Starting your first day in construction can be exciting and overwhelming. With half-a-million jobs to fill in 2024, many workers are navigating their first days on jobsites. These early days are crucial for setting a foundation for future success. Jennifer Todd, founder of LMS General Contractors and nonprofit A Greener Tomorrow, shares her insights to help you thrive in your new role. Drawing on her 16 years of extensive experience, Todd provides 10 essential tips for a successful career in the trades.
1. LISTEN AND OBSERVE
Construction is fast-paced and complex. Being alert and attentive helps you understand workflow, safety protocols and job expectations. Todd emphasizes the importance of actively listening to experienced workers, as their insights often come from years of hands-on experience.
"Your first day and week are critical for absorbing as much information as possible," Todd says. "Listen to your supervisors, observe your colleagues and take mental notes."
Action Item: Spend your first week paying close attention to everything happening around you.
2. BE PREPARED
Preparation goes beyond having the right tools. Todd stresses mental and physical readiness. "Ensure your equipment is in working order and you’re mentally ready to tackle the day," she advises. Bringing specific tools in good condition and having a positive attitude shows commitment and helps you make a strong first impression.
"Supervisors notice when a new hire comes ready to work," Todd says.
Action Item: Show up on your first day with all necessary tools, equipment, and a readiness to work.
3. PRIORITIZE SAFETY
"Safety is the most important thing on a job site," Todd says. Understanding and following safety regulations is essential for your well-being and that of those around you. Neglecting safety can have severe consequences, so Todd stresses the importance of doing things right the first time, something her first boss told her.
"My boss would always say, ‘It takes twice as much time to do it the wrong way than to do it the right way.’ That lesson stuck with me.”
Action Item: Familiarize yourself with safety protocols and make them your top priority.
Your first day and week are critical for absorbing as much information as possible. Listen to your supervisors, observe your colleagues and take mental notes.
Jennifer Todd
Founder and President, LMS General Contractors; Founder, A Greener Tomorrow
4. BUILD RELATIONSHIPS
Connecting with colleagues is crucial, even if you’re not naturally outgoing. Building relationships creates a supportive network that will help you succeed. Todd emphasizes that these early connections can evolve into valuable mentorships or partnerships.
“Many of the people who have their dream jobs, they got them from a relationship," Todd notes.
Action Item: Engage with coworkers and supervisors to establish strong working relationships.
5. ASK QUESTIONS
Assumptions in construction can lead to costly mistakes. "It’s better to ask and be sure than to guess and get it wrong," Todd explains. Asking questions shows you’re engaged and willing to learn. It also helps avoid errors that could slow down the project or put others at risk.
"When I first started, I didn’t know everything—I still don’t," she admits. "But I was never afraid to ask questions. It’s how you learn, and it shows your supervisors that you’re invested in doing the job well."
Action Item: Don’t hesitate to ask questions if you’re unsure about something.
6. STAY HUMBLE
"Don’t try to be a know-it-all," Todd warns. Construction is a team effort, and there’s always something new to learn. Approach your new job with an open mind. Recognize that your colleagues have valuable knowledge to share and staying humble will help you gain their respect and support.
Action Item: Approach your new role with humility and a willingness to learn.
7. MAINTAIN PHYSICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH
Construction work can be physically demanding, so it’s important to maintain your health. "Hydrate, eat healthy, and pace yourself," Todd advises. Mental health is equally important; if you’re feeling overwhelmed, talk to someone about it.
"Don’t try to lift or carry more than you can handle," Todd says. "It’s about doing the job safely and effectively."
Action Item: Take care of your body and mind to keep up with the demands of the job.
My boss would always say, ‘It takes twice as much time to do it the wrong way than to do it the right way.’ That lesson stuck with me.
Jennifer Todd
Founder and President, LMS General Contractors; Founder, A Greener Tomorrow
8. EMBRACE CONTINUOUS LEARNING
The construction industry is constantly evolving. Workers should always be looking to improve their skills. "When I started, I didn’t know much about the industry, but I was eager to learn," Todd shares. "I asked questions, took on new responsibilities, and eventually got certified in areas that interested me. That willingness to learn and grow opened doors I never imagined."
Action Item: Take advantage of training opportunities and seek additional education.
9. BE RELIABLE AND PUNCTUAL
In construction, punctuality is a necessity. "When you’re late, you’re affecting the entire team and the project timeline," Todd explains. "If you’re required to be on-site at 8 a.m., make sure you’re there by 7:30 at the latest." Being reliable and punctual shows your commitment to the job and demonstrates that you’re someone who can be counted on.
Action Item: Make punctuality and reliability your trademarks on the job.
10. REFLECT AND SET GOALS
Reflection is key to continuous improvement. "Take time at the end of each week to think about what you’ve learned and where you can improve," Todd suggests. Setting small, achievable goals for the following week keeps you motivated and focused on your career development.
"Talk to the person that's just a few steps ahead of you to find out what they're doing and how they're creating success," Todd suggests. "You’re not going to be the CEO tomorrow, but you could be the superintendent next year."
Action Item: At the end of each week, reflect on what you’ve learned and set goals for the next week.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Every experienced professional was once in your shoes. The challenges you face today are opportunities to learn and build a lasting career. As Todd’s journey illustrates, success in this industry lies in your willingness to put in the work and continuously improve.
"I think the key to feeling less overwhelmed is to realize that everyone started where you're at. Everyone has had their first day and their first week on a job site."
Stay tuned as we explore Workforce Developments topics this summer. Your journey to a safer, more productive work environment begins here, with CONEXPO-CON/AGG 365. Be sure to subscribe to the newsletter here so you don’t miss any news.
Photo credit: LMS General Contractors
