Construction project managers oversee all phases of the building process, with their main goal to ensure the project is completed on time and within scope and budget. An efficient and effective construction project manager must be well-versed in all construction methodologies and procedures and able to coordinate a team of professionals of different disciplines to achieve the best results. If you are thinking about taking your career to the next level and becoming a project manager, here are the 6 skills you need to be successful:
1) Technical Communications
As middle management, you will be communicating on a daily basis with both contractors and staff as well as upper management and executives. Having strong verbal, written and presentation skills will help you communicate effectively with all parties, ensuring the project is done with minimal frustrations and avoid miscommunication.
2) Building Code Knowledge
Building zoning, bylaws, design specifications, fire protection and structural standards affect the design and construction of a building. As a project manager it will be your responsibility to ensure the safety and integrity of the building and make adjustments as necessary.
3) Construction Estimating
Estimating and controlling construction material quantities allows you, as a project manager, to accurately forecast and budget costs and materials to ensure the project is profitable and that the workers have enough supplies and material to complete the project without road blocks.
4) Project Control and Scheduling
Effectively planning a construction project is one of the most important skills for project managers. Recognizing cost controls, scheduling the use of project resources and understanding the organization’s processes are all essential to the job. Additionally, knowing how to maintain construction change orders, accurately record project data and perform cost control functions will ensure project managers are able to present the project’s details to upper management effectively.
5) Team Management
Construction sites have many layers of teams: upper management, middle management, hired staff, contractors, and teams within each sub contractor’s company. It takes a significant amount of skill to manage, schedule and communicate with each team and facilitate communication between them. The most efficient, productive project managers have excellent team management skills, understand team dynamics and create a positive environment where teams work efficiently together.
6) Leadership Skills
Leadership differs from management in that management consists of controlling a set of entities to accomplish a goal, whereas leadership refers to one’s ability to influence and motivate others to work towards a common goal. Not all managers are good leaders; however, the best project managers are able to influence those around them in a positive way. Strong leaderships skills are arguably the most important skill in any management position.
Wondering how you can gain these skills and start a career as construction project manager? Brighton College specializes in Building, Engineering and Construction Technology (BET) programs designed to give you the best training in AutoCAD, technical communications, building code and more! For more information call 604-430-5608 or learn about our Construction Project Management Diploma program.
