Do building occupants know what you do? Do they realize you are more than just the person to call when the building is too hot or cold?
Based on a panel we held at NFMT Baltimore with our Facility Influencers earlier this year, I'm guessing they don't. This is unfortunate since we all know the impact facilities personnel can have on the facility and its occupants. Decarbonization, water conservation, infection prevention, occupant safety — these are just a few of the litany of responsibilities for facility executives.
Our panel shared strategies that facility executives and their departments can implement to set the record straight. Start with a mission statement. This simple phrase sums up your role in the company. Chances are your organization already has one that you can mimic to correlate from a facility angle. For example, if a K-12 school has a mission of “Empowering students to reach their full potential,” then start yours with something like “Creating safe and healthy facilities that empower our students...” Include the statement on your email signature and letterhead so it’s visible when corresponding with others in the facility.
Also, don't be shy about sharing your efforts. Write up a summary of the differences you and your team are making, whether it's saving energy, improving indoor air quality, diverting waste or other projects. If you aren't a wordsmith, ask for help. Some organizations have a communications department that can help craft your message. Then get the word out via social media or company newsletter. In addition to these everyday announcements, take advantage of special days during the year: World FM Day, Earth Day, or even Safety Awareness month.
These efforts are also great materials for informing future employees about your organization. Use this information to market your department to local high schools, community colleges and job fairs. If your own occupants aren't aware of what facility managers do, you can be sure that the next generation isn’t either.
You can learn more about marketing to new and younger employees at NFMT Remix this October. We have assembled the same Facility Influencer panel to share best practices for filling the staffing pipeline, and the value that ongoing professional development has for training and retaining workers. Learn more and register at www.nfmt.com/remix.
Dan Weltin is the editor-in-chief for the facility market. He has nearly 20 years of experience covering the facility management and commercial cleaning industries.
