Category: Career Advice

  • How to land your first project management role in construction

    Breaking into project management can feel daunting, especially when most junior roles ask for experience you haven’t had the chance to gain yet. Our consultants work with graduate and early-career candidates every week, and the same few things consistently separate those who land a role from those who don’t.

    Start where your existing experience is strongest

    Site-based experience, a quantity surveying background or a technical trade qualification are all strong springboards into project management. Employers value people who understand how a build actually happens on site, not just the theory.

    Get the right tickets and qualifications

    A recognised qualification (HNC/HND, a construction management degree, or working towards chartered status) signals commitment and gives you a shortlist advantage even without years of PM experience.

    Register your CV with us and we’ll match you against the roles where your background genuinely fits.

  • Contracting vs permanent — which is right for you?

    More candidates are weighing up the pros and cons of contract work versus a permanent role. Both have real advantages, and the right answer depends on what stage of your career you’re at and how much you value stability versus flexibility and rate.

    The case for contracting

    Day rates are typically higher, you’ll work across a wider variety of projects, and you have more control over when and where you work between assignments.

    The case for permanent

    Job security, benefits, training investment and a clearer long-term career path all favour a permanent role — particularly earlier in your career.

    Not sure which suits you? Register your CV and one of our consultants will talk it through with you.