FAQs
How do I know whether to choose the Professional Competence (PC) route?
The PC route is for managers with at least five years’ experience of facilities management. You also need a good knowledge of FM, gained through the workplace or through related training and/or qualifications.
What makes this route different from the Higher Education (HE) or Examination routes?
On the other routes, candidates demonstrate their knowledge of FM by graduating from an accredited course or by taking the BIFM examination. On the PC route, you show knowledge and experience by compiling a portfolio of evidence against the criteria of the BIFM competences and no examination is required.
Would I have to demonstrate my knowledge and experience of all 20 competences?
Not many FMs cover such a broad remit and we don’t ask for 100% coverage. For experience we expect about 80% coverage of the competences and for knowledge, about 60%. We recognise that hands-on experience depends on your role/organisation and the knowledge component is in line with the other two routes.
Not many FMs cover such a broad remit and we don’t ask for 100% coverage. For experience we expect about 80% coverage of the competences and for knowledge, about 60%. We recognise that hands-on experience depends on your role/organisation and the knowledge component is in line with the other two routes.
What about the other areas? Can I ignore those?
We ask candidates to consider the options for developing skills and knowledge gaps. Job shadowing, case studies, private study or training courses can all help to strengthen the portfolio.
How do I apply for the PC route?
You’ll need to complete a Self Assessment Handbook (SAH) to make sure your experience and knowledge is appropriate for this route. This will give you a personal profile indicating any development areas you may need to strengthen. Click here for details of the SAH.
How long does it take to complete this route?
Once you’ve registered on the programme, you have two years to complete your portfolio but it can be done much sooner, depending on your work schedule and other commitments.
How is the portfolio assessed?
You’ll need to forward six separate submissions of evidence, each based on one of the management groupings of the BIFM competences. Click here for more details on assessment.
Can you give some examples of suitable evidence?
Reports, policy documents, a business case you’ve prepared. The important thing is to show evidence of your own contribution and expertise as a manager.
What happens when the portfolio has been assessed?
The last stage is to attend an interview with the BIFM Qualification panel.
For further queries or to obtain a Self Assessment Handbook, please contact the Professional Standards and Education Co-ordinator on 0845 058 1355 or e-mail pseco-ordinator@bifm.org.uk.
