Whether you focus on hard FM or soft FM, work in-house or within an outsourced consultancy, the industry and the responsibilities of the facilities management department are growing.
This growth has created more opportunities, but also more competition in the job market. While FM qualifications and experience will always be essential, it’s the soft skills that are becoming an increasingly key factor in the recruitment process.
We’ve highlighted five soft skills to help progress your career:
Customer Service
Having the ability to actively listen to your client’s needs and provide proactive solutions while delivering exceptional customer service is vital. This is not only true for consultancies, but also for clients who have in-house facility management teams that require a five-star service. It is important to actively seek and welcome feedback that can help you make the right changes to ensure harmony within the organization.
Organisation
Whether you are responsible for H&S, catering, security, cleaning, or maintenance, you need to be able to keep the plates spinning.
Multi-tasking, prioritisation, and organisation skills are essential in any successful Facilities Manager.
Knowledge
Just understanding FM inside-out isn’t enough anymore, you need to showcase an understanding of the industry in which your contract or building is in.
Working in partnership with the organisation and understanding its challenges and objectives will ensure operational success.
People Management
Effective people management requires an understanding of what motivates your team. It’s important to balance a common standard of excellence while treating each team member as an individual. The best way to get everyone working together towards a shared goal is to lead by example.
Relationship Building
We see all of the above attributes in the best Facility Managers, but it’s the ability to build a rapport with stakeholders at all levels 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 be seen as truly enabling success.
If you are looking for a new opportunity within Facilities Management, please contact our team on 02031 764 790 (opt 3).
