Hiring for long term success

Essential Traits to Identify When Hiring for Long-Term Success: Insights from Adam Dalva, a Seasoned Construction Recruiter

Hiring individuals for the long term involves more than just finding candidates with the right skills and experience. While technical competencies are undoubtedly crucial, identifying certain traits can significantly contribute to an employee's success and longevity within an organization. Adam Dalva, a seasoned construction recruiter with twenty years of experience, offers valuable insights into the essential traits to look for during the hiring process.

1. Adaptability: Dalva emphasizes the importance of adaptability in the construction industry, which often faces evolving regulations, technologies, and project requirements. Candidates who have demonstrated flexibility in adapting to changes in construction methodologies or project scopes are more likely to thrive in this dynamic field.
2. Resilience: Construction projects can be unpredictable, with challenges ranging from supply chain disruptions to inclement weather. Dalva looks for candidates who have weathered such challenges in their previous roles, showcasing resilience, perseverance, and the ability to maintain composure under pressure.
3. Continuous Learners: According to Dalva, the construction industry is constantly evolving, with new building materials, techniques, and safety standards emerging regularly. Candidates who show a commitment to ongoing learning through certifications, training programs, or participation in industry conferences demonstrate a proactive approach to staying abreast of industry developments.
4. Strong Work Ethic: Dalva underscores the importance of a strong work ethic in the construction sector, where projects often have tight deadlines and demanding work conditions. Candidates who have a track record of putting in extra effort to meet project milestones and deliver quality workmanship are highly valued.
5. Effective Communication Skills: Clear communication is essential for coordinating activities among various stakeholders on construction sites. Dalva looks for candidates who can communicate effectively with team members, subcontractors, clients, and regulatory authorities, ensuring that everyone is aligned on project objectives and requirements.
6. Team Player Mentality: In the collaborative environment of construction projects, teamwork is paramount. Dalva seeks candidates who can work harmoniously with diverse teams, contribute ideas, and collaborate to overcome challenges collectively. Past experiences of successful teamwork on construction sites are indicators of a candidate's ability to thrive in this environment.
7. Integrity and Trustworthiness: Construction projects involve significant investments of time, resources, and trust among stakeholders. Dalva prioritizes candidates who demonstrate honesty, integrity, and ethical behavior, ensuring that they can be trusted to uphold the company's reputation and deliver on their commitments.
8. Problem-Solving Skills: From unexpected site conditions to logistical hurdles, construction projects present numerous challenges that require creative problem-solving skills. Dalva looks for candidates who can analyze complex situations, devise practical solutions, and implement them effectively to keep projects on track.
9. Passion and Enthusiasm: Dalva believes that passion for construction and enthusiasm for the work are contagious traits that drive long-term success in the industry. Candidates who exhibit genuine enthusiasm for building and construction projects are more likely to stay motivated, engaged, and committed to their roles.
10. Emotional Intelligence: In the high-pressure environment of construction, Dalva values candidates with high emotional intelligence, as they can navigate interpersonal dynamics, resolve conflicts diplomatically, and maintain positive relationships with colleagues, clients, and subcontractors.

In conclusion, Adam Dalva's insights highlight the importance of considering not only technical skills but also essential traits when hiring for long-term success in the construction industry. By identifying candidates who possess adaptability, resilience, continuous learning mindset, strong work ethic, effective communication, teamwork mentality, integrity, problem-solving skills, passion, and emotional intelligence, construction companies can build resilient teams capable of delivering exceptional results and driving sustainable growth in the long run.