If you’re looking for a career change but aren’t sure if contracting is right for you, it’s important to know what the daily life of a contractor entails. One must possess many skills to achieve success in this field.
But firstly, you should know that licenses and certifications are required before obtaining a contractor job. Moreover, you have to take contractor continuing education courses. This is something you should keep up with every year to ensure that your contractor license remains active and you can continue working.
Here are some top skills needed to succeed as a contractor.
#1. Communication
The ability to effectively communicate with other people is very important when being employed by a construction company. Contractors need strong written and verbal communication skills to convey their needs while maintaining good relationships with both coworkers and superiors.
Additionally, effective communication involves listening well so that contractors can better understand what other people are saying to them or asking from them.
#2. Leadership Skills
Outstanding leadership isn’t just for CEOs. Every contractor needs to have strong leadership qualities to bring a project to its completion on time.
When contractor teams are working together, it’s important for one to take charge and give the team clear goals. Leaders are the go-getters of their team who drive projects forward with confidence while still being open to helpful suggestions from others.
#3. Project Management Skills
Contractors are more than just construction workers; they’re also managers and investors. Their main responsibility is to oversee all aspects of a project, whether hiring subcontractors or managing finances.
A thorough understanding of management software is essential for contractors. This is an excellent skill to have, as it will allow you to efficiently track payments to subcontractors, generate invoices and monitor the progress of your projects.
#4. Self-Motivation
Contractors must be able to motivate themselves to get work done without constant supervision from others.
Contractors need the ability to manage their own schedules, make deadlines in a timely fashion, and handle job expansion or diminishment in workload.
#5. Problem-Solving Skills
Many situations arise in the contracting field that requires contractors to think quickly on their feet. They also need to figure out how to problem solve without constantly going over every detail.
This is an important skill that can save both time and money when it comes to making decisions that impact a project’s success or failure.
#6. Analytical Skills
Contractors must be able to analyze information to identify trends of problems that might arise. This is of utmost importance during the planning stage of a project.
Contractors must be thorough, systematic, and accurate when assessing data related to their projects.
#7. Physical Strength
Some contractors need to lift heavy materials and equipment regularly. This is especially true for those who work as subcontractors. Contractors should be capable of physical labor that contributes to a construction site’s success.
You don’t necessarily need to have a bodybuilder’s physique, but you will likely perform some basic physical tasks regularly.
#8. Attention to Detail
Many small details could make or break a project, which is why contractors need to pay very close attention to detail. A mislabeled shipment could result in faulty supplies, which can lead to costly mistakes down the road.
Details such as these must be identified and communicated effectively by those working on construction sites so that no errors occur.
#9. Math Skills
Contractors must have the ability to do basic arithmetic to understand how much material is needed for a project. They also need math skills to determine how much time and money various aspects of a project will cost.
Contractors should be able to draw up accurate estimates that reflect their knowledge of both materials and labor costs.
#10. Creativity
Creativity is a huge part of the construction industry. Constructions professionals need to be able to think outside the box and come up with innovative ideas that work.
This skill is especially important when considering solutions for problems or obstacles that arise during a project’s planning process. Creativity can help contractors determine ways to get around such obstructions, which can save time and money in the long run.
The contracting industry is a competitive field that requires a variety of skills to be successful. While not all contractors will need to possess each skill on this list, the top 10 skills we’ve outlined are essential for those looking to make a career in this field. If you’re interested in becoming a contractor, be sure to focus on developing these abilities so that you can stand out from the competition.
