You’re in construction management and want to get promoted. What are some misconceptions you should avoid?

1 Misconception 1: Technical skills are enough

You might think that being good at your trade or specialty is enough to get you promoted, but that's not the case. Construction management is also about leadership, communication, collaboration, and problem-solving. You need to demonstrate that you can manage people, projects, budgets, and risks effectively. You also need to keep up with the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in the industry. To improve your technical and managerial skills, you can seek feedback, mentorship, training, and certification opportunities.

2 Misconception 2: You don't need to network

You might think that networking is not important or relevant for construction management, but that's not true. Networking can help you build relationships, learn from others, find new opportunities, and increase your visibility and credibility. You can network with your colleagues, clients, suppliers, contractors, and other professionals in the industry. You can also join professional associations, attend events, participate in online forums, and share your insights and achievements.

4 Misconception 4: You don't need to innovate

You might think that innovation is not necessary or feasible for construction management, but that's not true. Innovation is essential for improving quality, efficiency, sustainability, and customer satisfaction. You need to be open to new ideas, methods, tools, and solutions that can enhance your performance and competitiveness. You also need to encourage and foster a culture of innovation among your team and stakeholders. You can do this by soliciting feedback, experimenting, learning from failures, and rewarding successes.

5 Misconception 5: You don't need to balance work and life

You might think that working hard and long hours is the only way to get promoted, but that's not true. Working too much can lead to stress, burnout, health problems, and reduced productivity and creativity. You need to balance your work and life priorities, and take care of your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. You can do this by setting realistic goals, managing your time and energy, delegating tasks, taking breaks, and enjoying your hobbies and interests.

6 Misconception 6: You don't need to adapt to change

You might think that sticking to what you know and what works is the best strategy for construction management, but that's not true. Construction management is a constantly changing and evolving field that requires flexibility, agility, and resilience. You need to adapt to change and embrace uncertainty, whether it's related to market conditions, customer demands, project requirements, or regulations. You also need to help your team and stakeholders adapt to change, by communicating clearly, providing support, and facilitating transition.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?