Strong References?

In an industry facing a widening skills gap, a resume showing project completion and tenure is highly valuable. Candidates with a history of seeing projects through to the end demonstrate commitment and reliability. Credible, relevant references that can validate a candidate's capabilities, work ethic, and project experience are a crucial part of the final hiring decision. These references provide an objective verification of the skills and achievements listed on the resume, offering peace of mind in a competitive hiring environment.

To build a strong construction team, focus on candidates who are adaptable, have directly relevant experience, show leadership potential, have realistic salary expectations, and possess a verifiable work history. These qualities are the foundation for a successful hire who can contribute to your projects immediately and grow with your company long-term.