Applied Communication Skills for the Construction Trades

This book is the first book to offer comprehensive instruction to construction trainees (and even experienced workers) in the four key areas of on-the-job communication: Listening Reading Speaking Writing Unlike other communication texts, which are often written for the general public or for people who work in an office environment, this book has been prepared specifically to meet the needs of the construction industry. Below are the thoughts of several construction professionals on the importance of being an effective communicator: "I spent almost 30 years working in the construction industry, primarily as a carpenter. I never felt that I was the best carpenter on the job. There were always carpenters who were more talented than I was. However, I was promoted to become their foreman and supervisor. Eventually, I answered only to the president of the company, and these better carpenters answered to me. This happened because I had one particular skill that gave me an advantage over them. That was my skill to communicate effectively in both speech and writing to the people I worked with and for. I attribute my success in the construction industry totally to my ability to read, write, listen, and speak well. Without good communication skills, I don't believe I would have become as successful. I was an average carpenter who became the supervisor o f much greater carpenters." John Yencho, Vocational Instructor, Trenton High School, Florida "I am convinced that the ability to speak clearly and comfortably in front of a group is critical for supervisors and managers in the construction industry. More and more, our field supervisors are being expected to present information to owners, lead project meetings, and conduct training sessions. Poor skills in this area can reduce the individual's opportunities for advancement." David Muehlbauer, Director of Training, The Sundt Companies, Inc. "On construction projects, some of the things we hear are 'I didn't understand it,' 'What he said didn't make sense,' 'He didn't tell me about that,' and so on. Proper communication makes a project go much smoother and make everyone feel more at ease. Communication can make or break a contractor. Understanding what's going on around us makes for a better profit for all." William Yeager, Yeager Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning "I learned early on that mastery of communication skills is every bit as important as the mastery of technical and management skills if one is to advance in his or her chosen profession. Those who learn to communicate become leaders and managers. Those who don't, don't." Richard Johnson, Quality Manager, Triple Grown Construction "Effective oral and written communication are always key ingredients for successfully working with others. This is an especially critical component o f the education and training function, where the ability to convey information accurately and effectively can play a major part in determining an individual's success on the job." John A. Heffner, Executive Director, Training and Educational Services, The Associated General Contractors of AmericaRigolosi, Steven A. is the author of 'Applied Communication Skills for the Construction Trades' with ISBN 9780130933553 and ISBN 0130933554.