The construction industry is facing a serious issue—there aren’t enough skilled workers to get the job done. For small contractors, this is hitting hard. Deadlines are slipping, costs are climbing, and it’s harder than ever to find good people to fill the gaps. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone.
Here’s the deal: The labour shortage isn’t going away on its own. It’s time to take action and find practical solutions that work for contractors like you.
Why Is There a Labour Shortage?
There are a few reasons why the workforce is shrinking:- Aging Workers: A big chunk of the construction workforce is nearing retirement, and there aren’t enough young people stepping in to replace them.
- Fewer Apprenticeships: Training programs aren’t keeping up with demand, and apprenticeships have taken a hit.
- Immigration Rules: Post-Brexit immigration policies have cut off a reliable source of skilled labour from the EU.
This isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s affecting how contractors run their businesses.
How Does This Impact Small Contractors?
Small contractors are feeling the pinch the most. Here’s how:
- Higher Costs: With fewer workers available, wages are climbing, and you’re competing harder than ever to secure skilled labour.
- Project Delays: Can’t find the people? You can’t hit your deadlines. It’s as simple as that.
- Quality Risks: When you’re short on staff, you might end up hiring less experienced workers, which can lead to mistakes or safety issues.
If you’re running a small team, these challenges can quickly spiral out of control. But there are ways to fight back.
What Can You Do About It?
- Invest in Your Team
Keep the people you already have by making them want to stay. Offer competitive wages, regular training, and show that you value their work. Happy employees stick around and even help you attract others. - Sell the Job
Let’s face it: construction doesn’t always have the best reputation among younger generations. Change that. Highlight the benefits of working with you—a supportive environment, career growth, and the chance to work on meaningful projects. - Use Technology to Your Advantage
Young workers are drawn to modern workplaces. Using tools like PaperDrop, a job management software, shows them you’re running a forward-thinking business. No more piles of paperwork or confusing schedules—just one simple platform where everyone can stay on the same page. - Plan Smarter, Not Harder
You’re busy. The last thing you need is to waste time chasing invoices, managing schedules, or tracking jobs manually. Tools like PaperDrop let you automate these tasks, giving you more time to focus on hiring, training, and running your business. - Be Proactive
Waiting for the perfect candidate to walk through the door isn’t a plan—it’s a gamble. Start building relationships with local training providers, attend job fairs, and actively recruit apprentices.
Why Technology Matters
Younger workers grew up with smartphones, apps, and instant access to information. They expect the same at work. Using job management software like PaperDrop doesn’t just make your life easier—it makes your business more attractive to tech-savvy recruits.
Streamline Scheduling: Everyone knows where they need to be and what they need to do.
Simplify Communication: No more endless phone calls—just clear updates everyone can see.
Track Jobs in Real-Time: Keep your team organized and your projects moving forward.
The Time to Act is Now
The labour shortage isn’t going to fix itself, and small contractors can’t afford to wait. Take control by investing in your team, promoting your business as a great place to work, and using tools like PaperDrop to make your operations smoother and more appealing.
The sooner you tackle this issue, the sooner you’ll get ahead of the competition. Don’t wait—start solving the labour shortage problem today.
Investing in technology tells new hires, “We’ve got our act together, and this is a great place to work.”
Resources
https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/brickies-roofers-and-plumbers-will-be-hot-property-in-building-blitz-x2lf8c59k
https://www.reuters.com/world/uk/worker-shortages-raise-doubts-over-britains-plan-build-growth-2024-12-13
https://www.ft.com/content/6dec54da-10af-42b7-a4fb-e4f5ef79c79c
