How to apply for a job in Construction
Finding a job can sometimes feel like a job in itself! So, we've created a go-to guide to help you to land a career or an apprenticeship in construction.
We’ve enlisted the help of some real people working in the industry to share advice and insights on:
- Writing CVs and job applications
- Making the most of your employability skills when completing an application form or cover letter
- How the application process for apprentices works
- What to do when you have an interview
- How you can keep building your skills once you get a job.
1. BUILD YOUR CV
Think about the type of role you see yourself doing and start working on your CV. List your work-based experiences, existing skills and qualifications that may help you stand out and gain a role in this field.
Top tips on writing a CV
- Take a look at CV templates to make sure you are on the right lines
- Don't forget to check your spelling and grammar as it's important to look professional
- It may be tempting to stretch the truth, but don't make things up on your CV, as it may mean you have to talk about them in an interview...awkward!
Check out our complete guide to writing a construction CV here.
2. FIND A JOB YOU'LL LOVE
Look for job opportunities in the fields you’re interested in. These may be listed on the National Careers Service, Careers Wales, Skills Development Scotland, or on independant job sites.
You can also find a job that suits your interests, skills and qualifications using our Career Explorer.
3. WRITE A STAND OUT APPLICATION
Found a job you want to apply for? Employers and recruitment agencies often ask for a CV (tick!), cover letter and application form. It can also be helpful to identify your employability skills and think of some examples to demonstrate when you have used them, to help you to stand out from the crowd.
It's good practice to include a cover letter for all jobs you apply for - you can read our handy guide to writing cover letters here.
Employability skills can include but are not limited to skills such as:
- Communicating well
- Solving problems
- Using computers
- Getting jobs done on time
- Working in teams
- Leading others
- Understanding instructions
- Being on time
- Making decisions
- Getting on with people.
4. CONSIDER AN APPRENTICESHIP
Applying for an apprenticeship? The application process is very similar to applying for a regular job. If you see more than one position you like the look of, you could always apply for more than one apprenticeship at a time, as this will increase your chances of hearing something back.
5. BE INTERVIEW READY
Got yourself an interview? Congratulations!
Check out the Go Construct guide to construction interviews here - providing you with all the guidance, advice, hints and tips you'll need to nail that interview.
Interviews can be daunting, so remember to breathe and remain focussed on your strengths and abilities. If you don’t get the job, remember, you can always ask for feedback so you can keep improving your interview technique and improve it next time!
Building your skills
Once you’ve landed a job in construction, it's important to keep your skills up-to-date as the world of work is always changing. Gaining additional skills and knowledge will also help you to progress in your job and open the door to new roles or specialisms and, possibly, a higher salary.
Some roles require you to undertake certain training or competency tests as standard (i.e. CSCS cards). In others, employers may offer opportunities to go on accredited or non-accredited training courses to help you improve your communication skills, become adept at using certain machinery, learn about site safety, gain management skills or more.
Some people choose to continue studying whilst on the job, either part-time (with their employer’s approval) or around their full time work, to gain professional qualifications, such as higher or degree apprenticeships or chartered status.