The construction industry isn’t exactly known for its exciting new tech. For the newest generation of workers, who grew up using smartphones and laptops on a daily basis, trade work seems rooted in tradition.

Younger people often decline to pursue lucrative training or job opportunities in this industry because they assume construction companies aren’t modern or forward-thinking. They don’t want to learn new, complex skill sets to work in a business built on outdated tools and infrastructures. Old-fashioned processes like pen and paper reporting or paper time cards, both of which are still widely used in construction, discourage many potential applicants.

However, despite the industry’s reputation, some construction companies embrace technology and utilize modern solutions for daily reports, time tracking, payroll, communications and other crucial operations. The companies that use technology in this way are far more likely to attract and retain qualified young workers.  

Welcome to the digital age

In today’s competitive job market, company culture is just as important as more tangible concerns like salary and benefits. When it comes to finding qualified applicants, construction companies are going head to head with offices that offer modern benefits like remote work or state-of-the-art workstations.

It’s not specific perks that most potential employees are looking for, it’s an attitude. Almost all younger workers use various digital devices every day in their personal lives, and in general those devices make their lives easier. For them, technology exists to simplify—or even automate—important tasks and improve communication. They typically search for a position with a company that welcomes change, adapting to new technology as it becomes available.

Consistently evaluating new, time-saving tech solutions shows younger workers that a construction business is invested in the future. Business owners should regularly research the best hardware and software options for their industry and ensure the technology they use is comparable.

Clearly communicating an interest in technology in job postings and during interviews will attract younger talent. There’s no need for a business to be on the cutting edge of every new technological development, but stay aware of best practices. Choose the right tools to optimize key processes and keep younger employees invested.

Digital reporting is key

Tedious, manual pen and paper documentation is no longer acceptable for many young workers. Written reports that must be transcribed are too time-consuming and leave too much room for error or miscommunication to be effective. This is especially clear to the youngest generation, who frequently use their own devices to record and share data with friends, family and followers.

Daily reporting, often considered one of the most stressful aspects of the workday, is streamlined with the right technology. There are plenty of digital construction management tools that replace pen and paper reporting. Many allow workers to use their own mobile devices to capture reporting data from the field, including photos and videos, and some automatically publish the information collected in a clear, professional format. Information can also be shared instantly between teams with the use of cloud storage.

Digital reporting improves project visibility and productivity. Eliminating manual data entry saves workers time, allowing them to focus on project-related responsibilities. This helps younger employees feel like they are applying their energy wisely and allows them to implement technology they already use in their personal lives, like smartphones, to make their jobs easier.

Some digital reporting tools—like this app designed by industry leader Raken—offer time tracking, material tracking, and other capabilities all within the same system. Finding a simple, affordable solution that meets several business needs at once is ideal.

Consider the entire tech stack

Most construction companies are already using technology in the office. The accounting team may use payroll software, project managers may have their own systems for organizing projects, or the entire office may utilize cloud storage.

Any new solutions you implement for the field should work seamlessly with current systems. The beauty of modern technology is the fact that much of it plays well together. When information can be shared between devices and applications there is less need for data entry, once again saving employees valuable time, reducing errors, and limiting the need for manual review.

Implementing an integrated tech stack shows that a construction company values good time management. Younger workers expect modern employers to respect their time, and eliminating the need for manual communication or data entry with integrated systems is an excellent way to demonstrate that.

Invest in your workers

Modern construction companies can more easily provide educational opportunities for their employees by offering digital training.

Younger workers take their education seriously and generally want to grow professionally. However, they may also be less inclined to spend hours traveling or take time away from a busy project to attend in-person classes. The younger generation prioritizes work-life balance, and any task that is separate from their core responsibilities, including training, should be reasonable and considerate of their schedules. 

Online courses can often be completed via personal device at the employee’s convenience. Not only do younger workers appreciate the flexibility of digital training, they may prefer it. Many younger employees learn best when they are able to complete required training on their own time, in a format they are familiar with.

Modern companies attract modern workers

Technology is an increasingly important part of everyday life. The youngest generation of the workforce wants to work for modern employers who understand that fact and use technology to help them work efficiently.

By implementing the right technology to automate reporting, improve communications, and save time, construction companies can attract and retain more young workers.