The Build Up.
Martin Preece
Helping Construction & Property Leaders Recruit better people and build better projects through the Recruitment of high-performers | Talking with industry professionals as Host of - The Building Talks Podcast
The Diamond Effect: Why Pressure is Our Secret Weapon
I once came across a quote, "Diamonds are forged under pressure." While I've likely paraphrased it, the essence remains true. This idea has lingered in my mind, especially during recent conversations with employers, candidates, and others about the increasing pressure in our daily and working lives. The mounting stress and strain from a lack of certainty, project delays, job losses and industry challenges are palpable.
Despite these hurdles, I find solace in knowing that as we navigate these complex times, we are being shaped and refined. Just as diamonds emerge from immense pressure, we too will emerge from these challenges stronger, wiser, and happier. When we look back, we'll see how these experiences have not only tested us but also transformed us into our best selves. Let's embrace the pressure, knowing it is forging a brighter future for us all.
Martin
On the Blog
Reflecting on the 2023 Financial Year and Insights for 2024
As we close the books on the 2023 financial year, it is time to reflect on the challenges and developments that have shaped Melbourne’s built environment. This year has been marked by a myriad of well-publicised issues—labour shortages, a housing crisis, planning challenges, government overspends, design/redesign delays, construction delays, Union hostility, wage growth, and of course inflation and higher interest rates. It has truly been a perfect storm of difficulties for the industry.
Industry News
Here are the top 5 stories that caught our attention this month
Q&A with Martin
Can 2024 be 'The Year of Solutions' for Australia's built environment sectors?
Last week, I had the pleasure of attending the Building 4.0 CRC annual showcase and forum at Monash University's Caulfield campus, hosted by the insightful Prof. Mathew Aitchison, who declared 2024 as 'The Year of the Solution'. Within his opening, he correctly outlined how currently (to paraphrase), there are several overriding issues, problems and gremlins across the built environment, all well publicised in industry and mainstream media - with a significant focus on blame, and who holds responsibility for allowing this situation to arise. In his opinion (which I share), the industry needs to be put this focus on blame, to one side, so we can find the solutions to all the issues we all face. This theme resonated deeply, highlighting the innovative strides and collaborative efforts driving the built environment forward. As we reflect on these advancements, it's clear that our industry is not just evolving but thriving, fuelled by a collective commitment to sustainable and smart solutions - not least be the continued awareness of Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), and the productivity gains that can be achieved through more collaborative endeavours.
Whilst true within MMC advances, it also made me think about the day-to-day roles we all play in shaping the industry and managing these issues. Coincidentally, on the drive to the forum, I listened to the first chapters of 'How to Win Friends and Influence People' by Dale Carnegie (which was actually recommended to me by one of this month’s podcast guests, Greg Tupicoff – see link below for his insights on the Pod), which outlined: Criticism is futile as it puts the other person on the defensive and usually makes them try to justify themselves, and, Criticism is dangerous as it wounds the other’s person’s pride, hurts their sense of importance, and creates resentment.
If we agree we all recognise there are some serious issues we are all facing within the industry, hopefully, by understanding and applying these two points from the book, we'll all position ourselves better, to at least, focus on the solutions, not the problems.
On the Podcast
Bobby Wang & Geordie McMillan on uncovering hidden challenges on land and water contamination
Join Bobby, Geordie, and me as we delve into land and water contamination and its impact on brownfield developments in Australian cities amidst the housing crisis.
Recommended by LinkedIn
Greg Tupicoff on navigating urban planning and property development
Greg and I explore planning's impact on developers and communities, comparing master-planned communities with inner-city brownfield sites and highlighting the tension between profit motives and social goals.
What’s on in Melbourne this month?
Join Construction Project Manager 2 Days Training in Melbourne to gain valuable learning and practical insights through direct interaction with instructors and personalised face-to-face instruction.
8 July in Melbourne
ULI Melbourne will explore the dynamic data centre sector and its opportunities for property developers and investors.
31 July at Corrs Chambers Westgarth, Melbourne, Australia
Jobs Spotlight
Fit-out
Full-time, Melbourne
$100,000 - $130,000
Complex Construction & Fit-out to $30M
Full-time, Melbourne
$190,000 - $250,000
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Get in Touch!
Don't forget - if you're a professional in Melbourne or SE Queensland's commercial construction markets - working for a head contractor, developer, or consulting PM or QS firm, reach out to me if you are on the hunt for your next career challenge - just send me an email: Martin@buildingenvirons.com.au or send me a LinkedIn message!