As a construction lawyer, you are often called on to lead and manage teams of architects, engineers, contractors, and other experts. To develop your leadership skills, you need to build strong communication, problem-solving, and negotiation skills. You also need to be able to work with people from all walks of life and build trust within the team. While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to leadership, there are some essential qualities that all great leaders share.
By focusing on these key areas, you can develop your own style of leadership that will be effective in any construction legal setting.
Understand your role
Being a successful liaison during the construction process requires a high level of organisation and communication. You must be aware of your own position within the process, utilising your expertise to guide stakeholders in their decision making and providing clear updates on progress. It is important to build strong relationships and resolve conflicts quickly and efficiently by effectively listening to all points of view, staying neutral, and providing logical solutions. By maintaining these standards, you will help the project move forward in an efficient yet engaging manner, ultimately creating a successful conclusion that meets stakeholder expectations.
Be proactive
Proactivity should be the starting point when addressing any problem-solving situation. By taking charge and formulating an action plan before the situation becomes out of control, it can help to effectively manage and resolve matters as quickly as possible. A proactive approach requires foresight, constructive communication, and decisively mapping out solutions for best results.
Anticipate potential issues
Planning for potential issues during a construction project is key to the successful completion of any major endeavour. Thinking ahead and being aware of what could go wrong means you can be ready with some solutions if the unexpected arises. Anticipating potential issues early on allows ample time to problem-solve, develop strategies, adjust timelines or budgets, and create contingency plans. By remaining vigilant and prepared, teams will be well-prepared to handle bumps in the road that could potentially arise throughout and can get back on track quickly –– resulting in a successful outcome.
Be decisive
It’s no secret that construction projects often require quick decisions, so being able to make those decisions confidently and decisively can prove invaluable. Taking the time to consider all your options before making a call is important, but it is also helpful to be cognizant of the fact that projects can move quickly and failing to decide promptly can cost both time and money. Ultimately, striking a balance between thoughtful consideration and timely decisions allows you to benefit from the best qualities of both worlds.
Keep an open mind
Keeping an open mind is a life skill that can benefit us in multiple ways. It’s important to remember to actively listen to others’ opinions and perspectives, even if they differ from our own. Listening is crucial as you develop your leadership skills.
When it comes to disagreement, it’s also good practice to seek out common ground where possible and be flexible enough to come up with solutions that respect everyone’s points of view and interests. When done constructively, having an open mind, and working together for compromise can bring us closer together and ultimately create a much better result than if only one perspective is taken into account.
Be patient
Patience is an important part of life, and especially so when it comes to plans. Even the most carefully crafted and well-thought-out project can go awry, because unforeseen circumstances have a way of arising at the oddest of times. That’s why it’s so important to be prepared for these unexpected events and remain patient throughout – the ability to roll with the punches will serve you well wherever life takes you.
Ultimately, construction projects can be complex and require strong leadership to ensure everything comes together correctly. If you want your project to go smoothly, it’s important to take an active role in the construction process, from pre-planning stages to final project completion. Be proactive in identifying and solving issues that come up and trust your decision-making skills. Having a considerate attitude will help you stay ahead of any problems and provide insights into great solutions for all involved. Be willing to listen to others’ points of view and even consider implementing some ideas, if needed.
Above all, remain patient. Construction projects are fast paced, often unpredictable endeavours that need fine-tuning as they move forward. If you can master this comprehensive approach with poise, then you’ll be well on your way to successful project completion!
Questions, comments or just want to talk more about how to develop your leadership skills? Get in touch with Nathan Aron