FEATURE ACTING WITH CONFIDENCE
Lasting change comes consistent daily efforts. “Some people questioned it at first, especially moving away from old-school industry norms, but we stayed consistent and communicated the ‘why’ behind everything we did. “We reinforced family-first values, made space for wellbeing, and supported anyone who needed help, especially with mental health. Gradually, the atmosphere changed. People felt valued, connected and proud to work here. It’s created an environment where clients recommend us, staff stay, and we continue to build KingsRock into a future-ready business.” A happier team is a stronger team, and Collins says loyalty to the company has increased as has productivity, communication and morale. “We’ve also seen a real move towards collaborative working with architects, clients and other professionals, focusing on shared goals rather than the old ‘us versus them’ mentality. That change alone has improved project flow and client experience. “We’ve used adversity – we’ve had our fair share – as an opportunity to learn and grow.”
Morale is high among team members at KingsRock Construction in Hastings
Collins’ tips for a mindset shift
strengthened, productivity has improved, and client feedback is better than ever. All of this is about building a future-ready SME that’s resilient, people-focused and able to adapt to whatever the industry throws our way.” Doing the right thing sounds like an obvious aspiration but making the move with a potential risk to profits is harder to do. So why did the company decide on the shift? “A genuine desire to change the narrative pushed us forward,” Collins says. “We’re not trying to take over the world, just make the world a little better than we found it through the people we meet. “That means giving team members the space to attend sports days and parents’ evenings, supporting mental health through the Lighthouse Charity, and putting family first as one of our core values. We even include partners and children in our events to build genuine connection. “Choosing humanity over habit has become our north star, and it’s changed everything.” (See ‘Collins’ tips for a mindset shift’ boxout.)
● “If your mindset feels stuck, change the channel, just like you would with the TV,” Collins argues. “Take off the tired, worn-down lens and choose to see challenges as opportunities.” ● See failure as an opportunity to learn, which provides lessons to grow. ● Start small, stay consistent, communicate the why, and look after your people along the way. ● Prioritise wellbeing, family and making genuine connections to ensure you have a resilient business. ● Read widely. Collins’ personal
recommendations are Simon Sinek’s Leaders Eat Last and Will Guidara’s Unreasonable Hospitality – neither are construction- specific books but the principles and guidance apply well to the industry, says Collins.
Time is money The old adage is true: time is money. That’s why Cutwood Joinery Ltd in Kilmarnock, Scotland identified time management and timely materials
Victoria Collins of KingsRock Construction
Master Builder 36
www.fmb.org.uk
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