CHANGING PERCEPTION of A FM

Will the current situation bring about a change in the way FM industry is perceived? Industry veterans believe that more mature clients already recognise that FM adds value to their business. Any change in client perception of FM has to be driven by FM companies; no one else can do it for them.
For many years we have heard the lament that clients buy on price alone. Why should that be? Have they really lost the ability to sell quality? Business development is much more than the simple sales function that many think it is. If an FM company can’t articulate and demonstrate the value it offers, who else will? Several industry associates and organisations are well positioned to lobby government and raise the industry profile, but to do so they need active participation from members at all levels. It is not enough to join a trade association and then hope for miracles.
There will be a significant shift in attitude towards FM soft services. The coming days will see 180 degree change in attitude towards soft FM operations, cleaning in particular. Cleaners will no longer have to be invisible; in fact, having cleaners in full view of employees, visitors and guests, will promote confidence, that the building is being regularly cleaned and sanitised in a thorough and professional way. Cleaning schedules should be highly visible too, not just in bathrooms but in prominent public areas in buildings.  
There is an enormous opportunity for all companies operating in the FM sector to position themselves as true and trusted business partners.
It will be vital for progressive FM companies to understand how the value chain of their customers work and where they can support their clients to comply with the evermore complex government regulations and guidelines and how they can operate in the most efficient manner. This is not only to stay competitive in the market, but also to reassure all of their stakeholders that they are a competent, professional and socially responsible organisation.