Construction professionals want new challenges, strong benefits, performance-based increases: Study

The majority of construction professionals (60 per cent) say new challenges are the most important factors in terms of career progression and professional development.

They are also looking for strong health and dental plans, and promotions and salary increases based on performance, according to the What People Want 2013 guide prepared by recruiting company Hayes Canada.

The guide surveyed more than 5,000 people from 16 Canadian industries, ranging from administrative to C-level executives, so that employers can use it to make decisions about creating attractive and strategic recruitment packages. 

The survey found that construction professionals are cognizant of the demand for changing skill sets and they are taking it upon themselves to ensure they have the qualifications required to get ahead.

However, compensation is still a driving factor: 70 per cent said they would need a minimum of 10 to 30 per cent salary increase to consider leaving their current job.

Based on these findings, Hays recommends that if construction companies want to recruit and retain top talent, they will need to have competitive compensation, good health and dental plans, a clear career progression plan that offers workplace challenges and they will need to hire the necessary support staff.