Getting into the trades is a great career choice, but if you want to move up into leadership positions, mastering management skills will be essential. Here are 13 tips that can set you apart and help you to become a top-notch manager in the trades:

1. Mental Attitude:

Start every day with a positive mindset. Understand that you're a leader and need to be better than others to advance. A great attitude sets the stage for success. It’s not just about showing up; it’s about bringing the energy and focus that inspires your team and sets the standard for the day, and about helping others to be their very best.

2. Leadership:

Learn how to lead and support your team. Help them grow and contribute positively to the company. Effective leadership means understanding each team member’s strengths and weaknesses and guiding them to improve. Provide clear instructions and be open to questions. Make sure that everyone knows the goals they’re trying to hit, and their role in accomplishing that goal.

3. Communication:

Be an effective communicator. Listening is key. Understand what motivates your team and strive for a win-win situation for everyone. Good communication builds trust and keeps everyone informed and engaged. Encourage feedback and foster an environment where team members feel comfortable sharing their ideas.

4. Dress to Impress:

Present yourself professionally. If most of the people you work with are wearing old, ratty clothes, don’t do that. Dressing in clean clothes in good condition can show you take pride in your work. The way you dress reflects your attitude toward your job and can influence how others perceive you. Dressing well can also boost your confidence and set a professional tone.

5. Dress for the Job You Want:

Look at those in positions above you. How are they dressing? Can you dress like them and still do your job well? A polished appearance can open doors. Pay attention to details like clean shoes and ironed clothes. Dressing for the job you want shows ambition and readiness for advancement.

6. Learn the Numbers:

Understand the numbers that drive your job. Know your weekly hours and usage to manage effectively. Familiarize yourself with budgets, costs, and schedules to make informed decisions. Knowing the numbers helps you identify areas for improvement and track progress.

7. Know the Bid Numbers:

Understand how jobs are bid. Talk to estimators and learn the labor factors and hours needed for tasks. This knowledge allows you to properly manage resources and ensure projects stay on track. Knowing the bid numbers helps you anticipate challenges and adjust plans as needed, and will help you stay on track each and every day.

8. Know Labor Numbers Per Task:

Understanding the labor required for each task helps you allocate resources effectively and avoid overloading your team. Track labor hours for specific tasks. Set clear expectations for your team and help them meet targets. One thing I tried to do was to make sure everyone had all the materials they needed all in one place. That small thing can make a team so much more efficient.

9. Build a Good Culture:

Create a positive work environment. Encourage motivation and productivity through regular team meetings. A strong culture fosters teamwork, loyalty, and pride in the work. Celebrate successes and create a sense of community where everyone feels valued and invested in the project’s success. Do anything at all that you can to make your crews happy.

10. Praise Publicly:

Recognize and celebrate achievements publicly. Positive reinforcement boosts morale and motivation. Acknowledge hard work in front of others. It not only helps the person you’re praising, it also encourages others to strive for similar recognition. It also reinforces desired behaviors and sets a standard for excellence.

11. Discuss Problems Privately:

Address issues in private. Understand your team’s challenges and offer support when needed. Private discussions show respect and protect the employee’s dignity. They also provide an opportunity for open dialogue and problem-solving without the pressure of public scrutiny. Give people a chance to talk, and often you’ll find there’s a reason why they’re not at the standard you expect.

12. Stay Ahead of Your Team:

Anticipate problems and prepare solutions before they arise. Keep your team informed and ready. Proactive management minimizes disruptions and keeps the project moving smoothly. If you can identify a problem before your team, you can also have solutions ready for them to help them stay on track. Stay updated on project developments and be prepared to adapt plans as necessary.

13. Ensure Tools and Materials Are Ready:

Avoid delays by making sure your team has the necessary tools and materials ahead of time. This helps maintain efficiency. Plan and coordinate logistics to prevent downtime so that your team can work without interruption. Man, it’s tough when a team gets mobilized to work only to find they’re missing essential parts to the job. Keep your teams happy and productive by making sure they have everything they need before they need it.

My biggest tip is this: always be present on the job site. You can’t do most of these things if you don’t have your boots on site. Your presence shows leadership and commitment. Share your experiences and let your team know you lead from the front. Engage with your team, address concerns, and be available to assist when needed. This hands-on approach is the best way to build trust and demonstrates your dedication to the team’s success.