For many in the trades industry, running a firm can mean you’ve reached the pinnacle of your construction career.
However, one of the most common remarks you’ll hear from those who have made it into construction industry leadership positions is how lonely it is at the top.
Often, without in-house peers, industry leaders have no support pillars from which to seek advice or point them in the right direction when the going gets tough.
This isolation has seen an increasing number of construction bosses turn to coaching and peer advisory groups to strategise and exchange expertise.
The trusted settings allow CEOs, supervisors, directors, and executives to come together with leaders from their own industries and soundboard ideas while building confidence in their decision-making.
Stephanie Christopher, managing director at Australia’s largest executive peer advisory group, The Executive Connection (TEC), spoke to Build-it about how more construction leaders are finding the value of unbiased, confidential advice that can be shared through peer mentoring.
“As one of our largest member sectors (construction leaders), understand what it means to belong to an external community or network of like-minded and experienced people,” she told Build-it.
“While our members come from all different backgrounds and industries, what they share is a collective goal to become better leaders and accelerate their company’s growth.”
“Often, (those in the building industry) encounter the same issues as other leaders from different industries who can provide fresh perspectives and support, particularly when it comes to critical business challenges.”
Benefits of peer mentoring for leaders:
- Reset and adjust your mindset
- Enhance soft skills
- Change habits
- Receive trusted support
- Learn a new discipline
- Gain business knowledge
- Grow leadership skills
Currently, TEC support groups include a wide range of leaders within the construction industry, which forms one of their most prominent member sectors.
Supply chain, cash flow, and a transition of leadership are some of the most frequently discussed topics within construction leadership groups. Working ‘in’ the business, not ‘on’ the business, is another crucial talking point.
Ms Christopher says that while executive networking groups are a great way to boost company performance, they also provide a unique opportunity for personal growth.
“Personal and professional development is critical for anyone who leads a business,” she told Build-it.
“Peer mentoring can help build upon the skills they’ve gained and accelerate strategic thinking, communication and collaboration, which are critical for the success of leaders and their organisation.”
“Seasoned CEOs, business owners and senior executives often forget about the importance of investing in themselves.”
