Industry Spotlights

When it comes to attracting candidates in the construction industry, employers may need to carefully consider the structure of their salary package. While salary and compensation is the number one driver for construction candidates when looking for their next role, they are particularly drawn to benefits such as mobile phone, car and clothing allowances, as well as bonuses and profit-share arrangements.

Salary and compensation is the top driver of attraction for 17.9% of respondents, however there are other key factors, such as job security and work-life balance, that influence a candidate’s employment choices in the construction industry.  

Job security, which was ranked fourth place by respondents in 2012, is now the second greatest driver of attraction (13.2%). The downturn in mining and resources may have contributed to this change as more respondents now value job security over career development opportunities, which has slipped from second to fourth place.

Work-life balance is the third most important factor to influence candidates in the construction industry (11.5%). Job location has moved up the ranks from sixth to fifth place and working environment is also seen as a greater enticement today, moving up one place to number six.

“The construction industry is a highly skills-based sector and organisations should look to invest in their staff’s development to the benefit of both the employee and employer. Savvy employers should also consider voluntary or subsidised health and wellness benefits to address the increased risk and stress associated with the industry and to mitigate project downtime and gaps in income.” – Luke Borg, Managing Director, Judd Farris Recruitment

Candidates are also interested in a company’s commitment to safety with two in five respondents citing an excellent OH&S reputation as a ‘must have’. They are also significantly more likely to be looking for an Australian-owned company.

Corporate social responsibility is also of greater influence to candidates today, while the size of a company is now considered less important when it comes to making employment choices.

Employers who can offer additional benefits beyond base salary will have more chance of attracting the best construction talent, however job security is also an important factor and work-life balance is highly desirable. Companies should also demonstrate their investment in OH&S and a strong commitment to the safety of their workers.

About this research: The data points referred to on this page are drawn from the SEEK Laws of Attraction survey. For more information about the SEEK Laws of Attraction survey and the terms and conditions governing the use of this data, click here.