Fortunately, help is at hand. The following tips are designed to help you get back on your feet and to maximise your chances of finding a more rewarding job, so you can carve out a successful career in construction.



What to do next

Accepting that you need to step outside your comfort zone and look for a new construction job is sometimes a hard thing to do. However, if you do need a change of surroundings, don't let a fear of the unknown prevent you from taking action that could ultimately make you happier, more fulfilled and better remunerated.

Before taking decisive action, you must think hard about exactly what it is you want to move on to do. Do you want to find a similar construction job to the one you currently have, or do you want to try something completely different? Maybe you want to move to a new town and city.

Make a list of your skills, experience, likes and dislikes. Work out exactly what you want to do and match this to the skills required in other construction jobs. Use the Internet to carry out research, speak to others and check out company websites. You will need to put an up-to-date CV and cover letter together and send off job applications.

Only resign from your current construction job after accepting an alternative offer, as you do not want to spend time unemployed while you consider your next move.

Was the change in circumstances forced upon you?

Of course, the decision to seek pastures new might not have been entirely yours. If you have been fired or laid off, the worst thing you can do is sit at home moping around and becoming disillusioned about your future. You have to remain active and begin searching for new construction jobs immediately, as the longer you are unemployed the harder it is to find work.

Whatever the circumstances surrounding your departure from your last job, try to remain positive and look upon it as a chance for a fresh start.

Consider all your options as outlined above and remember to use any contacts you might have within the construction industry. What about ex-employers? Perhaps a former colleague now has their own business? Does Uncle John know anyone who might be able to offer you work?

Be proactive and sell yourself to potential employers. Remember that they receive many applications for every construction job, so you need to ensure you are as well prepared as possible.