For over a decade, I have been managing Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), converting family homes into shared living spaces. Alongside this, my company offers a dedicated fire door supply and fitting service. This unique position has allowed me to navigate both the worlds of the office and the trades. From this vantage point, I’ve noticed a subtle but persistent gap in understanding between the two—a gap that sometimes leads to misunderstandings or even a perception of disdain.

When I refer to the “office worker,” I’m thinking of those whose work primarily involves a desk, often labelled as the ‘laptop class.’ Their roles typically involve tasks like administration, management, or information handling, filled with Zoom calls, meetings, and emails. In contrast, the “tradesman” represents those engaged in skilled manual labour—carpenters, electricians, plumbers, roofers—each bringing a specialized skill set and a commitment to physical work.

This article shares my reflections and observations, hoping to encourage greater appreciation and understanding between these two essential parts of our economy.

Misunderstanding the Nature of Work

“So, what time will they work until?”

Office workers, accustomed to set hours and structured routines, often project these expectations onto tradesmen, leading to frequent questions about work hours or concerns over slight delays. However, tradespeople operate by a different rhythm. They focus on the day’s tasks and objectives, and when a job is done, it’s done. There is no need to linger until 5 p.m. They are often their own bosses, valuing flexibility and the freedom to decide when a day’s work is complete.

“They’ll paint the doors too, right?”

Another common misconception is assuming that tradespeople possess skills outside their expertise. Just as you wouldn’t expect an accountant to handle SEO, it is unreasonable to assume a carpenter who fits doors will also paint them. Such assumptions can undermine the professionalism of each trade and can lead to compromised quality and safety. It’s important to respect the boundaries and specialization of each craft.

Communication and Respect

Interactions between office workers and tradesmen can sometimes reveal a subtle, unintended tone of patronization. This often comes from a lack of understanding of the complexities and expertise involved in trades. It’s important to recognize that skilled tradespeople are not merely laborers brought in to complete tasks; they are seasoned professionals with extensive knowledge, experience, and expertise in their craft.

The Assumption Gap

There is a common, albeit flawed, assumption that tradespeople might prefer an office job if only they were “more clever” or had different opportunities. This line of thinking overlooks the reality that many in the trades are deeply satisfied with their work, unlike a lot of office workers. Tradesmen value the craftsmanship, the camaraderie with their peers, and the autonomy that comes with being self-employed. Many tradespeople enjoy a balanced lifestyle that allows them to be present for important family moments—a luxury not always afforded to those bound by office schedules. The idea that an office job is inherently better is simply not true for everyone.

Conclusion

The key takeaway is not to place one type of work above another but to recognize the value each brings. Both office workers and tradesmen play essential roles in our society, and their contributions deserve acknowledgment. By appreciating the importance of all kinds of work, we can encourage a culture of mutual respect and understanding.

Every job, whether in an office or on a job site, has a role in building and maintaining our communities. Let’s focus on what each profession offers and work towards a culture where all skills and roles are respected.