The Top 5 Skills Every Head of Workplace Needs to Succeed
“The Head of Workplace role is a highly demanding position that requires a diverse set of skills to succeed. From building relationships with vendors to managing budgets and solving complex problems, a Head of Workplace must be well-equipped to handle the daily challenges of running an efficient and thoughtful workplace. ”
Introduction
The Head of Workplace is a crucial role in today's modern office environment. As the workplace continues to evolve, the responsibilities of this position have expanded beyond traditional facilities management to encompass a more holistic approach to creating a positive employee experience. To succeed in this demanding role, a Head of Workplace must possess a unique combination of skills that enable them to navigate the complexities of the modern workplace.
1. Customer-Oriented Mindset
A customer-oriented mindset is essential for a Head of Workplace. By focusing on hospitality and the human element in every decision, a Head of Workplace can ensure an exceptional employee and visitor experience. As Flash Coughlin, Head of Workplace for WOX, explains, "Keeping a customer service mentality allows us to build and operate spaces that not only address what our employees need on a day-to-day basis but how they experience their work day-to-day as well."
2. Effective Communication
With so many moving parts in the workplace, from operations and maintenance to events and vendors, effective communication is crucial. A Head of Workplace must keep everyone in the organization fully informed about upcoming changes and activities in the office space. Open communication creates visibility across teams, allowing for flexibility and proactive problem-solving.
3. Sense of Urgency
The fast-paced nature of the modern workplace demands a Head of Workplace who can face challenges head-on and problem-solve quickly. The ability to prioritize and make confident decisions is critical to minimizing the impact of daily "fires" and preventing larger issues from arising. As Flash Coughlin notes, "Solving problems quickly, in the proper order, is critical to my success."
4. Ownership Mindset
A sense of ownership is vital for a Head of Workplace. This goes beyond simply being held accountable; it's about taking pride in one's work and the environment they help create. Fostering a sense of ownership among team members encourages genuine hospitality, proactive problem-solving, and continuous improvement.
5. Trustworthiness
Ultimately, a Head of Workplace must earn the trust of their leadership and employees to successfully craft a workplace that works better. By embodying the skills mentioned above, a Head of Workplace can build trust and create a happy and successful workplace team.
Conclusion
The role of Head of Workplace has evolved to encompass a wide range of responsibilities that require a diverse skill set. By focusing on customer service, effective communication, urgency, ownership, and trustworthiness, a Head of Workplace can create a thriving and efficient workplace that prioritizes the employee experience. As the workplace continues to change, these skills will remain essential for success in this demanding and rewarding role.
