A STUDY OF GENERATION Z FACILITIES MANAGEMENT TERTIARY STUDENTS AND FUTURE OF WORK: ATTRACTING YOUNG TALENTS INTO FACILITIES MANAGEMENT

Abstract

Facilities Management (FM) integrates people, place, and processes within the built environment to enhance the quality of life and boost core business productivity. In today’s context, various megatrends such as the COVID-19 pandemic and workforce challenges, has reshaped the work landscape, emphasizing the importance of understanding the future of work (Building and Construction Authority, 2022a). It is a topic that explores upcoming shifts in work patterns to aid organisations in proactive preparation for the evolving workplace.

The purpose of the study is to identify strategies for attracting and retaining young talents in the Singapore’s FM industry. The objectives are to (1) investigate expectations of Generation Z (Gen Z) FM tertiary students regarding their future career, (2) understand Gen Zs’ FM tertiary students’ views of the FM industry and (3) provide recommendations for attracting young talents into the FM industry.

A survey was conducted among Gen Z tertiary students, who are currently enrolled in the FM courses, to explore their expectations and perspectives regarding the FM field. Additionally, interviews were held with FM professionals to get deeper insights on their viewpoints regarding the significance and recommendations for attracting more young talent to the FM industry. The survey responses uncovered differing expectations among FM tertiary students, highlighting the significance of flexibility in work arrangements (FWA) for FM-polytechnic students and the primary emphasis on salary for FM-university students. Diverse perspectives between the two tertiary levels were also revealed, with no FM-polytechnic students considering professional skills a requirement in the FM industry, while 48% of FM-university students regarded it as necessary.