Construction jobsites are not isolated from their surrounding communities but are integral parts of them.
Establishing connections with local schools can bring numerous benefits to the mental health and wellbeing of workers. These connections create a sense of community, provide opportunities for skill development and mentorship, and contribute to a positive work environment.
By fostering partnerships with local schools, employers can enhance the overall wellbeing of workers while making a positive impact on the next generation.
Implementation Tactics:
Volunteer programs:
Encourage workers to volunteer their time and expertise at local schools by offering mentoring, career talks, or construction-related workshops.
Coordinate with school administrators to identify areas where workers can contribute their knowledge and skills effectively.
Apprenticeship and internship opportunities:
Collaborate with local schools to provide apprenticeship or internship programs for students interested in pursuing careers in the construction industry.
This provides practical experience for students and promotes a positive perception of the industry, while offering workers an opportunity to mentor and guide aspiring professionals.
Educational partnerships:
Engage in educational partnerships with local schools by sponsoring educational programs, scholarships, or construction-related initiatives. This not only benefits students but also enhances the reputation of the construction company as a responsible community partner.
Behavioral Science Principles:
Reciprocity principle:
Create a culture of reciprocity by demonstrating the positive impact of connecting with local schools.
Workers who engage in these activities are more likely to feel a sense of fulfillment and purpose, leading to increased job satisfaction and improved mental health.
Social identity theory:
Emphasize the collective identity and shared values between the construction industry and local schools.
By showcasing the industry’s commitment to community engagement and the importance of education, workers are more likely to perceive their work as meaningful, contributing to their overall wellbeing.
Intrinsic motivation:
Tap into workers’ intrinsic motivation by highlighting the personal and emotional rewards that come from connecting with local schools.
Stress the value of sharing knowledge, inspiring future generations, and leaving a positive legacy within the community.
Sources:
- Construction Industry Training Board. (n.d.). Engaging with Schools and Colleges. Retrieved from https://www.citb.co.uk/about-citb/how-we-support-you/employer-reward-and-support/engaging-with-schools-and-colleges/
- The Health Foundation. (2019). How Engaging with Schools Can Benefit the Health and Wellbeing of NHS Staff. Retrieved from https://www.health.org.uk/news-and-comment/blogs/how-engaging-with-schools-can-benefit-the-health-and-wellbeing-of-nhs-staff
- National Association of Home Builders. (n.d.). Construction Careers: Reaching Out to Students. Retrieved from https://www.nahb.org/nahb-community/industry-support/student-chapters/resource-materials/engaging-with-students
- North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. (n.d.). Construction Career Days. Retrieved from http://www.ncconstructioncareerdays.com/
- WorkSafe Victoria. (n.d.). Community Engagement. Retrieved from https://www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/community-engagement
