The need to contain the COVID-19 pandemic globally has necessitated the need for people to work from home. Nigeria has also borrowed a leaf from some of the best practices recommended by the United Nations, compelling both the state and federal governments to implement total or partial lock down.
This has presented a new way of life to most employees and a new structure to organisations. One thing is however certain: post-COVID-19, working will never remain the same, organisations will need to review and re-evaluate its structure, and of course, Facilities Management professionals – who are the anchor of the people, organisation and the work and living space need to be mentally and intellectually prepared for what is to come.
Leveraging the 11 competencies identified by the International Facility Management Association (IFMA), we have selected four good reads to prepare you for the coming days post-COVID-19.
- Facility Design and Management Handbook – Eric Teicholz
Want to create the right place for people to live, work and play post-COVID-19? You should lay your hand on this book today. Aside from featuring case studies from around the world, this book dived deep into how these case studies were implemented in the most cost-effective, sustainable manner. It highlights tools for better space and asset allocation and discusses how improve forecasting accuracy, online integration and software resources into your facility.
- Facilities Management: Managing Maintenance for Buildings and Facilities – Joel Levitt
Whether you are new to the role of an FM or you are an experienced veteran, there are useful features in this book. A set of ready-to-use forms for assessment as well as a plethora of practical resources. It covers everything from risk management to legal contracts as well as safety regulations and energy.
- 10 Skills for Effective Business Communication: Practical Strategies from the World’s Greatest Leaders – Jessica Higgins
Communication tops the list of important soft skills for leaders. Facilities Management professionals usually must lead above, across and below – and communication plays a significant role in this position.
This book applies effective strategies from the world’s most successful professionals to common workplace scenarios with equal parts research and actionable advice.
- Leading the Unleadable: How to Manage Mavericks, Cynics, Divas, and Other Difficult People – Alan Willett
What sets great FM professionals apart is how they build consensus with their team, customers, value chain partners and the community where they operate. FMs with great soft skills can work with anyone. That’s because they can easily adapt their leadership style to bring out the best in everyone, no matter how challenging the person may be. If you find that some personality types can easily push your buttons or that tense confrontations with difficult employees shake your confidence, this book can help.
