by Brianna Crandall — June 27, 2011—New survey results from Staples Advantage, the business-to-business division of Staples, Inc., suggest that more than 70 percent of office workers recognize that the role of facilities managers in the workplace is changing and becoming increasingly strategic to the business. The report notes that FMs are often viewed as “office heroes” as well as strategic decision makers.
Misconceptions about FMs seem to be dissipating, with more than 80 percent of respondents accurately identifying the role’s management responsibilities and a majority recognizing its strategic importance, with FM professionals often serving as an organization’s sustainability champion. In addition, the Staples Advantage survey suggests the U.S. workforce is aware of, and appreciates, the FMs that not only keep businesses going “as usual,” but frequently go above and beyond the call of duty.
The survey, which polled U.S. office workers at businesses of all sizes, uncovered how many FMs personally contribute to the overall welfare of not only the physical building, but also the occupants. In fact, 75 percent of respondents said a facilities manager has “saved the day” for them. Additionally, about 20 percent of respondents revealed that their FM had performed a random act of kindness.
Today’s FM must interact with a wide range of stakeholders in order to successfully implement strategic initiatives and manage the day-to-day activities of their job. An understanding of the unique skills required of a facilities manager was echoed by survey respondents: more than 80 percent realized FMs need to have knowledge of financial and operational budgets; over 60 percent noted that FMs need environmental and health and safety knowledge, and that the FM’s role has changed from tactical to strategic; and close to 80 percent noted it was very important for FMs to have problem-solving skills.
The facilities manager’s job is complex and multifaceted within any organization, and Staples Advantage offers some quick tips for FMs to continue elevating their role. These include:
- Make the case for sustainability: By implementing a sustainable cleaning program, FMs can make a big difference. Often serving as the environmental champion for their organization, FMs must evaluate the overall health of the facility, review products and equipment, assess current vendors, and implement training programs to educate maintenance staff on green initiatives and best practices.
- Promote building safety: More than 80 percent of survey respondents noted they were very appreciative when building walkways were de-iced and shoveled. FMs understand the importance of general building maintenance and can advance building safety by ensuring the entire facility meets or exceeds OSHA regulations.
- Keep communication open: Continue the ongoing dialogue with key stakeholders to discuss new regulations and the importance of continually reviewing products, equipment and vendors.
- Promote building safety: More than 80 percent of survey respondents noted they were very appreciative when building walkways were de-iced and shoveled. FMs understand the importance of general building maintenance and can advance building safety by ensuring the entire facility meets or exceeds OSHA regulations.
