Coming back to construction after a break may be daunting, but with your strengths and skills, as well as industry experience and qualifications, you’ll have much to offer any prospective employer.
Before you start your job search, take some time and think about the type of role you really want. Construction gives you the opportunity to experience different roles in the industry, and the room to progress your career in different directions.
So rather than just focusing on what you're qualified to do, take the time to work out what you enjoy doing as well.
Think about aspects of your previous employment that you enjoyed the most. This will help you to focus on the type of role that’s right for you. If you enjoyed supporting the main activity of a business, then a support service role, such as administration could be a good fit for you.
It's worth taking the time to explore the many construction careers available in the industry.
With such a wide range of construction projects taking place all the time, the industry requires a broad and varied set of skills to complete the work.
From support services to trade skills, it takes a wide range of roles to carry out a construction project.
Technology is continually changing and there are often advances in working practices so it’s important to keep up-to-date with what's happening in the building sector.
These new ways of working have become more commonplace in the industry in recent years so it's important to be aware and know about these.
BIM uses a system of 3D computer models to create the impression of what the finished building will look like. This then helps different teams to work together to create the real-life product. These models are used not only in the planning stages of a project, but can be used throughout and for the long term management of the completed building.
Sustainable building is also a key issue that has been become more relevant in the construction industry in recent years. Using building processes and resources that are environmentally responsible is common in modern construction. And there are continual improvements and advances in new technologies and materials that are sustainable for the environment, so it's worth keeping up to date with these.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is an important area for the industry as it's a business approach that contributes to sustainable development.
CSR focuses on the concept of delivering economic, social and environmental benefits to everyone who is affected by the activities of a business. You can find out more about this role and what it requires in our CSR Coordinator role profile.
Now you know what kind of role you want to go for, it's important to get your application right. Applying for positions or training opportunities can feel like full time work, but it’s important to put in the time in to present yourself in the best possible light.
A professional and well-presented CV is a must.
In your CV, you may need to explain more about different areas of your employment, so make sure your history is accurate and honest.
If there are significant breaks in your employment history, include a section that covers relevant experience and skills gained during those times. This will help employers to see what you have learnt and that could be relevant to the role you're applying for.
A covering letter is also crucial. An enthusiastic letter, tailored to suit the position you’re applying for, presents the ideal opportunity for you to sell yourself as the perfect candidate for the job.
Some roles may require you to complete an application form, either on paper or online instead of sending a covering letter. The same principles apply for an application form, by completing all the fields given, and making sure to give examples of skills and experiences you have that show your suitability for the role.
It’s important to present yourself appropriately online. LinkedIn is a social networking service that lets you build a professional profile of yourself and connect with others. Creating a LinkedIn profile and ensuring it is up-to-date can be beneficial when job hunting. Many employers use LinkedIn to look at candidates’ profiles, so it’s an ideal platform to showcase your professional connections, endorsements and achievements.
Similarly, make sure you ‘employer-proof’ your social media presence. Prospective employers may look at your Facebook page or Twitter feed. Make sure you present your best self, by being aware of what you're sharing, liking and reposting on your social networks.
Coming back to building can be a big step and for many people they can feel insecure in their current skill set. However, returning to the construction industry may mean you’ve got more relevant experience to offer an employer than you think. With demand for workers growing, there are more opportunities than ever to get back to building.
When applying for a construction job or a place on a course, everyday skills can impress an employer. Honing your employability skills can help you to stand out from the crowd, and could be one of the factors in securing the job you want. From communication skills to problem solving competencies, many everyday skills are not only essential in the working world but sought after too.
Returning to work in the construction industry gives you the ideal opportunity to refresh your existing skills. You can demonstrate your skills in a certain construction occupation by registering with an industry skill certification card scheme. A card from the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) provides evidence that you have the correct skills and training to step back into construction.
There are several ways to build new skills. How you go about it depends on what your goals are. Many roles in the construction industry have chartered institutions that represent them. They focus on improving their members’ skills and maintaining high standards, often offering short courses and workshops.
If you want to train in a new trade or return to a craft role, applying for an apprenticeship can be a good choice. Previous experience will be picked up by a prospective employer and refresher courses can smooth the transition back into building.
Possible funding is different for specific age groups, but you can still start an apprenticeship at any age. There is no stigma attached to being an older and probably wiser apprentice.
A career break from building is no bad thing. You still have invaluable industry skills and experience. With sustained growth returning to the sector, there’s never been a better time to come back to construction.