A couple weeks ago, I was working on a publicity project with a smaller, private homebuilder.  Their goal is to increase production from just under 1,000 units to about 5,000 units in the next five or so years.  I spent some time speaking with the President about the company’s future, and what he needs to do now to get it there.  I asked him what was most important for his success, and he said, “the need of the right people!”

I went on to ask him about the qualities he looked for in potential candidates.  “The right individuals,” he said, “are those that have the ambition to be part of a growing company.” 

“The people I look for are individuals with a strong passion for business, a high sense of energy and drive, and are well respected within the business.  Relationships are key, and the individuals must want and like to be part of a growing organization.”

Homebuilding jobseekers should take much of what this President said to heart.  There are great opportunities with many smaller builders right now, who have the opportunity to grab market share and experience tremendous growth on the upside of this cycle.  Those companies need a certain type of individual:  the high-energy, ambitious “grower”.  This is the type of person who wakes up at four A.M. on their first day of work because they are so excited to start a new opportunity.

So, what is a jobseeker to do?  If you think you are a fit for this type of position, focus on ways to differentiate yourself as a “grower” rather than a “maintainer”.  Think of examples from past and current work experience that show the “grower” in you.