These are tough times for many Latinos, especially those in the construction industry. A report today in the Miami Herald says that up to 21,000 construction jobs have been lost since 2006 in South Florida. Pew Hispanic Research puts the national number up around 250,000.

If you employ Latino labor, now is the time to solidify your labor and leadership base. You are in the best position right now to set new systems and training processes without a significant backlash. This is true for two reasons:

1. It is simply easier to get change implemented when people NEED to keep their jobs. Back in the mid 2000's Latino laborers knew they could easily get a job somewhere else. This is no longer the case.

2. People are not as busy, so they have more time to devote to important training. The most important things Latinos must learn well are English, Computer Skills and Communication Skills if they aspire to leadership.

Don't abuse the situation, use the situation. Use this time when you will fully have their attention to make any necessary changes in processes, responsibilities, etc. Also, make sure to use this down time to do any significant training that perhaps you (or they) didn't have time to do in the "boom" times. The market will come back again, the question is, "Will you come back with it stronger than you were before?" You will if you follow today's advice.
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posted by Ricardo González on July 3, 2008.

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