New Member, New Beginning

[MattJ92]

Hi all.

Firstly would like to introduce myself, I’m Matt 34 from Hertfordshire.

New member here, I’m not a builder nor do I have a trade.

I am trying to put myself out there and haven’t got a clue where to start.

After a loss of someone close to me, I was struggling in every aspect of life, had to speak up and talk to someone and get the professional help I urgently needed.

This meant giving up work for 6 months, I feel a million times better than I was previously.

I can no longer sit behind a desk and looking for something totally new.

Just wondered if anybody would have any opportunities, I understand I have no knowledge if willing to learn.

I drive, I’m reliable, punctual and willing to graft. Willing to travel absolutely anywhere. Would like to get back into the groove of things and start fresh.

Sorry for the long story but just want to be straight with everybody.

Thanks for taking the time to read my post.

Cheers all.

Matt

 

[23vc]

Finding an experienced/older established builder through family or friends connections who’s willing to take on someone for ad hoc labouring, material runs, maybe part time etc, could be one route in…

 

[MattJ92]

Morning.

Thanks for the reply.

Unfortunately none of my family have a trade, they’re office workers and sit behind a desk all day which is what I’m trying to swerve getting back into.

Pushed most people away over the last 6 months but will try and ask around as well.

Appreciate the advice thanks

 

[Koolpc]

Himmy? Is that you? Lol

 

[MattJ92]

Not a clue what you’re talking about mate?

 

[Deluks]

What are your skills, what trade takes your fancy? Hobbies?
Do you like wiring things up, do you like working outside (in all weathers), do you find painting relaxing, are you ok being at height. Etc etc.

 

[MattJ92]

Good afternoon,

I will be totally transparent, I have never done any hands on role within construction apart from the odd week here and there labouring for a scaffolding firm.

I’m willing to try any trade at all, I’m a very quick learner, show me something once in detail and will pick it up near enough straight away, I’m tenacious and won’t let anything beat me, that can have its pros and also its cons.

I’m a total blank canvas, so haven’t got any bad habits doing things as such, I know this can be a downfall to most but I’m willing to put everything into it.

Working outside in all types of weather doesn’t bother me as I like fishing and camping, have family in north Sweden and go skiing when I visit (haven’t been for the past 2 years)

I’m an avid West Ham fan, like to take my dog out when I can. Socialise when possible.

Hope this clears a few things up.

Cheers.

Matt

 

[pete01]

If I was in your position I'd quite fancy plastering, you can make some decent dosh.

Maybe find someone local and see if you can do a few days for free and be mega helpful they might keep ya.

 

[Deluks]

Approaching tradesmen in person can be a good way to introduce yourself.
Sending an email or CV will likely see you get ignored, and phoning up will see you fobbed off. Putting the work in to introduce yourself shows willing, and they can see immediately that you aren't a nutter (hopefully).

Go for a walk or drive, preferably in an affluent area, and look for signs of building work taking place. Skips, portaloos, scaffolding.
If you want to work outside, listen out for the sound of chainsaws and leaf blowers.
Introduce yourself politely and say you are keen, reliable, and looking to make yourself useful, I know people who have been taken on in this way.
Be clear on hours and money (it won't be much initially), before you start. I also know of people who have offered to be a labourer and then not been paid for it, or paid less than agreed.

The question you might get asked isn't, "have you got any experience" with this in mind, start doing odd jobs for family and friends now, for free if you have to.
Then at least you can say "oh I do a bit of painting" (or gardening, or putting up shelves or whatever)

Get some lengths of wood and practice handsawing them accurately. Get a small battery drill and practice drilling and screwing in different materials, so you can get used to what bits to use and what the torque is for.
Get hold of a petrol garden tool and practice starting it up.
Get the Collins complete DIY manual, and read through and understand whatever sections take your fancy.

By the time you've done all of this you might just decide to work for yourself!

 

[MattJ92]

If I was in your position I'd quite fancy plastering, you can make some decent dosh.

Maybe find someone local and see if you can do a few days for free and be mega helpful they might keep ya.

Yeah I have seen a few plasters on social media. It’s not about the money. Just want to get myself working again so yeah offering for free for a few days and knocking my pipe out may work.

Thanks for the reply mate