Membership of a professional body could make the difference between securing a job and not in one of the fastest growing sectors in Northern Ireland, it was claimed today.
Stephen Welch, chairman for the British Institute of Facilities Management (BIFM) Ireland Region, was speaking as Belfast prepares to host the British Institute of Facilities Management annual all-Ireland conference this month (November 16) highlighting the sector’s potential to share in the £95m UK-wide industry.
“Professional association membership is, without doubt, a prerequisite for this sector so the highlight for many delegates will be the opportunity to network within the profession – networking is the lifeblood of the facilities management sector and probably also for many others,” said Mr Welch.
“It’s an essential activity for in-house facilities professionals who may be the only person in their organisation responsible for FM. It helps them to feel part of a bigger family network and helps to ensure credibility when they bring that business case to the board.
“However, as well as that I know that the BIFM is also fighting our corner, helping to get the FM sector better recognition at both government and senior business leader level. Most importantly, I get professional recognition and the membership grading structure allows me to demonstrate my skills and experience to my peers and my employer.
“But just as great ideas are often generated through a quick chat at a watercooler, rather than in a formal meeting or at a desk, it’s during the breaks of conferences that some of the best discussions happen or when you find out about a new job opportunity.
“And that’s what being a member of a professional association like the BIFM all is about. As a BIFM member, I can engage with my peers through regional events such as the upcoming conference and online through social networks such as Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn as well as national conferences, exhibitions and dinners where I can share experiences across different sectors and regions.”
For more information visit www.bifm.org.uk/ic2012