Top 12 Building Manager Skills to Put on Your Resume

In the competitive field of building management, showcasing a robust set of skills on your resume can significantly enhance your marketability to potential employers. This article provides a curated list of the top 12 skills that are crucial for building managers, aiming to help you stand out in the job-seeking process and demonstrate your capability to effectively oversee and maintain properties.

Building Manager Skills

1. AutoCAD
2. BIM (Building Information Modeling)
3. HVAC Systems
4. Yardi Voyager
5. Energy Management
6. Fire Safety
7. Plumbing Systems
8. Electrical Systems
9. Project Management
10. Budgeting
11. Negotiation
12. Risk Management

1. AutoCAD

AutoCAD is a computer-aided design (CAD) software used for creating precise 2D and 3D drawings and models, essential for building managers in planning, designing, and managing building projects and maintenance.

Why It's Important

AutoCAD is crucial for Building Managers as it facilitates precise and efficient design, planning, and management of building layouts and systems, enabling optimized space utilization, compliance with regulations, and effective maintenance planning.

How to Improve AutoCAD Skills

To improve AutoCAD usage for a Building Manager, focus on these concise strategies:

1. Enhance Skills: Regularly update your CAD skills through Autodesk's official training and certification programs.

2. Utilize Templates: Create or download AutoCAD templates specific to building management to streamline your workflow. CADTutor offers resources and tutorials that can help in creating efficient templates.

3. Implement Add-ons: Use AutoCAD add-ons like AutoCAD Architecture tailored for building design and construction to enhance functionality.

4. Collaborate Efficiently: Leverage Autodesk’s BIM 360 for cloud-based collaboration, allowing for easy sharing and reviewing of CAD files among stakeholders.

5. Automate Routine Tasks: Learn and use AutoLISP programming to automate repetitive tasks. Resources like CADTutor AutoLISP provide a good starting point.

6. Stay Updated: Regularly check for updates and new features on Autodesk’s official site to ensure you’re using AutoCAD to its fullest potential.

By focusing on these areas, a Building Manager can significantly enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of their AutoCAD usage.

How to Display AutoCAD Skills on Your Resume

2. BIM (Building Information Modeling)

BIM (Building Information Modeling) is a digital representation of a building's physical and functional characteristics, enabling building managers to create and manage information throughout the building's lifecycle, from planning and design to construction and operations. It facilitates decision-making, improves coordination, and enhances efficiency in managing the building.

Why It's Important

BIM (Building Information Modeling) is crucial for a Building Manager as it provides a comprehensive digital representation of the physical and functional characteristics of a facility. This allows for improved decision-making, better coordination, efficient maintenance scheduling, and cost savings throughout the building's lifecycle.

How to Improve BIM (Building Information Modeling) Skills

To improve BIM (Building Information Modeling) for a Building Manager, consider the following strategies:

1. Continuous Education: Stay updated with the latest BIM technologies and methodologies through courses and certifications. Autodesk offers various resources and training for enhancing BIM skills.

2. Implement Standards and Protocols: Adopt and implement industry standards such as ISO 19650 to ensure consistency and efficiency in BIM processes.

3. Collaboration Tools: Utilize BIM collaboration tools like Autodesk BIM 360 to enhance coordination among the project team, improving project delivery and reducing errors.

4. Data Management: Implement efficient data management practices to ensure that BIM data is accurate and accessible, using platforms like Revizto for integrated BIM collaboration.

5. Utilize BIM for Facilities Management: Leverage BIM data beyond the design and construction phase for facility management, using tools like ARCHIBUS to improve building operations and maintenance.

6. Feedback Loop: Establish a feedback loop with your team to continuously improve BIM practices based on real-world challenges and solutions encountered during projects.

Focusing on these areas will help enhance the implementation of BIM technologies and processes, leading to improved efficiency, cost savings, and better-managed buildings.

How to Display BIM (Building Information Modeling) Skills on Your Resume

3. HVAC Systems

HVAC systems, standing for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning, are essential building systems responsible for regulating indoor temperature, airflow, and air quality to ensure a comfortable and safe environment for occupants.

Why It's Important

HVAC systems are crucial for maintaining indoor air quality, ensuring comfort, and managing energy costs, directly impacting occupant satisfaction and operational efficiency in buildings.

How to Improve HVAC Systems Skills

Improving HVAC systems in a building involves several key steps aimed at enhancing efficiency, comfort, and air quality. Here are concise strategies for a Building Manager:

1. Regular Maintenance: Schedule routine inspections and maintenance to ensure the system runs efficiently and to prevent unexpected breakdowns. ASHRAE provides guidelines for maintenance and operation.

2. Upgrade Systems: Consider upgrading to more energy-efficient models or components. Energy Star offers resources for finding high-efficiency HVAC systems.

3. Smart Thermostats: Install smart thermostats for better control and energy savings. Nest and Ecobee are popular options.

4. Improve Insulation and Sealing: Enhance the building's insulation and seal leaks to reduce energy loss. The U.S. Department of Energy provides tips on insulation and sealing.

5. Air Quality Improvements: Incorporate air purifiers and ensure proper ventilation to improve indoor air quality. The Environmental Protection Agency offers guidance on indoor air quality management.

6. Use of Renewable Energy: Explore options for integrating renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, to power the HVAC system. The Solar Energy Industries Association is a resource for exploring solar options.

7. Implement Zoning Systems: Use zoning systems to control temperature in different areas independently, enhancing comfort and reducing energy waste. Honeywell Home offers solutions for HVAC zoning.

By adopting these strategies, building managers can significantly improve the efficiency and performance of their HVAC systems, leading to cost savings and a more comfortable environment.

How to Display HVAC Systems Skills on Your Resume

4. Yardi Voyager

Yardi Voyager is a comprehensive, web-based property management and accounting platform designed for real estate operations, including residential, commercial, and mixed portfolios. For a Building Manager, it offers tools for managing leases, tenants, maintenance, finances, and reporting all in one centralized system, enhancing operational efficiency and decision-making.

Why It's Important

Yardi Voyager is important for a Building Manager because it provides an integrated platform for managing all aspects of property operations, including leasing, finance, maintenance, and reporting, enhancing efficiency and decision-making.

How to Improve Yardi Voyager Skills

Improving your experience with Yardi Voyager as a Building Manager involves optimizing system usage, leveraging training resources, and implementing best practices for efficient property management. Follow these concise steps:

1. Understand the Basics: Start with Yardi's official training to understand Voyager's core functionalities.
2. Customize Dashboards: Tailor your Voyager dashboard for quick access to frequently used reports and functions.
3. Automate Workflows: Utilize Yardi's automation tools to streamline rent collections, lease renewals, and maintenance requests.
4. Integrate Solutions: Explore Yardi's integrated solutions for building management, leasing, asset management, and more, to enhance Voyager's capabilities.
5. Stay Updated: Regularly update your software to leverage the latest features and security patches. Engage with the Yardi Client Central for updates and support.
6. Utilize Support and Community: Participate in Yardi forums and user groups to exchange tips and best practices with other professionals.

By focusing on these areas, you can significantly improve your efficiency and effectiveness in using Yardi Voyager for building management.

How to Display Yardi Voyager Skills on Your Resume

5. Energy Management

Energy management involves monitoring, controlling, and conserving energy within a building or organization to optimize usage, reduce costs, and enhance sustainability.

Why It's Important

Energy management is crucial for a Building Manager as it helps in reducing operational costs, improving building sustainability, and ensuring a comfortable environment for occupants, while also complying with energy regulations and reducing environmental impact.

How to Improve Energy Management Skills

Improving energy management in buildings involves several strategies aimed at reducing energy consumption, optimizing systems for efficiency, and leveraging technology for better control and monitoring. Here are concise steps a Building Manager can follow:

1. Conduct an Energy Audit: Identify areas of high energy use and inefficiencies. Energy Star offers tools for benchmarking energy performance.

2. Implement Energy-Efficient Lighting: Switch to LED lighting and utilize daylighting strategies. The Department of Energy provides guidance on LED lighting.

3. Upgrade HVAC Systems: Opt for energy-efficient HVAC systems and regular maintenance. ASHRAE offers standards and guidelines.

4. Utilize Smart Thermostats: Install smart thermostats for better temperature control. Nest and Ecobee offer popular options.

5. Adopt Renewable Energy: Consider solar panels or purchase green energy. The Solar Energy Industries Association has resources on solar energy adoption.

6. Implement Energy Management Systems (EMS): Use EMS for real-time monitoring and management of energy use. Siemens provides advanced systems.

7. Educate Occupants: Encourage energy-saving behaviors among building occupants. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency offers educational resources.

By following these steps and leveraging the provided resources, a Building Manager can significantly improve the energy management of their facility.

How to Display Energy Management Skills on Your Resume

6. Fire Safety

Fire safety refers to the set of practices and measures implemented to prevent fire outbreaks, minimize damage, and ensure the safety of occupants in a building. It involves adhering to building codes, installing and maintaining fire detection and suppression systems, conducting regular fire drills, and ensuring clear evacuation routes.

Why It's Important

Fire safety is crucial for a Building Manager as it protects lives, property, and ensures the continuity of operations by preventing and mitigating the impact of fires through preparedness, detection, and response strategies.

How to Improve Fire Safety Skills

Improving fire safety as a Building Manager involves several critical steps to ensure the safety of the building's occupants and property. Here are concise strategies:

1. Regular Inspections: Conduct regular fire safety inspections to identify and remedy potential hazards. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) provides guidelines for these inspections.

2. Maintenance of Fire Safety Equipment: Ensure that all fire safety equipment, including extinguishers, alarms, and sprinkler systems, are in working order. Regular maintenance schedules can be found at U.S. Fire Administration (USFA).

3. Fire Safety Plan: Develop and regularly update a comprehensive fire safety plan. Guidance on creating these plans is available from Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

4. Education and Training: Provide regular fire safety training for all building occupants. This includes evacuation drills, the use of fire extinguishers, and understanding of fire safety plans. Training resources are available at Fire Safety Education.

5. Access and Egress: Ensure clear access to all exit routes and maintain them free of obstruction. International Code Council (ICC) provides codes and standards for egress.

6. Compliance with Regulations: Stay updated and comply with local building codes and fire safety regulations. Your local fire department and the International Fire Code (IFC) are valuable resources.

7. Communication Systems: Install and maintain effective communication systems to alert and guide building occupants during an emergency. Guidelines can be found through Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

By implementing these strategies, a Building Manager can significantly improve fire safety and ensure a safer environment for all building occupants.

How to Display Fire Safety Skills on Your Resume

7. Plumbing Systems

Plumbing systems in a building manage the distribution of water for drinking, heating, washing, and the removal of waterborne wastes, ensuring a safe and efficient flow throughout the property.

Why It's Important

Plumbing systems are crucial for ensuring safe water supply and waste disposal, vital for occupants' health, comfort, and the building's structural integrity. They prevent water damage and maintain hygiene standards, essential for operational efficiency and regulatory compliance.

How to Improve Plumbing Systems Skills

Improving plumbing systems in buildings involves several key steps aimed at enhancing efficiency, reducing water waste, and ensuring longevity. Here are concise strategies for building managers:

1. Regular Maintenance: Schedule routine inspections and maintenance to identify and fix leaks, corrosion, or blockages early. American Society of Plumbing Engineers offers guidelines on maintenance practices.

2. Upgrade Fixtures: Replace old fixtures with high-efficiency models like low-flow toilets and faucets to save water. The Environmental Protection Agency's WaterSense program provides a list of efficient products.

3. Monitor Water Pressure: Ensure the water pressure is within a safe range to prevent pipe damage. Installing pressure reducing valves can help; guidance can be found through Plumbing Manufacturers International.

4. Implement Leak Detection Systems: Use smart water monitors and leak detection systems to catch leaks early. The International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) offers insights into the latest technologies.

5. Water Treatment and Conditioning: Treat water to prevent scale and corrosion, which can harm pipes and fixtures. Water Quality Association provides resources on water treatment solutions.

6. Educate Tenants: Provide information on conserving water and preventing clogs. Simple guidelines can significantly reduce the strain on the plumbing system.

By adopting these practices, building managers can significantly improve the efficiency, reliability, and sustainability of their plumbing systems.

How to Display Plumbing Systems Skills on Your Resume

8. Electrical Systems

Electrical systems in a building encompass all the components and infrastructure used to distribute and control electricity throughout the facility, including wiring, outlets, lighting, generators, circuit breakers, and safety devices, ensuring safe and efficient power supply for operation and comfort.

Why It's Important

Electrical systems are crucial for a building manager because they ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable distribution of power for lighting, heating, cooling, and operation of equipment, directly impacting the building's functionality, safety, and comfort for occupants.

How to Improve Electrical Systems Skills

Improving electrical systems in buildings involves several key steps aimed at enhancing efficiency, safety, and sustainability. Here's a concise guide for Building Managers:

1. Conduct Energy Audits: Regularly assess your building's electrical usage to identify inefficiencies. Energy Star offers tools for benchmarking and improving energy performance.

2. Upgrade Lighting: Switch to LED lighting, which is more energy-efficient and has a longer lifespan than traditional lighting. Consider installing occupancy sensors to reduce electricity usage in unoccupied spaces.

3. Install Energy-Efficient Appliances: Replace old appliances with Energy Star-rated ones that consume less electricity. This Energy Star product finder can help identify high-efficiency products.

4. Improve HVAC Systems: HVAC systems are significant energy consumers. Regular maintenance and upgrades to more efficient models can lead to substantial savings. The Department of Energy offers guidelines for optimizing HVAC performance.

5. Implement Renewable Energy Sources: If feasible, incorporate renewable energy sources such as solar panels to reduce reliance on grid electricity. The Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE) provides information on incentives for renewable energy installations.

6. Enhance Electrical System Maintenance: Regular inspection and maintenance of electrical panels, wiring, and equipment ensure they operate efficiently and safely. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) provides standards and codes for electrical safety.

7. Educate Occupants: Encourage energy-saving behaviors among building occupants. Simple actions like turning off lights and equipment when not in use can lead to significant energy savings.

8. Monitor and Control Energy Use: Invest in a Building Energy Management System (BEMS) to continuously monitor and control the building's electrical systems. This technology can identify inefficiencies and automate energy-saving measures. Siemens offers insights into building automation and control.

By implementing these strategies, building managers can significantly improve the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of their building's electrical systems.

How to Display Electrical Systems Skills on Your Resume

9. Project Management

Project management, in the context of a Building Manager, involves planning, executing, and overseeing construction projects to ensure they are completed on time, within budget, and to quality standards. It includes coordinating tasks, resources, and stakeholders from inception to completion.

Why It's Important

Project management is crucial for a Building Manager as it ensures that construction and maintenance projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards, thereby safeguarding the building's value and functionality.

How to Improve Project Management Skills

Improving project management, especially for a Building Manager, involves streamlining processes, enhancing communication, and leveraging technology. Here are concise steps with resources for further reading:

1. Implement Project Management Software: Use tools like Trello or Asana for task assignments, deadlines, and progress tracking.

2. Adopt Agile Methodologies: Agile practices like sprints and stand-ups can improve flexibility and team collaboration. Learn more at Agile Alliance.

3. Regular Training and Education: Keep skills updated with online courses from platforms like Coursera or LinkedIn Learning.

4. Effective Communication: Establish clear communication channels using tools like Slack for instant messaging and Zoom for video conferencing.

5. Risk Management: Develop a proactive approach to risk management by identifying potential issues early. The Project Management Institute offers resources on this topic.

6. Stakeholder Engagement: Regularly update stakeholders and involve them in decision-making processes. Tools like SurveyMonkey can gather feedback efficiently.

7. Time Management: Prioritize tasks and set realistic deadlines. Techniques and tips can be found at MindTools.

8. Financial Management: Keep a close eye on the budget with software like QuickBooks for accurate and real-time financial tracking.

Improving project management is an ongoing process that requires consistent effort and the willingness to adapt to new practices and technologies.

How to Display Project Management Skills on Your Resume

10. Budgeting

Budgeting, in the context of a Building Manager, involves the process of creating a financial plan to manage income and expenses for the maintenance and operation of a building, ensuring optimal use of funds for repairs, upgrades, and daily operations.

Why It's Important

Budgeting is crucial for a Building Manager as it ensures efficient allocation of financial resources for maintenance, operations, and improvements, enhancing building functionality and value while preventing financial shortfalls and enabling strategic planning for future expenses.

How to Improve Budgeting Skills

Improving budgeting for a Building Manager involves several key steps geared towards efficient financial management and planning. Here’s a concise guide:

1. Assess Current Spending: Review and categorize all current expenses to identify areas for cost reduction. BOMA International provides resources that can help in understanding typical building management expenses.

2. Utilize Software Solutions: Adopt budget management software designed for real estate or facility management, like Buildium or AppFolio, which can streamline budget tracking and forecasting.

3. Implement Energy-Saving Measures: Reduce utility costs through energy-efficient upgrades. Resources like ENERGY STAR offer guidelines and tools for energy management.

4. Negotiate with Vendors: Regularly review contracts and negotiate with suppliers to ensure competitive pricing. Tips on negotiation can be found through the Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM).

5. Plan for Maintenance and Repairs: Set aside a portion of the budget for unexpected repairs and regular maintenance, using predictive maintenance strategies where possible. FacilitiesNet offers insights on maintenance planning.

6. Review and Adjust Regularly: Continuously monitor the budget's performance against actual expenses and adjust forecasts accordingly. Engage with The National Association of Residential Property Managers (NARPM) for resources on financial management and budgeting best practices.

By following these steps and utilizing the resources provided, Building Managers can significantly improve their budgeting processes, leading to more efficient and cost-effective building management.

How to Display Budgeting Skills on Your Resume

11. Negotiation

Negotiation, in the context of a Building Manager, involves the strategic discussion and compromise between parties to reach agreements on contracts, services, and disputes related to the management and operation of a building.

Why It's Important

Negotiation is crucial for a Building Manager as it enables effective conflict resolution, ensures fair contracts and leases, optimizes operational costs, and fosters positive relationships with tenants, vendors, and service providers, thereby enhancing overall building management efficiency.

How to Improve Negotiation Skills

To improve negotiation as a Building Manager, focus on the following concise strategies:

1. Prepare thoroughly: Understand your needs, the needs of the other party, and the specifics of the building or service in question. Harvard Business Review’s Guide to Negotiating offers an excellent framework for preparation.

2. Build rapport: Establish a positive relationship with the other party to facilitate smoother negotiations. MindTools provides strategies for building rapport effectively.

3. Listen actively: Ensure you understand the other party's points by listening actively. This MindTools resource can help improve your listening skills.

4. Communicate clearly and assertively: Be clear about your needs and limits without being aggressive. The Assertive Communication Guide from SkillsYouNeed can enhance your communication skills.

5. Seek win-win outcomes: Aim for solutions that benefit both parties. The concept of Principled Negotiation from the book "Getting to Yes" by Fisher, Ury, and Patton is a valuable resource.

6. Be willing to compromise: Flexibility can lead to more favorable outcomes. This guide by the American Management Association highlights the importance of compromise.

7. Know when to walk away: Recognize when the deal does not meet your minimum requirements. Forbes discusses the importance of walking away in negotiations.

By incorporating these strategies, you’ll enhance your negotiation skills as a Building Manager, leading to more favorable and effective outcomes.

How to Display Negotiation Skills on Your Resume

12. Risk Management

Risk management for a Building Manager involves identifying, assessing, and prioritizing risks to the property and its occupants, then implementing strategies to minimize, monitor, and control the impact of those risks, ensuring safety, compliance, and operational continuity.

Why It's Important

Risk management is crucial for a Building Manager as it helps to identify, assess, and mitigate potential risks, ensuring the safety, security, and operational continuity of the building, while also protecting its value and minimizing financial losses.

How to Improve Risk Management Skills

Improving risk management for a Building Manager involves identifying, analyzing, and mitigating potential risks to ensure the safety, security, and maintenance of the property. Here’s a concise guide:

1. Risk Identification: Start by identifying potential risks, including structural issues, fire hazards, security breaches, and environmental concerns. Tools like Risk Assessment Templates can help in listing and categorizing risks.

2. Risk Analysis: Evaluate the likelihood and impact of identified risks. Techniques like SWOT Analysis can be employed to understand strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats related to building management.

3. Risk Mitigation: Develop strategies to reduce or eliminate risks. This includes regular maintenance, security upgrades, and compliance with safety regulations. The National Institute of Building Sciences offers guidelines and resources for building management and risk mitigation strategies.

4. Risk Monitoring and Review: Continuously monitor the risk environment and review mitigation measures. Tools like Risk Management Software can assist in tracking and updating risk status in real time.

5. Education and Training: Ensure that you and your team are knowledgeable about the latest in risk management practices. Websites like OSHA provide resources and training for workplace safety and compliance.

6. Insurance: Secure comprehensive insurance coverage as a financial tool for risk transfer. Guidance on selecting the right insurance can be found through The Insurance Information Institute.

7. Emergency Preparedness: Develop and regularly update an emergency action plan. Resources for creating these plans are available at Ready.gov.

By following these steps and utilizing the linked resources, a Building Manager can significantly improve their risk management practices.

How to Display Risk Management Skills on Your Resume