Dave,

The explanation and an example is in the article. Take it you didn’t read it?

Construction Recruiting agents use have removed the freelancers ability to self promotion in opportunities.
Most agents operatives have limited knowledge of the construction process. They can read the words on a cv but cannot read the required experience and knowledge needed to attain that cv, these agents are leading the lowballing problem due to the pressure to fill work openings between recruitment companies and their profits. Leading to lowballing.
The quality skill set, knowledge, and experience is dropping off a high cliff , this has to be recognised and stopped. Prime finishes should be the norm.
A computer as yet has never laid a brick.
The construction industry has to open its eyes before it’s too late lowballing for profit reduce quality. Which in turn wins contracts.

Contractors can avoid being lowballed by being aware of the practice in the first place. If you are working through a recruiter make them aware that you want someone to represent you who has your best interests at heart and to NOT mention to a hiring manager or end client that you don’t have any other work in the pipeline or are desperate! If you or the person representing you highlights your skills and experience and the cost savings they will have in hiring you rather than hiring cheap and losing you half way through the project- then you will have a better chance not being lowballed. Offering different packages to align with your rate and their initial priorities is also another way to find a happy medium.