Hi, I am Taylor Maurer Senior Managing Partner and Founder of Heavy Civil Resource Consultants and today I wanted to share some recent feedback we received from polling our vast network of civil construction professionals regarding Quality of Life in the Industry. The results are an affirmation of what we suspected but all the same important to recognize and address in an industry that struggles to attract and retain talent as a whole and at the company level. Let’s dive in……
In the fast-paced world of the construction industry, the pursuit of a better quality of life has become a common aspiration among employees. We have conducted multiple polls to delve deeper into the challenges faced by professionals in this field and the factors that motivate them to consider a career move. One of the recurring themes that emerged from our polls is the desire for a better work-life balance. When we asked participants to describe their feelings about work-life balance in the construction industry, a staggering 70% responded that it was poor. Only 8% believed that the work-life balance was good, while 22% considered it average. These numbers paint a clear picture of the struggles faced by construction professionals when it comes to finding a harmonious equilibrium between their personal and professional lives.
In a separate poll, we asked participants about their average working hours. The responses were quite eye-opening. Only 4% reported working less than 40 hours, while 28% worked between 40 and 49 hours per week. A significant portion, 44%, revealed that they put in 50 to 59 hours of work on a regular basis. Perhaps most strikingly, 25% of participants reported working over 60 hours every week. With these results, it is understandable that such a high number of construction professionals rank work-life balance as poor in the industry. Not only are the hours long and demanding but we find that most construction professionals are paid a base salary so whether you are working 40, 50, or over 60 hours a week you are bringing home the same paycheck.
To further understand the reasons behind this sentiment, we asked participants what would be the top reason for them to make a career move. The majority, 48%, highlighted the pursuit of a better quality of life as their primary motivation. This indicates that many employees in the construction industry are willing to explore new opportunities if it means improving their overall well-being. Additionally, 37% of respondents cited better compensation and benefits as a motivating factor, showing that financial rewards also play a significant role in career decisions. A smaller percentage, 14%, mentioned the desire for a new supervisor or a more favorable company culture.
It is evident that the construction industry presents unique challenges when it comes to maintaining a healthy work-life balance. The long hours, demanding schedules, and high-pressure environments contribute to the majority of professionals feeling dissatisfied with their work-life balance.
Addressing these concerns and finding ways to improve work-life balance in the construction industry should be a priority for employers and industry leaders. By implementing policies and practices that promote a healthier balance between work and personal life, companies can attract and retain talented professionals, ultimately leading to a more satisfied and productive workforce. In conclusion, the polls conducted highlight the pressing need for better work-life balance in the construction industry. With the majority of professionals expressing dissatisfaction and the pursuit of a better quality of life as a primary motivator for career moves, it is crucial for the industry to take action. By prioritizing the well-being of their employees and creating a more conducive work environment, construction companies can not only improve employee satisfaction but also enhance productivity and overall success.
