The woman in the workplace is still facing boundaries. This is true in male-dominated industries like construction. The construction industry is notoriously male-dominated, but for all of the supposedly physical characteristics it takes for construction companies to build homes, how can a woman make an impact in the world of construction?
Pick the Right Company That Has a Better Approach
If women are to make positive impacts in an industry that's mainly male-dominated, we can either work hard to prove ourselves or join companies that are already embodying diversity. When we look at a company in the construction industry, they are already utilizing a number of progressive business tactics. So many companies already utilize outsourcing, which is evidenced in the variety of companies like flexfleetrental.com that serve numerous construction businesses. But if a woman can choose organizations that are already looking forward, this will provide a significant shortcut.
Utilizing More Mentors
Proving yourself as a woman in a male-dominated industry is difficult, and this is where group efforts can be invaluable. Mentors are great because they will provide resources and guidance through peer-mentorship groups. And in construction, there certainly seems to be a gap that can be filled by mentorships. There is an article on constructionbusinessowner.com about why mentors are essential in construction, and it is hard to argue with it. Having more mentors in an industry that is operating with a more progressive mindset is pivotal, especially for female mentors.
Increasing the Level of Diversity
Diversity is still a tough topic to address in certain industries. In construction, it appears to have a very strict hierarchy, which makes it harder for women to break into. Thankfully, we are beyond macho, alpha-male culture and it's not just about encouraging diversity for women, but for everyone. There are many benefits to joining the construction industry regardless of who you are. There is a massive labor shortage, and it is expected the need for construction workers will grow by more than 1.6 million people because of the baby boomers giving up their roles. As millennials grew up on computers and have digital skills, the construction industry is crying out for fresh talent.
How Can We Make a Big Difference in Construction?
Making an impact as a woman in construction is about operating through grassroots approaches and learning to inspire proper changes about addressing outdated perceptions. This doesn't mean going to work in the boardroom per se, but actually working on-site. Additionally, we can look at what influences and inspires younger generations to want to work in construction. It's important to target children and show them what a construction-based career can actually do for the quality of their lives. It is a very lucrative career when done right, rather than actually being a minimum wage, low-skill job.
This is one battle that needs addressing, and while there are plenty more where women need to make an impact in construction, it's safe to say that the doors are starting to open.
Leave a Reply