HR managers in FM must invest in tech to maintain competitive advantage, according to caseflowhr
Stressed HR managers in the FM sector should consider automating employee relations (ER) case management to free up their time, according to HR tech start-up, caseflowhr. During the global COVID-19 pandemic, and with Brexit making itself felt, organisations in the facilities management sector have been tested by combinations of building shut-downs and increased hygiene regimens for those which remain in use. Increased demand for cleaning, security and other vital services has been coupled with the challenge of supporting those working from home.
Alongside upskilling in the fields of infection control, PPE, ventilation, and pandemic-related business continuity planning, HR professionals have been called upon to support their colleagues across facilities management in advising on workplace culture, as well as redesigning spaces to allow for social distancing. With ongoing consolidation in the industry, including merger and acquisition activity for several big players, HR professionals in facilities management will have plenty to keep them busy in 2021. Although headcount was up in the latter part of 2021, many facilities managers fear reductions going forward.
Co-founder and Managing Director of caseflowhr, Greg Hartigan, comments: “In addition to redesigning workplaces for new utilisation patterns, managing sickness absence and referrals to occupational health, there are wider workplace culture concerns including presenteeism, a lack of morale and decreased productivity. Failing to fully prepare the HR back-office for these could cause significant long-term damage to employer relationships with their employees.”
He continues: “The workplace landscape has changed forever, and the tools which HR professionals in the facilities management sector use to manage it must change too. The HR profession must focus on building a supportive culture of resilience and employee empowerment. This is how organisations support their people, maintain competitive advantage, and ensure efficient service delivery.”
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