Facilities Managers  Finding And Keeping A Job In Facilities Management Consider what a career as a facility manager means in today's market. Skill needs vary from one building to the next, but most jobs need a broad base of CORE skills. Today's facility manager: Understands the company's core business function and corporate mission statement. Manages to the company's bottom line, and is cost-conscious in each decision. "Cost-conscious" means considering big picture items - saving pennies isn't good if it costs you dollars in lost customers. Has excellent customer service skills and responsiveness. It's a balancing act to serve customers and protect the bottom line. Has a mix of professional training and both practical and field experience, as well as project management skills. These things help manage priorities and make good decisions. Is a flexible self-starter, and proactive enough to meet changing technology and customer requirements. Keeps learning. Making a real commitment to the industry, through courses, continuing education, degrees, or professional designations can help a facility manager understand industry trends. Finally, seek detailed knowledge in one or two foundation areas. Keep absolutely current in them. Maintain a good working knowledge of all areas of the building. Learn the key points, the bottlenecks, and the right questions to ask. Most important, learn who the RIGHT PEOPLE are to ask those questions. They might be department heads, MIS folks, professional acquaintances or vendors. Build your own personal "information network" and you'll be a valuable force in any company.