Construction is a competitive industry offering many rewarding career paths and it can all begin with your first job. But how do you go about getting a toehold in the industry? How can you find out about jobs in construction, and what can you do to give yourself the best possible chance of securing one?



The process of applying for construction jobs often begins by sending off your CV to potential employers along with a cover letter - which is one of the most important things to get right. Your cover letter highlights your main skills and experience and should be used to emphasise your suitability for the construction job in question.

Work experience is essential for many jobs, and you should ensure you maximise any construction experience you might have.

Writing a cover letter

There is no strict formula for writing a cover letter, but there are a few important points to keep in mind:

Introduction

The most important sentence of the whole document. A catchy opening will encourage the recipient to read on, and it should briefly explain why you have applied for this particular construction job.

Main Body

Demonstrate how your skills, qualifications and experience match the role for which you are applying. Explain why you are applying to this particular company and why you feel you are suited to the job.

Closing Paragraph

End on a positive note and urge the reader to contact you. Make sure the letter is presented properly and put your address at the top right hand corner, with the company's address at the top left. Ensure your paragraphs are justified to the left and that the font is consistent throughout.

Do not merely send out copies of mass-produced cover letters. Remember to tailor them for the specific job and company you are applying for.

Getting the most out of work experience in the hunt for a construction job

Undertaking work experience is a way of obtaining the skills required in the construction industry as well as helping you decide whether construction is really for you. Ways of obtaining experience in the construction industry include voluntary work, internships, gap work and sandwich courses.

Utilise existing contacts to secure work placements within the construction industry and use the experience to build new contacts and secure references. Make the most of your construction work experience by setting goals, obtaining feedback, proactively contributing and asking questions about various jobs.

Work experience can be a very useful thing to highlight when applying for a new job, as it shows your desire to work within the construction industry. Putting the maximum effort into your temporary role will help you get the most out of it and may even lead to a real construction job.