What do you do if your construction team is constantly at odds with each other?

2 Communicate openly and respectfully

The second step to improving your construction team's performance is to communicate openly and respectfully. Communication is key to any successful project, especially in construction, where coordination, safety, and quality are essential. You should encourage your team to share their ideas, opinions, and feedback, as well as listen to each other's perspectives and concerns. You should also communicate clearly and consistently about the project's objectives, roles, and responsibilities, and provide regular updates and feedback.

3 Implement conflict resolution techniques

The third step to restoring harmony in your construction team is to implement conflict resolution techniques. Conflict is inevitable in any team, but it can be constructive or destructive depending on how you handle it. You should avoid ignoring or avoiding conflict, as it can lead to resentment, frustration, and poor performance. Instead, you should address conflict as soon as possible, using methods such as mediation, negotiation, or compromise. You should also focus on the problem, not the person, and seek to understand the other party's point of view and interests.

4 Promote collaboration and teamwork

The fourth step to enhancing your construction team's morale and productivity is to promote collaboration and teamwork. Collaboration and teamwork are vital for any construction project, as they allow you to leverage the diverse skills, knowledge, and experience of your team members. You should foster a culture of cooperation and mutual support, where your team members help each other, share information, and work towards a common goal. You should also provide opportunities for your team to interact and bond, such as team-building activities, social events, or recognition programs.

5 Provide training and development

The fifth step to boosting your construction team's competence and confidence is to provide training and development. Training and development are important for any construction team, as they help you improve your team's skills, knowledge, and performance, as well as keep up with the latest trends, technologies, and standards in the industry. You should assess your team's strengths and weaknesses, and provide them with relevant and timely training and development opportunities, such as workshops, seminars, courses, or mentoring programs.

6 Seek feedback and improvement

The sixth and final step to managing a difficult construction team is to seek feedback and improvement. Feedback and improvement are essential for any construction team, as they help you measure your team's progress, identify areas of improvement, and celebrate achievements. You should solicit feedback from your team members, clients, and stakeholders, and use it to improve your team's processes, practices, and performance. You should also provide feedback to your team members, and recognize and reward their efforts and contributions.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?