Here's how you can smoothly transition your role as a facility manager in late career.

As a seasoned facility manager approaching the later stages of your career, you may be contemplating a smooth transition towards retirement or a less demanding role. Facility Management (FM) is a multifaceted discipline that requires overseeing the physical infrastructure of a building or estate, ensuring that it meets the needs of its occupants and operates efficiently. With years of experience under your belt, transitioning can be a strategic process that benefits both you and your organization. Here's how you can navigate this change with grace and foresight.

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1 Assess Goals

To begin your transition, reflect on your career goals and how they align with your current life stage. Consider what you still want to achieve in FM and how it fits with your retirement plans. Perhaps you aim to consult, work part-time, or mentor younger professionals. By setting clear objectives, you can tailor your transition plan to suit your aspirations, ensuring a fulfilling shift in your professional life. Communicate these goals with your employer to explore opportunities that can accommodate your changing needs.

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Lawrence Mokaya

Risk and compliance specialist,QHSE Coordinator,HSE Supervisor ,EHS Specialist and Loss and Prevention Executive.
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Reflect on your current skill set and what aspects of facility management you enjoy the most. Identify areas where you may want to gain more expertise or explore new interests.

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Loray Daws

WAREHOUSE, DC SUPPLY CHAIN HEADACHES. I will help cut through issues. Warehouse/DC Design, Employee productivity, Customer Service. Training.
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WOW - when retiring and having decided to do some fishing, thoughts of "transition" is the last on any persons mind. In fact we should rather have the topic allocated in time/age frame i.e. 40's or 50's etc. What further goals would one have etc.

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2 Knowledge Transfer

One of the most valuable contributions you can make during your transition is passing on your wealth of knowledge. Start by identifying the core skills and information crucial to FM that your successors will need. Create a structured knowledge transfer plan that includes training sessions, documentation, and hands-on shadowing. This process not only secures the future of FM operations in your absence but also cements your legacy as a leader who prepared the next generation for success.

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Lawrence Mokaya

Risk and compliance specialist,QHSE Coordinator,HSE Supervisor ,EHS Specialist and Loss and Prevention Executive.
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Research various career paths that align with your skills and interests. Consider roles such as consultant, project manager, trainer, or even transitioning to related fields like sustainability or real estate management.

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3 Update Skills

Even late in your career, staying updated with the latest FM trends and technologies is beneficial. Engage in lifelong learning by attending workshops, webinars, or courses that focus on emerging FM practices. This keeps you relevant and valuable, making the transition smoother as you bring fresh insights to your role or consultancy. It also demonstrates to employers and colleagues your commitment to the profession, regardless of your stage in the career lifecycle.

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Lawrence Mokaya

Risk and compliance specialist,QHSE Coordinator,HSE Supervisor ,EHS Specialist and Loss and Prevention Executive.
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Tailor your resume to highlight your relevant experience and skills. Ensure your LinkedIn profile is up-to-date and showcases your expertise in facility management and any additional skills or certifications you have acquired.

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4 Network Expansion

Expanding your professional network is crucial during this transition phase. Connect with peers, industry associations, and younger professionals in FM. Networking can open doors to new opportunities, such as advisory roles or part-time positions that fit your desired pace. It also allows you to stay in touch with the industry after you've stepped back from full-time work, keeping you informed and engaged with the FM community.

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Lawrence Mokaya

Risk and compliance specialist,QHSE Coordinator,HSE Supervisor ,EHS Specialist and Loss and Prevention Executive.
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Utilize your professional network to explore opportunities and gather information about different career paths. Attend industry events, join professional associations, and connect with colleagues who can provide guidance and potential job leads.

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5 Succession Planning

A well-thought-out succession plan is key to a seamless transition. Work with your organization to identify potential successors and involve them in strategic planning and decision-making processes. This empowers them to take on more responsibility gradually while you provide guidance and oversight. A smooth succession ensures continuity in FM operations and gives you peace of mind that the facilities are in capable hands.

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6 Personal Adjustment

Finally, prepare for the personal adjustments that come with changing your work role. This might involve redefining your sense of purpose or finding new hobbies and interests outside of FM. Allow yourself time to adapt to a different routine and workload. Embrace this period as an opportunity for personal growth and a chance to explore other facets of life that may have taken a backseat during your career.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Here's how you can smoothly transition your role as a facility manager in late career.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Assess Goals

2 Knowledge Transfer

3 Update Skills

4 Network Expansion

5 Succession Planning

6 Personal Adjustment

7 Here’s what else to consider

Facility Management (FM)

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Here's how you can smoothly transition your role as a facility manager in late career.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Assess Goals

2 Knowledge Transfer

3 Update Skills

4 Network Expansion

5 Succession Planning

6 Personal Adjustment

7 Here’s what else to consider

Facility Management (FM)

Rate this article

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