How to Make an Impact When Job Hunting – A Guide for Property and Facilities Managers

We have experienced an upturn in job applications due to the beginning of the New Year, an influx of overseas candidates and company restructuring.?

Despite this, the unemployment rate is still low, and candidates might believe they are still in the driving seat.? However, we are finding times are shifting, with employers elevating their standards around hires and tying it into their 5-year business plans. ?Hiring Managers are waiting to advance with an appointment compared to Covid when hiring decisions were more immediate as resources were stretched thinly.

The mindset shift in hiring means that if you are seeking a new role, first impressions of how you present your resume and approach your interview will help you stand out from the increased applications and the new vigour around the hiring process.

Here is our handy guide for Property and Facilities Managers to help maximise your chances of success!

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?Craft an Exceptional Resume:?

Customisation: Tailor your resume for each application. Highlight skills and experiences that directly relate to the specific job description. Make sure the type of sector or assets managed are clearly highlighted.

Quantify Achievements: Instead of just listing duties, quantify your accomplishments with specific numbers or percentages. For example, "Reduced maintenance costs by 15% through implementation of strategic initiatives." Or “Helped reduce rental arrears and increased ROI by 20%”

Keywords: Incorporate industry-specific keywords and phrases relevant to property and facilities management to ensure your resume passes through applicant tracking systems (ATS).?

Professional Summary: Include a brief professional summary at the beginning of your resume that showcases your key qualifications and career objectives.

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Nail the Interview:

Mock Interviews: Practice common interview questions with a friend, family member, or career coach. Solicit feedback to refine your responses and delivery.

STAR Technique: Structure your answers using the Situation, Task, Action, Result (STAR) technique to provide clear and concise examples of your skills and accomplishments.

Research: Thoroughly research the company, its projects, clients, and competitors. Demonstrate your knowledge and enthusiasm for the organisation during the interview.

Role Play: Anticipate potential challenges or objections and prepare persuasive responses. Role-play different scenarios to enhance your confidence and adaptability.?

Follow-Up: Send personalised thank-you notes or emails to interviewers within 24-48 hours of the interview. Express gratitude for the opportunity and reiterate your interest in the position.

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General Job Search Strategies:

Networking Events: Attend industry conferences, seminars, and networking events to connect with professionals in the field. Build relationships and seek mentorship opportunities.? The Property Council of Australia, Facility Management Association of Australia and Corenet Global could be options for you to consider.

Informational Interviews: Conduct informational interviews with professionals currently working in property and facilities management roles. Gain insights into the industry, company culture, career paths, and source information about the portfolio or client.

Online Presence: Enhance your LinkedIn profile with a professional photo, compelling headline, and detailed summary. Share relevant articles, projects, and achievements to demonstrate your expertise and passion for the property industry.

Volunteer Work: Gain practical experience and expand your network by volunteering for relevant projects or initiatives within the property and facilities management sector.

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By implementing these comprehensive strategies, candidates can elevate their profiles, differentiate themselves from the competition, and secure rewarding opportunities in the dynamic property and facilities management sector. Remember, persistence, preparation, and professionalism are crucial to success when searching for your dream opening. ?Good luck!