At Humres, we know that leadership style can make or break a construction team. So, we went straight to the source and asked construction candidates:
“What kind of leadership helps you thrive at work?”
The results speak volumes about what today’s construction professionals expect:
Collaborative and Supportive – 64%
The overwhelming favourite. Construction professionals value leaders who are present, approachable, and actively involved in projects. It’s not about micromanaging – it’s about partnership: offering advice, solving challenges together, and building trust on site and in the office.
Clear Guidance and Structure – 16%
Some thrive when expectations are well-defined. In construction, where precision matters, professionals appreciate leaders who provide clear plans, timelines, and structured goals to keep projects running smoothly.
Hands-Off with Autonomy – 14%
Certain candidates prefer to be trusted with responsibility. They want the freedom to own their tasks and deliver results independently, knowing their manager trusts their expertise.
Visionary and Goal-Focused – 6%
While having a big-picture mindset is important, only a small group prioritised this as their ideal leadership style. In construction, the day-to-day collaboration and support matter more than just high-level vision.
What This Means for Employers in Construction
Collaboration is king.
Construction teams thrive under leaders who balance structure with support. Being available to solve problems, offering clear expectations, and building trust are key to retaining and motivating your team.
The best leaders know when to step up and when to give their team space to deliver.
If you’re looking to build a construction team that delivers quality and stays loyal, we can help you find and retain the right people. Get in touch to start building your great team.