Construction foremen have to manage many varied responsibilities. All of the factors that go into directing and supervising a construction crew require a unique skillet that includes industry expertise and methodical organization. Meticulous attention to detail makes foremen better able to meet expectations and guide work efficiently. Here are a few things that a foreman needs working in his or her favor.
Accessibility
Construction professionals with supervisory duties have to be available to provide instructions and answer questions as soon as needed. If a foreman is inaccessible, it can lead to unnecessary delay and confusion.
Communication
Foremen have to practice exceptionally good communication skills. When they are giving directions to workers or answering someone’s questions, they have to be clear and direct. For the most part, a combative or non-communicative interpersonal style will not serve foremen well. They also need to utilize good listening skills. A foreman should be receptive to feedback and willing to understand concerns about a project from someone else’s perspective.
Organization
A foreman needs to keep key information well-organized. It is advantageous to store project documents both physically and electronically in centralized locations. A foreman should always be able to produce important documentation such as building plans, construction insurance policies, and permits.
Accountability
What makes a good construction foreman who clients want to work with again? One of the most important qualities that makes a good foreman is accountability.
Foremen have to take ownership of mistakes that may not necessarily be their own. They are responsible for taking precautions to avoid mistakes. This is true whether mistakes are attributable to a foreman’s own crew, subcontractors, or suppliers. Clients and project managers respect when a foreman demonstrates accountability regardless of the circumstances that led to a mistake or setback on a jobsite.
An Eye Towards Risk Management
On any jobsite, keeping workers safe has to be a foreman’s top priority at all times. It is essential to be fully aware of all local and federal regulations governing a crew’s activities.
A foreman must take steps to assure thorough compliance with all applicable OSHA directives about how workers complete certain tasks. Training, supervision, and construction insurance are all integral elements of risk management for foremen.
Positive Working Relationships With Subcontractors
The best foremen have experience working with third-party crews that will handle limited phases of work. Ideally, a foreman should have some familiarity with subcontractors who do quality work at reasonable prices. A productive relationship with subcontractors in a specific area can be a big asset to a project.
Ultimately, a foreman has to know how to manage a lot of different moving pieces. In addition to working productively with one’s own crew, they need advanced skills and resources in order to cultivate good communication with clients, subcontractors, and inspectors.
About Haughn & Associates
Founded by Michael Haughn in 1986, Haughn & Associates is a full-service, family-owned, independent insurance agency based out of Dublin, Ohio. H&A strives to provide the best possible price and unique insurance solutions across a myriad of industries, including construction, IT, Habitation & Commercial Property, Agriculture, and Engineering. Devoted to providing the best of business insurance, life and disability insurance, personal insurance, employee benefits, and bonds, H&A is proof that success lies in long-standing client relations and satisfaction. To learn more about how H&A can be of service to you, contact us at (877) 802-2278.
