Danny Clarke's Linkedin Analytics

Last time I posted about speakers for UK Construction Week, the response was incredible — so many of you stepped up with ideas, honesty, and the kind of insight this industry badly needs more of. So, let’s try again. The session? Hard hats & leadership skills – Why construction needs more than just technical training Because let’s face it — we’ve all seen people promoted for being brilliant at their trade… and then left floundering when they’re suddenly expected to manage a team, run meetings, or handle conflict with zero support. This session is all about the soft skills we continue to ignore: — Why do we still undervalue them? — Why aren’t they embedded into apprenticeships? — And how can we build construction teams that actually collaborate, not just coexist? We’ve already got two brilliant voices confirmed: 🔸 Melissa Fazackerley – a real advocate for developing people, not just roles 🔸 Nicola Hodkinson – who knows exactly what leadership in this sector should look like But there’s room for more. If this topic speaks to you — or if you’ve got experience (good or bad) to share — I want to hear from you. Pop me a message, or tag someone below who should be on this panel.

You know what sends a shiver down my spine faster than “we need to talk”? “Quick question…” (Ok, overdramatic and not entirely true but got your attention right.) Because let’s be honest—it’s never quick. It’s never just one question. And it’s definitely not a question you know the answer to without opening six tabs, checking a spreadsheet from 2021, and calling Dave in Finance. “Quick question?” Mate, you’ve just dropped a mini project in my inbox. It’s the workplace equivalent of “can you just…” Can I just? Sure. Can I also rewrite policy, solve world peace and troubleshoot your login issues while I’m at it? Anyway, if you’ve made it this far—thanks for listening to my TED Talk. Now, quick question…

Hotel breakfast. Day 2. You approach the toaster with confidence. You've been here before. You know the game. First go: Bread rolls in, comes out exactly as it went in. Cold. Floppy. Nothing. Second go: You're trying to look relaxed but you’re watching it like a hawk. Then boom— Full cremation. It’s like it skipped “golden brown” and went straight to “held it up to the sun god for sacrifice.” And of course, now you’re committed to putting it on your plate and acting like that’s how you wanted it. “Love a bit of crunch…” (no you don’t). Is it just me, or is the hotel toaster the most unpredictable part of any breakfast buffet? That, and trying to guess whether the sausages are pork, veggie, or mystery.

​I recently had the pleasure of joining LaVern Brown on the Blog the Builder podcast, where we delved into some of the most pressing issues facing the construction industry today. We explored topics like bridging critical skills gaps, enhancing diversity and inclusion, supporting neurodivergent workers, and addressing mental health challenges within the sector.​ Our conversation underscored the importance of creating a more inclusive and supportive environment in construction. By focusing on skills development, fostering inclusivity, and prioritising well-being, we can build a stronger, more resilient industry for the future. ​ If you're interested in these topics and want to hear more about our discussion, you can listen to the full episode here:  https://lnkd.in/eYbCdEC2 A big thank you to LaVern for the insightful conversation and for providing a platform to discuss these crucial issues.

Meetings: The great attention span test of our time Ever feel like video calls are less about collaboration and more about resisting the urge to check your phone, make a snack, or see what's trending on social media? You're not alone. A significant 76% of employees admit they're more distracted during video calls compared to in-person meetings. This number jumps to 84% among 18-34-year-olds. So, why the distraction? The survey reveals that 72% of employees turn off their cameras to hide activities like:​ ☎️ Checking their phones (65%)​ 🗣️ Chatting with someone else (47%)​ 📲 Browsing social media (44%)​ 🥙 Preparing food or drinks (42%)​ 💤 Even napping (20%)​ These habits have also impacted in-person meeting etiquette, with 78% of employees believing it has worsened since the pandemic. People are more likely to look at their phones (64%) and pay less attention (45%) during meetings.​ So, what's the takeaway? Perhaps it's time to rethink our approach to meetings. Whether virtual or in-person, creating engaging, concise, and interactive sessions might just be the key to keeping everyone's attention where it belongs. Maybe we need to review what meetings we have, who attends and what is covered in them.

This year, we’re introducing a brand-new category in the Top 100 Most Influential Women in Construction Awards—because it’s time to shine a light on the educators, trainers, and mentors shaping the future of our industry. New for 2025: Most Influential Educator in Construction From colleges to on-site trainers, industry mentors to apprenticeship leaders, this award is for the people who are not just teaching skills but shaping careers, supporting new entrants, and upskilling the workforce we already have. Because let’s be honest—construction doesn’t move forward without the people who teach it. Whether it’s: 🔹 Delivering technical skills training 🔹 Mentoring and developing future leaders 🔹 Helping businesses upskill their workforce 🔹 Driving innovation and best practice in education This award is about recognising those who don’t just educate—but inspire, support, and transform careers. Who deserves the spotlight this year? If you know someone making a real impact in construction education, nominate them today. Nominate here: https://lnkd.in/edgUyZEG #Top100WIC

Ok, so… being criticised? Not always a fun experience. Sometimes it lands like constructive feedback. Other times… it feels like a full-on slap in the face (verbally, but still). But here’s the thing — over the years, I’ve found that some of the best personal and professional growth has come from the people who didn’t agree with me. Not always comfortably. But often usefully. So here are my top tips for handling criticism that doesn’t make you want to launch your laptop out the window: 💭 Pause before reacting. It’s tempting to go full defensive mode — but try not to. 🧠 Ask what you can learn from it. Even if it’s not delivered well, is there something in there? 🧍‍♂️ Consider the source. Is it someone you trust or respect? Their words might carry weight. 🚩 If it’s personal, mean-spirited or just plain rude — that’s on them, not you. Move on. Quickly. Not everyone’s going to agree with you. And that’s okay. But if we only ever listened to the people who tell us what we want to hear… well, we’d miss a lot. Anyone else had criticism that stung at the time, but actually helped in the long run? Or better yet, one that was so bizarre it’s now just a great story?

The one day a year when every email, announcement, and new “initiative” is met with suspicion. You start the day with coffee and end it questioning reality. 🧐 Is there a company really trialling 3am starts for “peak productivity”? 👷‍♂️ Has someone genuinely launched a zero-noise hammer? 🦺 Branded suit jackets for senior leadership.? And my personal favourite — meeting-free Mondays (still holding out hope that one wasn’t a joke). To be fair, some of the attempts were… ambitious. If your April Fools’ joke needs a 3-slide explainer and a follow-up Teams call, maybe it’s not the one. So go on then — anyone fall for anything yesterday? Or better yet, manage to prank someone and still have a job today?

Bagels. The bread item that doubles as a medieval heat trap. Why is it that you can lightly toast a slice of bread and pick it up like a civilised human… But a bagel? Touch a toasted bagel and it’s like reaching directly into the surface of the sun. Not warm. Not toasty. Molten. Lava. Disc. And yet the outside gives you no warning. It looks perfectly innocent. You think, “I’ll just grab it and butter it quickly.” Next thing you know, you’ve got third-degree burns and a bagel stuck to your palm. I don’t know what bagels are made of (industrial insulation?), but I’m convinced they absorb heat purely out of spite. So yes — if you’ve ever needed to test your pain tolerance at 7:30am… Toasted bagel. No tongs. Let’s see what you’re made of.

We’re back with another brilliant Top 100 Legacy event, and this time it’s all about something we could all use a little more of… confidence. Whether you're new in your role or leading from the front, this workshop is designed to give you practical, real-world tools to communicate more confidently—with presence, purpose, and clarity. Highlights include: Adrianne Carter, aka The Face Whisperer, taking us through the science and power of body language A panel discussion on growing in confidence, with voices from across the industry including Molly, Sara and the one and only Ele George. The chance to connect with like-minded people, and leave with ideas you can use straight away And, in true Top 100 spirit, we’re thrilled to be running this event in collaboration with Birmingham Smart Works—a charity doing incredible work to support unemployed women back into the workplace through coaching and interview clothing. If you can, please bring along any workwear, shoes or bags you no longer need—your donation could make a huge difference to someone’s future. Whether you're looking to boost your confidence, improve your communication, or just want to be in a room full of great people doing great things—this is your moment. 10th April 2025. Reserve your spot now: https://lnkd.in/eVn8z3ih See you there!

This year’s Easter Bank Holiday really tested me… It’s so late in the year I very nearly wrapped the Easter eggs in actual Christmas paper. It was within reach. I was tired. No one would’ve known. I’ve seen hot cross buns next to BBQ coals in the supermarket. The daffodils are on their second wind. And I'm fairly sure someone wished me a happy Easter while booking a summer holiday. That said — a four-day weekend is a four-day weekend. So whether you're eating chocolate for breakfast, hiding eggs for children (or adults, no judgement), or just using the time to not open your laptop — enjoy it. And if you’ve accidentally bought yourself an extra egg “just in case”… Same.

We’re heading back to where it all began… and you won’t want to miss it! 📍 Kimpton Clocktower, Manchester 📅 Thursday, 18th September 2025 The Top 100 Most Influential Women in Construction Awards are returning to Manchester—the Northern Powerhouse where this all started a few years ago. And this year? Bigger, better, and with more industry support than ever. With so many incredible organisations already backing the event, we’re expecting a huge turnout—so if you want to be part of the celebrations, get the date in your diary early. 🎉 Join us in celebrating the incredible women shaping our industry. 🤝 Network with leading organisations and industry champions. 🏆 Be part of a night that truly makes a difference. As with previous years, if you’re shortlisted, or if your nomination results in someone being shortlisted, you’ll receive a complimentary ticket to the event. Whilst CITB are managing nominations and award activities, the night itself is being delivered by Clare Yelland (nee Friel) and her team, so for event logistics, sponsorship, and how to get involved, they’re the ones to speak to. Hope to see you there! Not nominated yet? Nominate here: https://lnkd.in/edgUyZEG #SaveTheDate #Top100WomenInConstruction #Manchester2025 #Top100WIC

L Lynch Plant Hire & Haulage are delivering fully funded Plant training at HMP Highpoint thanks to Skills Bootcamp funding — and there’s a real opportunity here for employers to get involved. Before you scroll on thinking “great, but we’re not near Highpoint” — you don’t have to be. They bring in candidates from across the country, train them, and then they return to their home regions ready to work. And here’s the bit that might surprise you… Employers are in the driving seat: 🛠 You help shape the candidate profile 🛠 You give a timeline for when you need people trained by 🛠 You get people who want to work, have new skills, and are ready for a fresh start Want to find out more and ask questions? There’s a webinar on Wednesday 23 April, 12–1pm. 🔗 Join here: https://lnkd.in/eX8AHQmC If you’re a plant employer (or know one), this is worth a look. It's one of those things that’s good for business and good for people. Drop my colleague Ceri RushJones a message if you want more info — and please do share with anyone who might be up for getting involved.

It’s easy to talk about “the team” like it’s one big, smooth-operating machine. But really? Teams are just people. People with strengths and quirks. People who overthink emails. People who remember birthdays, refill the kettle, and quietly get stuff done. People who carry the energy when others are flagging, and people who need carrying sometimes too. Behind every “high-performing team” is a group of individuals showing up, trying their best, learning as they go, and occasionally sending “quick question” emails that are anything but quick. So today’s reminder: if your team’s doing great work—it’s because individuals are choosing to show up and make it work. And that’s worth recognising. Because without the people? It’s not a team. It’s just a fancy org chart.

Funny thing about critics… They’ll scrutinise your work, pick apart your words, and occasionally deliver feedback that feels like it’s been dipped in sarcasm and fired out of a cannon. And yet — some of my biggest lightbulb moments have come from the people who challenged me the most. Not always comfortably. Not always gently. But it made me stop. Rethink. Do better. Sometimes, your biggest critics are actually holding up a mirror — and if you can get past the delivery, there’s usually something worth looking at. So no, you don’t have to agree with everything. But listen? Reflect? Learn? That part’s on us. Because growth rarely comes wrapped in compliments. Anyone else had a moment where a bit of criticism actually turned out to be the thing that moved you forward?

It’s Mother’s Day—so brace yourself for the heartfelt tributes, family brunch photos, and supermarket flowers being frantically handed over like peace offerings. But here’s the thing: not all mums look the same. Some are biological mums. Some are step-mums, adopted mums, or just someone who stepped in when it really mattered. Some are “mum friends” at work who remind you to eat lunch and bring paracetamol when you look rough. And some are just quietly doing it all without ever expecting a thank you. There’s no one way to ‘mum’. No manual. No one-size-fits-all apron. So today’s for the nurturers, the cheerleaders, the worriers, the problem-solvers, and the ones who just somehow hold everything together with a bit of stubbornness and a lot of snacks. I’ve been lucky to know a few amazing mums—and I’m grateful for every single one. (Also, I’ll never underestimate how much effort it takes to smile sweetly while being handed burnt toast and lukewarm tea in bed.) Happy Mother’s Day to those mums out there. However it looks for you.

We’ve got a strong line-up already, but if there’s one thing I’ve learned in this industry, it’s that there’s always room for someone with something powerful to say. At UK Construction Week, we’re running a session titled: “Culture is built at the top – Leadership’s role in Industry change” Because let’s be honest: 🧱 If leaders don’t change, neither will the industry. 🧱 Culture isn’t fixed with pizza Fridays. It starts (and often ends) with leadership. 🧱 Bad leadership doesn’t just frustrate people — it drives them out, blocks diversity, and stalls innovation. We’ll be digging into questions like: ❓ What does modern leadership look like in construction? ❓How do we develop leaders who prioritise inclusion and wellbeing? ❓What kind of leadership behaviours are still holding us back (and why are we putting up with them)? ❓How do we hold people accountable for culture change, not just bottom lines? So — if you’ve got experience, insight, or something to challenge the room with — get in touch. Whether you're a contractor, client, coach, site manager or someone with lived experience — we want to hear from you. Drop me a message if you're interested, or tag someone you think should be on the panel alongside Renee, Sophie and Sam. Let’s make this one count.

Apparently, gyms are the new Friday nights. Gone are the days of sticky floors, questionable music, and a kebab at midnight. Now it’s all protein shakes, PBs, and deadlifts instead of double vodka lemonades. Friday night plans? Not “out-out” — it’s leg day. Not queuing for the bar — waiting for the squat rack. Not hungover on Saturday — fresh, smug, and somehow posting about it before 8am. And honestly? Good for them. Because I went to a gym on a Friday once… …and immediately pulled a muscle putting my hoodie in a locker. To each their own. Some of us unwind with burpees. Some of us unwind with brie. Both are valid. Except the brie, its never a good choice of cheese in my house.