599: Mastering Leadership In Construction: From Passive To Assertive

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This Podcast Is Episode 599, And It's About Mastering Leadership In Construction: From Passive To Assertive Effective leadership is crucial for project success in the dynamically challenging construction environment. A Project Manager (PM) oversees operations, guides teams through day-to-day tasks, ensures effective communication, and maintains stakeholder alignment. As many of you, our readers and clients, are both wearing two hats - PM and Owner; it's essential to understand the advantages and disadvantages of taking on both roles. As a Project Manager and a Business Owner, you deeply understand the entire process, from planning to execution. This holistic view allows for better decision-making. You have the authority to implement your vision and strategies, ensuring that quality and efficiency align with your goals. You can build long-term relationships with clients, subcontractors, and suppliers, enhancing trust and collaboration. As the owner, you can choose the projects you want to take and the direction of your business, allowing for personal and professional growth. However, balancing the responsibilities of both roles can lead to very long hours and difficulty maintaining a work-life balance. As both a PM and business owner, the weight of decisions falls on your shoulders, which can be stressful. Ownership also involves financial investment and risks, mainly if projects do not go as planned—this could include juggling resources, including labor, materials, and budgets, which can be challenging and may lead to conflicts. You may often face unexpected challenges that require immediate attention, leading to a high-pressure environment. As a business owner, you might find it hard to delegate tasks, feeling the need to oversee everything, which can lead to burnout. The key to balancing these roles is knowing your strengths and limitations. First, it is important to recognize that various leadership styles can empower PMs and Owners to adapt their approach for optimal results. Here are several essential styles of leadership to consider in Construction Project Management. 1. Autocratic Leadership Autocratic leaders make decisions independently, with little input from team members. This can benefit construction projects when quick decisions are required, such as during critical program changes or when addressing safety issues. However, while it can expedite decision-making, this style may suppress team creativity and engagement. 2. Transformational Leadership Transformational leaders inspire and motivate their teams by promoting a shared vision. In construction, where project goals often evolve, this style can be particularly effective in driving change. By empowering team members and fostering innovation, transformational leaders can cultivate a proactive environment that aligns with the project's objectives. 3. Servant Leadership This style focuses on team members' growth and well-being. Servant leaders prioritize collaboration and support to meet their team's needs. In construction, this approach enhances morale and encourages open communication, vital for troubleshooting issues and delivering projects on time. 4. Democratic Leadership Democratic leaders solicit input and collaborate with their teams on decision-making. This leadership style can enhance team cohesion and ensure all voices are heard. Engaging team members in planning and problem-solving in construction projects can lead to more innovative solutions and a stronger sense of ownership among the workforce. 5. Transactional Leadership Transactional leaders focus on clear structures and defined tasks, rewarding compliance and performance. This can be vital for maintaining schedules, budgets, and compliance with safety regulations in a construction setting. While this style ensures accountability, it may not foster creativity or long-term commitment among team members. 6. Laissez-Faire Leadership Laissez-faire leaders offer minimal direction and allow team members to make decisions. This approach can be effective in construction when managing highly skilled professionals who thrive in autonomous environments. However, clear guidelines may lead to a lack of coordination and inefficiency. 7. Situational Leadership Situational leadership requires adaptability, allowing the PM to adjust their style based on the project and team's needs. This flexibility is particularly beneficial in construction, where unforeseen challenges often arise. By assessing situational variables—such as team dynamics or project complexity—a PM can choose the most effective leadership style at any given time. Leadership styles significantly impact team dynamics, productivity, and overall business success. While you may think adapting to the situation is the best option, you need to consider this: Yes, a passive leadership style may seem non-confrontational and agreeable, but it often leads to unresolved issues, a lack of direction, and decreased morale. Transforming from a passive to an assertive leadership style can be a game-changer for your business. Understanding Passive vs. Assertive Leadership Passive leaders usually:

• Avoid conflict at all costs
• Hesitate to express opinions or make decisions
• Allow others to dictate terms
• Fail to set clear expectations and boundaries

Assertive leaders usually:

• Communicate openly and honestly
• Make decisions confidently
• Set and enforce clear expectations
• Respect both your rights and those of others

The Challenges of Passive Leadership Passive leaders often struggle to articulate their needs and expectations, leading to team confusion, frustration, and inefficiency. For instance, a passive leader might avoid addressing a team member's repeated tardiness, resulting in resentment among other employees who adhere to punctuality. The Benefits of Becoming Assertive Transforming into an assertive leader brings numerous advantages:

• Improved Communication: Clear, direct communication reduces misunderstandings and fosters transparency.
• Enhanced Team Morale: Employees value fair and consistent leaders, leading to higher job satisfaction.
• Better Decision-Making: Assertive leaders make timely and informed decisions, driving the business forward.
• Increased Respect: Teams respect leaders who stand by their principles and address issues promptly.

Practical Tips for Making the Shift 1. Start Small: Begin by asserting yourself in low-stakes situations. Practice expressing your opinions in meetings or setting minor boundaries. 2. Use "I" Statements: Frame your thoughts using "I" statements to take ownership of your feelings. For example, say, "I feel concerned when deadlines are missed," instead of "You always miss deadlines." 3. Try Active Listening: Listen attentively to show that you value others' input. This fosters mutual respect and opens the door for more assertive interactions. 4. Set Clear Expectations: Clearly define your team's roles, responsibilities, and expectations. This will help prevent ambiguity and ensure everyone knows what is required. 5. Seek Feedback: Ask trusted colleagues or mentors about your leadership style. Use this input to adjust and improve your assertiveness. 6. Stay Calm and Composed: Try to maintain a calm attitude, even in challenging situations. This helps keep discussions constructive and focused on solutions. 7. Learn to Say No: Say no when necessary. Respectfully declining requests that don't align with your goals ensures your resources are used effectively. Final thoughts Choosing the right leadership style as a Project Manager or a Business Owner (or both) in construction is crucial to navigating the complexities of each project. Influential leaders recognize the value of blending different styles and adapting their approach to changing circumstances. By leveraging these various leadership styles, PMs can foster a productive work environment, drive team performance, and ultimately enhance project success. The ability to inspire, engage, and direct team efforts will not only lead to the completion of projects on time and within budget but can also pave the way for sustained growth and improvement within the organization. Transitioning from a passive to an assertive leadership style is a transformative journey that requires practice and commitment. The benefits—improved communication, better decision-making, increased respect, and enhanced team morale—are worth the effort. By embracing assertiveness, you can lead your team more effectively and drive your business toward tremendous success. Do you need further guidance on developing your assertiveness? Perhaps you would like to focus more on your business and leadership journey. We are here to support you, whether you need a little or a lot of help. Contact me today.

About The Author:

Sharie DeHart, QPA, is the co-founder of Business Consulting And Accounting in Lynnwood, Washington. She is the leading expert in managing outsourced construction bookkeeping and accounting services companies and cash management accounting for small construction companies across the USA. She encourages Contractors and Construction Company Owners to stay current on their tax obligations and offers insights on managing the remaining cash flow to operate and grow their construction company sales and profits so they can put more money in the bank. Call 1-800-361-1770 or [e-mail]