Strategies for Employee Empowerment in Construction: US Industry Outlook

Abstract

The construction industry is essential for the economic prosperity of any nation. However, the construction workforce encounters numerous challenges stemming from various factors, including the dynamic and cyclical nature of construction operations. These challenges have led to undesired outcomes such as shortage of skilled employees and increased employee turnover rates. To overcome these undesired outcomes, construction companies have started to look for innovative strategies aimed at empowering their employees. The goal of the present study was to identify and statistically examine the most effective strategies for achieving employee empowerment, focusing specifically on the perspective of employees themselves. To achieve the study goal, a list of strategies from prior studies believed to be desired for empowering construction employees were identified from existing literature. A survey questionnaire was developed and sent to frontline construction employees, and 114 responses were collected. After collecting the responses, descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed. The findings identified 12 strategies perceived to be effective for empowering construction employees and provided statistical evidence to support the effectiveness of these strategies. In particular, equitable payment, nondiscrimination policy, transparency, and professional development/training were identified as particularly impactful in advancing employee empowerment in construction. By implementing the identified strategies, construction companies are expected to cultivate a positive work environment that fosters employee engagement, improves productivity, and ultimately contributes to overall organizational success. Future research and industry initiatives can build upon these findings to further enhance employee empowerment and well-being in the construction industry and facilitate the implementation of these strategies throughout the industry. The present study contributes to the understanding of employee empowerment in construction by highlighting the strategies perceived as highly effective by construction employees.