Surviving the Chaos: Strategies for the Construction Workforce Crisis
On February 19, 2023, the Japan Good Builder Association (JGBA) hosted a significant seminar titled "Surviving the Chaos: Strategies to Overcome Labor Shortages and Rising Labor Costs in the Construction Industry". This event, held both in-person and online, attracted a total of 55 participants, with 40 joining remotely and 15 attending physically.
Keynote Speaker Insights
The seminar featured Yuichi Takiguchi, the CEO of DRH, a company renowned for its expertise in management consulting and corporate training. With a background in M&A and corporate rehabilitation at a major real estate firm, Takiguchi shared valuable insights into the pressing issues facing the construction industry today. The construction sector is grappling with a surge in bankruptcies due to labor shortages and increasing initial salary levels, which directly contribute to rising labor costs. Takiguchi emphasized the transformation necessary within the industry to view human resources as an ultimate asset, advocating for the strategy known as "human capital management".
He illustrated, through practical examples, the importance of maximizing the value of talent and transitioning towards long-term enterprise value enhancement through this strategic approach.
Addressing Workforce Issues
A critical point raised during the seminar was the necessity of enhancing employee engagement to reduce turnover rates. According to Takiguchi, dissatisfaction with interpersonal relationships often emerges as the primary reason behind resignations. Enhancing trust and loyalty among employees through improved engagement is essential. He argued that middle management plays a pivotal role in motivating team members, thus establishing an organizational structure crucial to a company's future.
In terms of recruitment, Takiguchi stressed the importance of company leaders taking an active role in human resources, spearheading initiatives that attract team members who resonate with the company's vision. Cultivating an organization's charm is essential and should be a concerted effort across all departments.
Investing in Human Capital
The seminar concluded with Takiguchi's call for companies to view investments in human resources not merely as expenses, but as strategic investments aimed at enhancing corporate value. He encouraged the assembly to foster autonomous teams that consistently engage with the market and maintain a continuous reflective process. This systematic approach, he posited, is the key to thriving amidst a volatile environment.
Participants expressed their appreciation for the depth of the content covered, describing how the seminar enhanced their understanding of human capital management's core principles and the initial steps necessary for its implementation. Feedback highlighted the clarity of the issues discussed, particularly the significance of engagement, talent development, and crystalizing company philosophy.
About DRH
DRH, established in 2023, specializes in management consulting and corporate training. With a track record of conducting nearly 110 training sessions annually, the company boasts an impressive 4,400 trainees. DRH provides advisory services and management development support to a variety of clients, from publicly listed companies to small construction firms. The company leverages knowledge from psychology to foster organizational development and coaching, thus supporting the practical application of human capital management.
For more information, visit
DRH's official website.
Ongoing Engagement with JGBA
The JGBA continuously hosts events throughout the year, offering various seminars that cater to remodeling companies, local builders, and additional areas such as outreach, management, and recruitment. Popular events also include study tours and regional exchange meetings.
To learn more about JGBA’s annual event schedule, visit
JGBA's schedule.
About JGBA
Founded to enhance the housing industry through collective improvement among local builders and companies, the JGBA engages in various study groups and tours. The organization prioritizes disseminating authentic information and sharing knowledge, providing some insights even to non-members.
Contact JGBA:
- - Address: 4F Strong Akasaka Building, 3-5-5 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
- - President: Ryo Tajima
- - Established: January 20, 2021
- - Website: JGBA Official Site
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