From Bartender to Builder: Jono's Inspiring Journey of Perseverance and Growth in the Construction Industry

Mar 12, 2024

Meet Jono, whose journey is a testament to the hardworking individuals who keep our nation moving forward.



After 15 years of bartending, Jono was inspired to pursue a career in the construction industry, seeking better work-life balance, working conditions, and salary opportunities. He shares, "I wanted to move into a sector that allowed me to learn hard skills."


When asked about his challenges early on, Jono reflects, "Construction is not for the faint-hearted, and you must work hard to earn respect. The challenges I faced weren't physical but more mental. I had to learn to talk less, listen more, jump on every opportunity to learn new skills, and be humble."


Despite the obstacles, Jono's motivation remains unwavering. "I love learning new skills—hard skills you can take with you—high-risk work licenses, etc. I see someone operating a machine or installing plumbing, and I want to learn how to do that. Ultimately, I want to own my own Roof Plumbing business."


JV Recruitment was crucial to Jono's success, providing support and guidance throughout his journey. "JV were fantastic in supporting me through my traineeship. They offered me placements with builders that provided me with essential experience aligned with my Certificate IV. Furthermore, they were there to help me through periods when I needed it. JV cares about their frontline workers and trainees. They helped me out more than they realise."


Jono's advice is simple for those considering a career change or just starting out: "Have a go. Work hard, and people notice. Find the area that piques your interest and get amongst it."


Jono's goals are clear: "In the next few years, I plan to clock a Certificate III in Plumbing and start a business."


At JV Recruitment, we're proud to have played a part in Jono's incredible journey, and we can't wait to see what the future holds for him.

Are you seeking talented, hardworking individuals like Jono to join your team? Contact JV Recruitment today to discuss how we can help you find the perfect fit for your business.


13 May, 2024
Navigating the construction industry's Labour market can be complex and challenging. With every project, the need for skilled workers and dedicated staff is crucial. Finding the right construction staffing agency is paramount to ensure the success of your projects. 3 Factors to Vet Your Construction Staffing Agency A top-notch construction recruitment agency partner can make a world of difference to your time to hire, employee retention, and attracting the best candidates to your business. Experience and Expertise Your staffing agency should have a proven track record of placing workers in various construction roles and a deep understanding of industry-specific nuances. Ask about their previous successful placements in roles similar to what you need filling and request specific examples that demonstrate their knowledge of industry standards and regulations. At JV Recruitment, our team has over 15 years of experience in the construction industry. We have successfully placed thousands of skilled workers in roles ranging from entry-level positions to senior management. Our deep understanding of the industry allows us to identify the right candidates for your specific needs quickly. Quality Control and Compliance Compliance and quality control should be the unwavering foundation upon which your staffing strategy is built. Investigate the agency's procedures for vetting candidates, including screening for experience, qualifications, and any serious safety incidents . A comprehensive agency will have a rigorous selection process that filters employees based on their skills and ongoing development. JV Recruitment's comprehensive screening process includes thorough background checks, reference verifications, and skills assessments. We ensure that all candidates meet the necessary qualifications and have a clean safety record. Our ongoing training and development programs keep our workers up-to-date with the latest industry standards and best practices. Scalability and Speed Your staffing agency must match industry volatility with agility and responsiveness. Present potential staffing partners with scenario tests, such as last-minute changes to project scope or unanticipated staff absences, to evaluate their adaptability and available resources. JV Recruitment's extensive database of pre-qualified candidates allows us to quickly respond to your staffing needs, even in the face of unexpected changes. Our flexible approach and strong network enable us to scale our services to match your project requirements, whether you need a single worker for a short-term assignment or a large team for a long-term project. Direct Placement vs. Temporary Staffing The choice between permanent roles and temporary staffing depends on your project's requirements, your company's organisational structure, and the level of control you wish to maintain. The Permanence of Direct Placement Direct hires introduce skill sets for the long haul, commitment, and the gradual synergy that only comes from a permanent team working in unison. A construction staffing agency with prowess in direct placement should be your ambassador in the competitive market for talent. The Transience of Temporary Staffing Temporary staffing within the construction industry serves as a relief valve for project-based needs. It allows firms to maintain a lean operational structure, adapting labour costs to the project's flux. Look for a staffing partner who has a robust database of candidates, a quick turnaround time, and a system for managing temporal talent that supplements your existing hierarchy without structural strain. The Labourers Lifecycle: Safety, Training, and Retention The lifecycle of a labourers in the construction industry encompasses the continuum from safety induction through skills training to retention strategies that manage and grow talent within your projects. Safety First, Always A credible construction staffing agency prioritises safety by providing a comprehensive induction encompassing site-specific safety protocols and risk mitigation. Look for an agency that continually educates its workforce on the most current safety standards and practices. The Training Trestle A robust induction process is the bridge between a new hire's existing knowledge and their successful integration into your company's operations. When evaluating staffing agencies, examine the depth and quality of their induction programs. The agency's induction initiatives should align with your company's safety protocols, work practices, and growth projections, ensuring that new employees are well-prepared to contribute to your projects from day one. Retention Riddles Staffing agencies that proactively engage in retention strategies diffuse the productivity-killing bomb of high staff turnover. Evaluate the strategy your potential staffing agency has in place for preventing staff attrition, such as competitive compensation, workplace benefits, and career development pathways. At JV Recruitment , we understand the intricacies of the construction industry's labour market. With over 15 years of experience, our commitment to excellence in sourcing, safety, and staffing transcends numbers on a page; it's the lifeblood that energises every project we touch. Contact us to start a conversation about how we can partner on your next construction endeavour. We bring in the workforce you need at the speed you need without compromising on quality.
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Are you a construction professional looking to take your career to new heights? Discover valuable advice and insights on career progression, upskilling, and networking that will help you build a thriving career in the construction industry. The construction industry offers a wide range of exciting career opportunities for professionals looking to make their mark. Whether you're just starting or seeking to advance your career, there are several key strategies you can employ to reach your goals. Develop Your Skills Investing in your professional development is crucial for career advancement in the construction industry. Identify areas where you can improve your technical skills or acquire new ones that are in high demand. Consider pursuing certifications, attending workshops, or enrolling in courses that will enhance your expertise and make you a more valuable asset to your team. Build Your Network Networking is a powerful tool for career advancement in any industry, and construction is no exception. Attend industry events , join professional organisations, and connect with colleagues and specialist construction recruitment professionals on LinkedIn. Building relationships with other professionals can lead to valuable opportunities, such as job openings , partnerships, or mentorship. Seek Out Mentorship Finding a mentor who has already achieved the level of success you aspire to can be incredibly beneficial for your career growth. A mentor can provide guidance, advice, and support as you navigate your career path. Look for experienced professionals within your organisation or industry who are willing to share their knowledge and insights. Take On New Challenges Demonstrating your ability to take on new challenges and responsibilities is key to advancing your career. Volunteer for projects that stretch your skills and offer to lead teams or propose innovative solutions to problems. By showing initiative and a willingness to learn, you'll position yourself as a valuable contributor to your organisation. Communicate Your Goals Make your career aspirations known to your supervisors and colleagues. Engage in regular c areer discussions with your manager and express your interest in taking on additional responsibilities or moving into leadership roles. By communicating your goals clearly, you'll be more likely to receive support and opportunities for growth. Stay Up to Date with Industry Trends The construction industry is constantly evolving, with new technologies, techniques, and regulations emerging all the time. To stay competitive and advance your career, it's essential to stay informed about the latest industry trends. Read industry publications, attend conferences , and participate in online forums to keep up-to-date and demonstrate your expertise.  At JV Recruitment, we are committed to supporting construction professionals in achieving their career goals. Our team of experienced recruiters can provide valuable insights, job opportunities , and guidance to help you take your career to the next level. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your career growth in the construction industry.
27 Mar, 2024
The construction industry is a dynamic and challenging field that requires a diverse set of skills to succeed. While technical proficiency is undoubtedly necessary, the role of soft skills is often overlooked. In this blog post, we'll explore the crucial importance of soft skills in the construction industry and how they contribute to the success of construction professionals. Communication At JV Recruitment, we know communication is the foundation for any successful construction project. The roles we place emphasise: Active listening skills to understand the needs of site foremen, architects, and engineers and accurately translate that to tradespeople. Clearly conveying complex technical instructions, blueprints and project specs in ways that are easily understood, regardless of language barrier. Adaptability to communicate effectively across different audiences - from office managers focused on schedules and costs to hands-on construction crews in the field. Problem-Solving Construction is a field where unexpected issues are the norm, not the exception. Skilled problem-solvers are a must for the roles JV Recruitment fills. We seek candidates who can: 1. Quickly identify the root cause behind delays, code violations, material shortages or structural defects and implement a solution. 2. Think creatively to find workarounds like alternative materials, rerouting schedules or adjusting designs when roadblocks occur. 3. Make calculated decisions balancing quality, timelines and budgets to keep projects progressing despite changes and setbacks. Teamwork No construction job can be accomplished alone - our placements require collaboration across all levels of the project team. Top candidates demonstrate: 1. The ability to work cooperatively alongside project managers, engineers, inspectors, tradespeople and labourers towards shared milestones. 2. Resolving conflicts constructively through negotiation tactics, such as mediation of change orders or artistry disputes. 3. Flexibility to take on tasks outside their primary role, pivot from original plans and integrate seamlessly with new crew rotations. The Role of JV Recruitment At JV Recruitment, we understand the importance of soft skills in the construction industry. Our experienced team of recruiters is dedicated to helping construction professionals identify and cultivate the soft skills that will set them apart in their careers. Whether you're a seasoned construction professional looking to enhance your soft skills or a company seeking top talent with a potent combination of technical expertise and interpersonal abilities, JV Recruitment is here to support you. Browse our job openings or contact us to discuss your recruitment needs today.
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