The position of Facility Manager is a multi-faceted one by nature. A Facility Manager (FM) should possess skills in organization, leadership, and attention to detail. Not only does it involve technical knowledge, but also excellent communication and interpersonal skills. According to the International Facility Management Association (IFMA), an FM must in their capacity "ensure functionality, comfort, safety and efficiency of the built environment by integrating people, place, process and technology." On top of that, the IFMA lists several skill sets required for the position, including operations and maintenance, sustainability, risk management, communications, real estate, and many others!
In 2021, office spaces and facilities, especially large corporate operations, are facing new questions in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and other environmental concerns. The responsibilities of the FM have never been more important for the functioning of the commercial sector. Here are my top 4 skills that I believe every FM should possess in this new landscape.
1. Technological knowledge and creativity
Every day poses a new challenge, or set of challenges, for the average FM. With so many tasks to juggle, creative solutions are required to keep everything running properly. Technology can be a huge assistance in this area - with the right training and programs. If used incorrectly, it can be a massive hindrance. Combining organizational programs, data softwares, and health related programming takes finesse and an innovative approach. Keeping an open mind about new technologies is important, as is being practical about which softwares and programs are feasible for a particular company and particular team of employees.
2. Intuitive Compassion
Even with new technologies surfacing, the human element should never be neglected. At the end of the day, the FM is responsible for creating a happier and healthier work environment. It’s necessary for every FM to have compassion in their policies and ensure that all employees in a company are secure and supported. Dealing effectively with a variety of people, from members of their own company to clients, stakeholders, and service providers, FMs must understand the value of human interaction and wellbeing. Particularly in today’s climate, caring for individuals’ health, work-from-home, essential working, or unemployment situations is vital. Being compassionate and understanding can go a long way in improving the entire workplace.
3. An Adaptable Mindset
It might be an obvious one, but being adaptable is a key part of being a successful FM. Problems and situations will arise every day, and being able to deal with them quickly and effectively is critical to the role. This must be done in a cool and collected manner. Remember - you have a lot of people looking up to you to organize and maintain a structure. Being flustered or disorganized can make your team and the entire facility feel unstable. According to Peter Ankerstjerne, Chief Strategy Office at Planon, "...as Facility Managers, we must evolve beyond our engineering and workplace administration skills into becoming more people-centric in the way we design and manage our workplace focusing on how to further leveraging organizational productivity and developing company culture."
Being prepared for situations can prevent any mismanagement or pressure. This includes knowing all the technical aspects of the operation from the get-go, and making sure you perform daily rounds to stay up-to-date on everything happening in the office and production facilities.
4. An Analytical Approach
While being level-headed and organized, FMs should also have a more analytical approach to their work. They should be able to understand where waste is occurring and how it can be alleviated. FMs should look at things like spending, contractor performance, and quality of service. They should also be able to identify unnecessary costs and areas of improvement throughout the entire production facility. They should use data to their advantage to help them identify all areas that could be improved.
If you are curious to learn more about the skills required of a Facility Manager, or you’d like to book a consultation for your production facility get in touch at www.linamushcab.com/contact or send me a message on Linkedin.