It’s no secret that the world holds its own opinion on the construction industry – it is like that for almost every industry that you research these days.
But the truth is, most of these views and opinions are spread from small snippets of information, articles or news feeds, that are just not telling you the truth.
So, we have scoured the internet and found the top 5 most common construction myths, and have decided to put to rest the misconception of this side of the construction industry.
- Construction is ‘a man’s job’.
More than ever before, over 320,000 women work in construction in the UK alone. They make up 3.5% of all trades people, 7.7% of project managers, 13% of business owners and 14% of all construction and building inspectors.
These numbers are only predicted to grow, as employment of women in construction is increasing at a rate which is 5 times faster than the industry all together.
- Construction is only about physicality.
Absolutely not – whilst it can be beneficial that you have the capability to do some heavy lifting, construction is not just recommended to the former rugby players among us. With sufficient training, anyone with a determined mindset can accomplish work on a project; from swinging a hammer, to wiring some electrics or laying out the blueprints.
But it isn’t just a test of strength, the construction industry means dealing with all types of people and having the communication ability to handle anyone and everyone; from tricky customers to neighbours with complaints, you must have the correct mindset and communication skills to get by on the job.
- Construction is bad for the environment.
We find that construction has a bad reputation when it comes to the environment, due to the use of materials that emit carbon dioxide, as well as the non-recyclable materials that can be used.
Though this can be inevitable, the construction industry is constantly taking steps to become more sustainable; you can find out more about this in our previous blog post.
It might surprise you to know that the construction industry is growing in sustainability, with green buildings and environmentally friendly designs becoming increasingly popluar.
- Construction is a practical job that requires working outside in all conditions.
When you think of construction, you automatically think of the builders, carpenters, electricians and plumbers who make the project come to life, who do usually work outside, in all conditions.
But who you don’t think of, are the people who have to do all the inside jobs, to ensure the right materials, equipment, drawings and builders are sent to the right place at the right time.
The people working at an office, workshop or at home, creating the blueprints of the project. The people on the phone, dealing with new enquiries, current projects, a delay of materials etc.
What we’re trying to say is that you can absolutely work in the construction industry, without spending your days in the sun, rain or snow.
- All projects are the same.
We can promise you – you will never come across 2 projects that are exactly the same.
Whether it is a different client, supplier, team member, designer or subcontractor; each and every project has its very own, unique conditions.
You may be in a new location, and the weather may be nothing like it has been before.
The point is, every new project that you begin will automatically come with original advantages, challenges and risks that you will have to consider.
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Now we’ve busted these myths, has your view changed on the construction industry?
What other myths have you heard that we could bust?
