There has never been a better time to work in facilities management. Whether you focus on hard FM or soft FM, work in-house or within an outsourced consultancy, the industry and the importance of the facilities management department are growing.
This growth has created more opportunities, but also more competition in the jobs market. Whilst FM qualifications and experience will always be essential, soft skills are increasingly becoming a key factor in the recruitment process. Tamara Barnard, Associate Director at Build Recruitment, highlights five soft skills to help you progress your career.
- Customer Service – The ability to listen to your clients’ needs and find proactive solutions whilst delivering outstanding customer service is essential. This isn’t just for consultancies, our clients with in-house teams demand a 5-star service. Actively seek and welcome feedback that will help you deliver a client-focused service and ensure harmony within your organisation.
- Organisation – Whether you are responsible for catering, security, cleaning, maintenance, or health & safety, keeping the plates spinning ensures that each area runs smoothly. Multi-tasking, prioritisation and organisation skills are essential in any successful facilities manager.
- Knowledge – Whilst understanding FM inside out is key, you should showcase a wider understanding of the industry, personality and culture in which your contract or building resides. Working in partnership with the organisation and understanding their challenges and objectives will ensure operational success.
- People Management – Strong people management is about understanding what motivates your team and balancing a common standard of excellence whilst treating everyone as individuals. Leading by example is the best way to get everyone involved in your projects working together to achieve a common goal.
- Relationship Building – We see all of the above attributes in the best facilities managers, but it is the ability to build rapport with stakeholders at all levels across the organisation that can make all the difference. Approaching situations with respect, empathy and a clear focus on solutions will not only ensure you add value, but will enable business success.
Source: Build Recruitement
Build Recruitment provides specialist recruitment services to the built environment, with contract and permanent teams dedicated to all areas of the Facilities Management industry.