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Dealing with your construction manager

By Grant Hill

Republish: EasyPublish™ Published: 16Jan2009 Word count: 450 Viewed: 104 time(s) Get Free Content For Your Site

A lot of people shy away from dealing with their managers and supervisors at all costs, regardless of the situation. Yet the majority of construction managers are reasonable and understanding of the needs of their workers.

With this in mind, there is no need to be apprehensive about approaching them, especially if what you want to speak to them about can help you do your construction job better. But what can you expect when you speak to your construction manager, and what can you do if they're simply a bad boss?

Negotiating with your construction manager

Don't be afraid to raise issues of concern with your manager, especially if they relate to your safety as you carry out a construction job. Remember though that negotiation is a two-way street and you must be respectful and reasonable with what you request. Make it clear that your request is justified and will help you carry out your duties more effectively.

If you are asking for a pay rise, it is best not to be too demanding. As your construction manager will likely try to barter, it is a good idea to start at a slightly higher rate than you would settle for. It is also a good idea to know and understand the value of the perks you could ask for as an alternative to an increase in salary.

Sometimes, construction managers will respond to a request for a pay rise by pointing out that they have a tight salary budget. It is at this time that you potentially negotiate other benefits, such as:

- More holiday days.
- Flexitime.
- Increased overtime.
- Target-based bonuses.
- Commission structure.
- Health-related benefits.
- Mobile phones or laptops.
- Cars or a travel allowance.

Is your construction manager a bad boss?

Everyone will have to deal with tough bosses at some point during their career. This might mean them shouting and screaming, failing to give credit where its due, playing favourites, outright lying or otherwise acting unreasonably. The following advice will help you deal with them more effectively:

- Double-check that what you are doing is correct and give your boss no reason to pick on you or highlight anything you are doing wrong to embarrass you.
- Approach your boss' boss and highlight all the things that concern, upset or worry you about your manager's behaviour.
- Keep a diary of what happens so that you keep track of specific dates and events. This is important if you decide to escalate the situation.
- Move departments or company, although this should always be your last resort.
- Don't just ignore it and hope it'll go away - take action if yuou feel you are being unfairly treated.

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