top of page
Writer's pictureConstruction Champions Podcast

Leadership, Culture, and Hiring Veterans

In this insightful episode of the Construction Champions podcast, host Ron Nussbaum sits down with JJ Hardy, a retired US Army warrant officer and leadership expert, to discuss critical aspects of building successful teams in the construction industry. Their conversation delves into leadership strategies, company culture, and the untapped potential of hiring veterans.


Leadership, Culture, and Hiring Veterans Blog Image

What Makes a Construction Champion?

Key Leadership Qualities

According to JJ Hardy, a construction champion is someone who:

  • Demonstrates an excellent work ethic

  • Can connect personally with team members

  • Understands the work at every level

  • Respects and values labor workers

"Never forget where you come from... make sure that you're always making sure that you can stay valuable."

Transforming Construction Industry Culture

Moving Beyond the "Hammer" Mentality

The discussion highlights a critical shift in leadership approach:

  • Old approach: Using intimidation and force

  • New approach: Creating an environment people want to be part of

  • Focus on building relationships, not breaking spirits


Promoting the Right People

Ron shares a pivotal experience about promoting employees:

  • Not everyone wants to move up the career ladder

  • Critical step: Ask employees about their career aspirations

  • Avoid assuming top performers want management roles


The Power of Hiring Veterans

Why Veterans are Ideal for Construction

JJ Hardy passionately advocates for hiring veterans:

  • Reliable workers who:

    • Show up on time

    • Follow instructions

    • Want to be part of a team

  • Potential for high loyalty and retention

  • Opportunity to support those transitioning to civilian life


Recruitment Strategies

Recommended approaches for hiring veterans:

  • Connect with military transition offices

  • Build relationships with local military installations

  • Offer opportunities for skill development

  • Provide a supportive work environment


Effective Hiring Practices

Removing Personal Bias

Key recommendations for hiring:

  • Take business owners out of direct hiring process

  • Use cross-departmental interview teams

  • Focus on:

    • Job qualifications

    • Cultural fit

    • Potential for growth


Watch the interview today!


Conclusion

The conversation between Ron and JJ provides a roadmap for construction businesses to:

  • Develop strong, supportive leadership

  • Create positive workplace cultures

  • Recruit and retain top talent, especially veterans


Links

Phone: 757-325-5910


Get more leads, Set more estimates, and Close more jobs https://www.build12.com/constructionchampions?am_id=ron625


Simplify Your Construction Projects, Boost Your Productivity


Building Home Profiles


Get Your Own Branded Software


Join our community



Association of Professional Builders Annual Report



Leadership, Culture, and Hiring Veterans


Comments


bottom of page