As much as there remains a demand for skills in construction and infrastructure, the reality is that many companies are struggling. Lower output, the effects of inflation, and other industry challenges are making it harder to stay profitable. While some main contractors are maintaining healthy operations and good output, overall, the view is that industry activity is slowing.

Even if a company doesn’t go as far as filing for administration the knee jerk reaction is often cutbacks and layoffs. It’s fair to think that jobs might be at risk. Here’s what to do about it.

  • Update your LinkedIn profile and CV

Consider the projects you’ve worked on and the impact you’ve made. Create a list and then write down how each item translated into a benefit for the company. Those benefits are what’ll form the focus for your CV and LinkedIn profile. In your CV it’s important to give specifics, especially if you’re talking about revenue gained or time saved on a project. On LinkedIn, be more generic in your description.

  • Connect with recruiters

Once you’ve updated your CV, get in touch with industry specific recruiters. Have an honest conversation with them about your ideal role and type of company you’d like to work for. A specialist recruitment company will not only have insight as to who is recruiting, they will also be able to help you improve areas of your CV and talk you through how to prepare for interviews.

  • Leverage your network

If you aren’t already, start getting more active on LinkedIn, by commenting on posts and sharing insights of your own. You don’t need to write a lengthy blog post, you can simply share an article that you found, explaining what’s interesting about it, and why it’s relevant.  It is a great way to expand your network and build connections in the broader industry, through which you could find your next job opportunity.

  • Expand your skills

As companies streamline their operations, one of the first things they look for are people that have multiple areas of expertise.  These include soft skills such as the ability to engage easily with others, being an empathetic leader, or being able to suggest innovative ways of solving a problem. In terms of innovation, technology is a big part of that. Learn about new technologies, find out how they’re applied and the benefits. Even ask for a demo. As new technologies get integrated into projects, companies need people who can drive the transition.