Your journey as a woman in the cleaning industry

I started my career in FM in 2008 and traversed a much challenging path across these 16 years. 

2008 was a stepping stone for me, with very few female faces in the FM industry, but it was my determination that took me from the position of Soft service manager moving across reputed profiles to the current position of Senior Manager FM in Global Village. FM is well known for its dynamics and challenges, being a woman the first thing I had to substantiate was that I could be a leader who can shoulder challenges, lead a male dominated team and drive success.

In addition, I just kept adept to the industry demands by scaling new heights in necessary FM competencies including the IFMA CFM certification.

Gender related challenges in your career

Indeed in the beginning of the career, I have faced gender related challenges in addition to not being from an Engineering background in Academics. However I had a dream of becoming a full-fledged FM professional and not to confine myself to Soft services. I have always adopted a strategic approach towards understanding what the FM industry demands from an FM professional.

I have focused in developing my own skills and knowledge by taking MBA in Operation management in addition to certification Nibosh and ISO certification. Above all in FM you have to lead by setting example. 

Advice to young women who aspire to pursue a career in the cleaning industry

Success comes with perseverance and vision. We should keep on developing our skills by adopting international standards and accreditation which shall increase our credentials when we represent ourselves professionally. We have to trust ourselves that we are born-leaders and we can scale the heights irrespective of the fold of challenge it may arise.

The FM industry hence I believe is a strong opportunity for young women to aspire and pursue a career which shall bring in contentment as an individual both in the personal and professional front.