Best Practices in Facility Management: How to Become a Better Facility Manager in 30 Days

By: Hayden Bodiford
August 9, 2024

As a facility manager, you play a crucial role in keeping your organization’s physical environment running smoothly. This 30-day plan will help you sharpen your skills and boost your effectiveness, ensuring your facility operates at peak performance.

Week 1: Laying the Foundation

Days 1-2: Assess your current processes and systems

Begin by evaluating your existing operations. What’s working well? Where are the pain points? Review your documentation, speak with your team, and identify areas for improvement. Don’t overlook any aspect of your facility management – from maintenance schedules to vendor relationships. This comprehensive assessment will form the basis for your improvement plan.

Days 3-4: Set clear, measurable goals

How to Become a Better Facility Manager in 30 Days | GuhrooWith your assessment complete, set specific, achievable goals. Ensure your objectives are SMART: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. For example, aim to reduce energy consumption by 10% within three months, or improve response time to maintenance requests by 25% within six weeks. Prioritize goals that align with your organization’s broader objectives and have the most significant impact on facility operations.

Days 5-7: Develop a comprehensive facility maintenance schedule

Create a detailed calendar that includes daily, weekly, monthly, and annual tasks. Consider using a color-coded system for different types of maintenance (preventive, corrective, predictive). Include all building systems, from HVAC and plumbing to elevators and security systems. Don’t forget to schedule regular inspections and audits to ensure compliance with local regulations and industry standards.

Week 2: Enhancing Communication and Team Management

Days 8-10: Improve communication with staff and stakeholders

Implement regular check-ins with your team and key stakeholders. Consider using a centralized communication platform to streamline information sharing. Develop a communication matrix that outlines who needs what information and when. Implement a system for urgent notifications and create templates for routine communications to ensure consistency and efficiency.

Days 11-13: Implement effective delegation strategiesHow to Become a Better Facility Manager in 30 Days | Guhroo

Learn to trust your team by delegating tasks appropriately. Match team members’ skills with specific responsibilities and provide clear instructions and expectations. Create detailed job descriptions and responsibility matrices. Implement a system for tracking delegated tasks and providing feedback. Remember, effective delegation not only improves efficiency but also contributes to team member development and job satisfaction.

Day 14: Conduct a team-building exercise

Organize a team-building activity to boost morale and improve collaboration. This could be a problem-solving workshop, a volunteer day at a local charity, or a collaborative project to improve a common area in your facility. Use this opportunity to reinforce your team’s shared goals and values, and to identify any underlying issues that may be affecting team performance.

Week 3: Optimizing Operations and Sustainability

Days 15-17: Analyze and improve energy efficiencyHow to Become a Better Facility Manager in 30 Days | Guhroo

Conduct a thorough energy audit of your facility. Look for ways to reduce consumption, such as upgrading to LED lighting, optimizing HVAC systems, or installing occupancy sensors. Consider implementing an energy management system to monitor and control energy use in real-time. Research potential rebates or incentives for energy-efficient upgrades in your area.

Days 18-20: Implement sustainable practices

Sustainability goes beyond energy efficiency. Implement a comprehensive recycling program, including e-waste and hazardous materials. Explore green cleaning solutions that are both effective and environmentally friendly. Consider water conservation measures such as low-flow fixtures or rainwater harvesting systems. Look into sustainable landscaping practices that reduce water use and maintenance needs.

Day 21: Review and update emergency preparedness plans

Ensure your facility is ready for any situation. Review and update your emergency response plans, including evacuation procedures, natural disaster protocols, and business continuity strategies. Conduct a risk assessment to identify potential threats specific to your facility and location. Schedule regular drills and training sessions to ensure all staff are prepared for emergencies.

Week 4: Leveraging Technology and Continuous Improvement

Days 22-24: Explore and implement facility management software

Research and implement a facility management system that fits your needs. Look for features such as work order management, asset tracking, preventive maintenance scheduling, and reporting capabilities. Consider cloud-based solutions that offer mobile access for your team. Plan for adequate training to ensure your team can fully utilize the new system.

Days 25-27: Develop a system for gathering and acting on feedback

Create a simple, user-friendly system for collecting and analyzing feedback from building occupants. This could be through regular surveys, a dedicated email address, or a mobile app. Develop a process for reviewing and acting on this feedback, ensuring that occupants see tangible results from their input. Use this feedback to continually refine your facility management strategies.

Days 28-30: Create a continuous learning and improvement plan

Develop a plan for ongoing professional development. This might include industry certifications, workshops, or staying up-to-date with the latest facility management trends and technologies. Set aside time for regular self-assessment and reflection on your progress. Encourage your team members to pursue professional development opportunities as well, fostering a culture of continuous improvement within your department.

Download a Free Sample Improvement Plan Here

ConclusionHow to Become a Better Facility Manager in 30 Days | Guhroo

By following this 30-day plan, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a more effective and efficient facility manager. Remember, the key to success is consistency and a commitment to continuous improvement. 

As you implement these changes, partner with reliable service providers like 360clean to maintain a pristine environment, allowing you to focus on strategic facility management.

A well-maintained facility not only improves the overall appearance but also enhances productivity, reduces sick days, and extends the life of your building’s assets. Partnering with a reliable commercial cleaning service can significantly contribute to your success as a facility manager.

Regular professional cleaning ensures that your facility remains in top condition, allowing you to focus on other critical aspects of your job. It also demonstrates to employees, clients, and visitors that you take pride in your facility and prioritize their health and comfort.

The result will be a more efficient, sustainable, and well-maintained facility that supports your organization’s goals. Get your free quote now!

Hayden Bodiford

Social Media and PR Manager for 360clean. Based in Charleston, SC

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