The COVID-19 pandemic is still being mentioned and held responsible for affecting both supply and demand mechanisms and for presenting an unprecedented set of challenges to several industries. However, when it comes to the construction sector, it is believed that this industry has been facing daunting challenges way before the pandemic era. Although it is considered one of the most profitable industries in the world, the ever-increasing list of demands and challenges means there’s a lot of pressure on construction firms or construction contractors to meet expectations and successfully complete building projects. After extensive research, it was revealed that poor communication is one of the root causes that are creating conflicts and issues in the construction industry.
Communication is the cornerstone of contemporary society as it helps us to build relationships, convey ideas and experiences and connect to others. It also plays a vital role in the workplace. As an important part of business management, good communication is essential for a company’s reputation and growth. Effective communication in the construction industry, for example, can boost employee productivity, encourage teamwork and create an environment of trust. On the other hand, lack of communication or poor communication can foster a disconnection and disconnected workers can have a detrimental effect on your construction business.
When good communication is not prioritized, deadlines are missed, client appointments are missed and you fail to meet set goals. All of this can then create hurdles that affect the reputation of a construction company.
But, one of the best ways that can improve communication in a construction firm and keep everyone informed is by adopting the “huddle” strategy.
What Is a Huddle?
In sports, a huddle is a general term used when a team gathers together to motivate, celebrate or strategize. This strategy earned more fame when it was widely used in cricket after the Indian national team used it to win big during the 2003 Cricket World Cup. Since then, several industries have imitated and used this technique and many have reported positive results.
In the workplace, a huddle, also known as a “stand up meeting” or “scrum”, is a short yet focused and sharp team meeting that takes place on a regular basis. This meeting doesn’t usually last more than 15-20 minutes and can either be done face-to-face or virtually (via a phone call or via a zoom meeting).
In general, huddles are meetings that revolve around an information board or center, which acts as an agenda. Companies use these strategy meetings to achieve the goals they’ve set.
What Are the Benefits of Daily Huddle Meetings?
- Track progress towards goals and metrics that were set in meetings
- There’s more transparency and accountability for the day’s work
- Unnecessary or ineffective communication over email and social media is reduced
- Help workers come together and work as a united team.
What Do Other Owners Think of Huddle Meetings?
“Your employees’ voices are crucial to the growth of your organization, and it’s important to show your team that you value their input. When employees understand and feel the impact that their role has on our business’ success—no matter how small that role may be—they are more empowered, confident, and engaged.”
From Emily Grey, owner and founder of Flourish Market
“We love huddles so much that this has caused us to have more frequent one-on-one huddles throughout the week with direct reports. This keeps everyone on the same page and reduces the chances of any problems coming up.”
From Brian Lim, founder and CEO of Into the AM
“As our priorities change each day, team huddles are a wonderful way to ease into the day, remain on the same page, and bring up any and all issues before a hectic work day begins.”
From Yuvi Alpert, founder and CEO of Noémie Progress check-ins
