The Value of Mentorship in Facility Management

In facility management, professional growth doesn’t happen in a vacuum. It thrives in community. 

Whether you're mentoring someone new to the profession or seeking guidance to navigate your next career step, communication is key. From listening with intention to offering feedback that builds confidence, strong communication is what makes mentorship meaningful.

And while many people believe in the power of mentoring, the reality tells another story. According to research from Guider, 76% of professionals say mentorship is important, yet only 37% currently have a mentor.

Why facility management mentorship matters

A growing body of research proves that mentorship isn’t just a professional courtesy, it’s a proven method for increasing performance, retention and engagement. For facility professionals, participating in a mentoring program like IFMA’s Mentor Match can lead to measurable career outcomes:

• Career advancement: Mentees are five times more likely to be promoted, and mentors are six times more likely to receive a promotion. (Wharton School of Business)
• Workplace engagement: Employees with mentors are twice as likely to be engaged, which correlates with an 18 percent increase in productivity and a 24% increase in profitability. (Gallup)
• Professional retention: Retention rates are 72% for mentees and 69% for mentors, compared to just 49% for those not involved in mentorship. (Mentorloop)
• Equity in leadership: Mentoring supports inclusive advancement, with 15 to 38% higher promotion and retention rates among underrepresented professionals. (Art of Mentoring)

For facility managers, the takeaway is clear. Mentorship builds stronger careers, fosters inclusive leadership and helps professionals thrive across all sectors and regions.

Turning insight into action

Knowing the benefits of mentorship is only the first step. The next is putting that knowledge into practice. For facility professionals, finding the right mentor — or becoming one — means building relationships that translate theory into real-world impact.

A great mentoring connection can help you navigate certification goals, develop leadership skills or understand how to manage complex facilities more strategically. Likewise, serving as a mentor strengthens your ability to coach, communicate and lead teams with confidence.

In an industry that depends on collaboration and continuous learning, mentorship ensures that institutional knowledge and innovative ideas move forward together. It’s a practical way to grow personally and professionally while helping advance the entire FM community.

Empowering growth through IFMA’s Mentor Match

Mentorship works best when it’s supported by structure and shared purpose. That’s where IFMA’s Mentor Match program comes in. Designed specifically for facility professionals, it connects members across roles, regions and experience levels to foster meaningful professional relationships. Whether you’re new to the field or a seasoned leader, the program helps you find the right connection to guide your growth, share best practices and strengthen the FM community.

How to join IFMA’s Mentor Match Program

IFMA’s Mentor Match is a free benefit for full members, offering a structured, goal-oriented way to connect with other professionals in facility management.

1. Log in at www.engage.ifma.org
2. Go to the Mentor Match
3. Enroll as a Mentor or Mentee
4. Complete your profile as a mentor or mentee
5. Search for potential matches and start your mentoring journey

Every career in FM is built on shared knowledge, experience and community. By joining IFMA’s Mentor Match, you’re not only investing in your own professional growth, you’re contributing to the advancement of the entire field. Whether you want to learn from others, give back to the profession or help shape the next generation of facility leaders, mentorship is where growth begins.

Ready to take the next step?