Cleaning Careers Guide 2014

Transcription

1 Cleaning Careers Guide

2 CONTENTS Chapter 1 Working in cleaning 3 Why choose cleaning?... 4 What makes good cleaning professional?... 5 Salaries & Benefits... 6 Chapter 2 Cleaning Careers... 7 Cleaning Operative... 8 Specialist Cleaning Operative... 9 Window Cleaner Cleaning Supervisor Cleaning Manager Chapter 3 Apprenticeships & Qualifications Apprenticeships Earn While You Learn Cleaning Qualifications Chapter 4 Decision Making Making the Right Decision Post 16 Subject Choices 17 Going to University Chapter 5 Job Hunting Searching for a Job in Cleaning Your CV Your Covering Letter Application Forms Make a Good Impression Chapter 6 Cleaning People Case Studies: Cleaning Supervisor Case Studies: Cleaning Services Manager Chapter 7 Further Information.. 28 How can Asset Skills help you? Directory: Professional Bodies 30 Directory: Awarding Bodies.. 31 Directory: Careers Information

3 WORKING IN CLEANING 3

4 WHY CHOOSE CLEANING? Have you ever seriously considered a career in cleaning? If you are motivated and willing to put in some hard work a job in cleaning could be just what you need. You may not have seriously considered the possibility of a career in cleaning but there are some excellent opportunities for entrepreneurialism, progression and high earnings if you are willing to work your way up the ranks and develop your skills. Historically, cleaning has been seen as an unskilled and unprofessional industry; however, this is no longer the case as modern cleaning service provision requires a range of skills due to its complexity and technicality. For example, cleaning operatives need to understand ph values so they can dilute chemicals correctly, they must know the difference between one type of floor and another, and they must have extensive knowledge of different cleaning techniques. More recently, businesses have started to introduce the concept of day-time cleaning to cut operational costs and increase business sustainability so the number of cleaning staff working unsociable hours or part-time is declining. Career Options Cleaning offers a range of career options depending on whether you re interested in general cleaning or more specialist cleaning areas like window, upholstery, office, graffiti, bio-hazard, carpet or crime scene cleaning. Typical jobs in the sector range from a cleaning operative responsible for performing a range of cleaning duties, to cleaning service managers responsible for overseeing cleaning operations at multiple sites. REASONS TO CHOOSE A CAREER IN CLEANING 1. Variety - You will have the opportunity to take responsibility for a range of cleaning duties. 2. Work Ethic Cleaners are able to develop a good work ethic allowing them to complete tasks to a high standard. 3. Career If you are willing to put in the work, you can develop a successful career in cleaning. 4. Challenge - You will experience the challenges associated with ensuring buildings are clean and safe on a daily basis. 5. People - You will have the chance to work with people from a wide range of backgrounds. 4

5 WHAT MAKES A GOOD CLEANING PROFESSIONAL? No matter what your area of interest, there are some skills that all cleaning employers are looking for in potential new recruits. You will need to be an enthusiastic individual willing to learn basic cleaning skills, such as mopping and measuring and diluting chemicals, on the job and prepared to take responsibility for your work. You will need to be organised and a multitasker able to perform a range of different tasks from cleaning kitchens, offices or residential homes, to ordering stock, organising work schedules and supervising other staff. There is a skills shortage in the profession for staff with communication and customer service skills so you will need to work on these, particularly if you want to work on daytime cleaning contracts where you are more likely to come into contact with customers. Employers are also increasingly looking for people with the management skills, supervisory skills and confidence necessary to fill high level management positions in the future. So a willingness to continue your own personal development through the range of cleaning qualifications available is a very popular attribute with some employers. The Wider Context Cleaning is a varied and flexible job that has become increasingly complex over the past ten years. Whilst there is not much opportunity to progress in domestic cleaning, commercial cleaning offers significant scope for advancement through qualifications that can bring greater financial rewards. THE VALUE OF WORK EXPERIENCE IN CLEANING In such a competitive job market, many candidates are finding that to secure a job they must combine their academic achievements with experience in the workplace. Work experience can benefit you by: Developing your employability skills and business awareness. Providing you with the opportunity to interact with experienced staff in a professional capacity. Giving your CV a competitive edge by differentiating you from other candidates. Providing you with more life experience. Giving you the chance to work independently and as part of a team. Providing you with the chance to learn more about yourself e.g. how you react in certain situations. 5

6 SALARIES & BENEFITS Despite tough economic conditions, the cleaning industry still offers competitive salaries and benefits. The table below provides a snapshot of the various roles and typical earning potential. Please note that this is just a guide as salaries rise with experience and vary according to function and location. At the start of your career you are likely to earn approximately 12,000 if you are employed on a fulltime basis. 38 % 62 % FEMALE / MALE RATIO IN CLEANING 62/38 Evidence suggests that there is a slight gender gap within the cleaning industry 38 per cent of the cleaning workforce is male, while 62 per cent are female (Annual Population Survey, 2013). Industry leaders are encouraging more people to start a career in cleaning because gender diversity gives employers access to a wide range of skills, can lead to more innovative thinking and better decision making. TYPICAL SALARIES ACROSS THE UK Level of Responsibility Cleaning Operative Specialist Cleaning Operative Cleaning Supervisor Cleaning Services Manager Facilities Manager Average Salary 12,000 (full-time) 14,000-18,000 (full-time) 16,000-20,000 (full-time) 20,000-25,000 (full-time) 26,000-45,000 (full-time) 6

7 CLEANING CAREERS 7

8 CLEANING OPERATIVE skills Independent and team working skills Does the idea of being stuck behind a desk send shivers down your spine? Then this could be just the job for you. What do they do? A cleaning operative (sometimes called cleaner or domestic service assistant) is responsible for making sure buildings, transport and their surrounding areas are clean and safe for people to use. If you clean premises such as office buildings and hospitals you may be employed by a cleaning contractor. Career prospects in commercial cleaning are good if you want to progress to supervisory or management positions. Alternatively, you could set up your own cleaning business. What would my duties be? JUNIOR POSITION MID POSITION All areas of the building (eg.toilets, kitchens, offices, corridors, cafeteria or communal areas) are cleansed to a high standard. What skills do I need? Basic cleaning skills Knowledge of health and safety Ability to use chemicals Ability to use cleaning equipment Physical fitness Communication skills Organisational skills Customer service skills Literacy and numeracy What qualifications do I need? There are no formal entry requirements to get a job as a cleaning operative. However, once you have secured a position there are a range of qualifications available to improve your chance of promotion and a higher salary. Cleaning Operative Earns 12,000 (full-time) Typically requires BICS Cleaning Operators Profeciency Certificate or cleaning apprenticeship Cleaning Supervisor Earns 16,000-20,000 (full-time) Typically requires BICSc Cleaning Supervisory Skills Certificate and the ability to manage others You will be responsible for following a cleaning schedule to ensure SENIORPOSITION Cleaning Services Manager Earns 20,000-25,000 (full-time) Typically requires managerial course and the ability to manage others 8

9 SPECIALIST CLEANING OPERATIVE Have you ever considered a career fighting grime? Well this could be your chance to give it a go. What do they do? Specialist cleaning operatives use science, technology and training to clean and restore dangerous environments, such as filthy properties, squats, crime scenes and trauma scenes. This can be a challenging job as environments like these can contain drug paraphernalia, biohazardous waste, bodily fluids and animal infestations. What would my duties be? Prior to entering a dangerous environment you will have to gain as much information as possible by liaising with local environmental health officers. You will use this information to complete risk assessments and method statements before undertaking any activity at the premises. As you clean these dangerous environments you will have to adhere to strict disposal procedures and ensure you comply with health and safety legislation. What skills do I need? Technical cleaning skills Industry experience Knowledge of health and safety Ability to use chemicals Physical fitness Communication skills Organisational skills Customer service skills Independent and team working skills Knowledge of waste disposal procedures DOS AND DON TS OF THE SPECIALIST CLEANING PROFESSION 1. DO approach every dangerous environment with caution and be alert to potential dangers. 2. DO ensure you adhere to all relevant legislation and procedures. 3. DON T cut corners because rushing a job can put others in danger. 4. DO carry out all your risk assessments and method statements before undertaking activity. 5. DON T ignore any of the above. 9

10 WINDOW CLEANER Are you looking for a job where you can go out and about? If your answers yes, why not give this job a chance. What do they do? Window cleaners are responsible for washing and drying glass surfaces on the insides and outsides of buildings such as private homes, offices and retail outlets. Many window cleaners are often self-employed, employed by facilities management companies that provide a wide range of building maintenance services or employed by large businesses that need their own window cleaners. What duties will I have? What skills will I need? Communication skills Organisational skills Physical fitness Customer service skills Ability to use chemicals Basic cleaning skills Knowledge of health and safety Comfortable working at heights JUNIOR POSITION What qualifications do I need? There are no formal entry requirements to get a job as a window cleaner. However, once you have secured a position there are qualifications available to develop your skills. Window Cleaner Earns 12,000 (full-time) Typically requires BICSc Cleaning Operators Proficiency Certificate or Level 2 Certificate in Cleaning and Support Services As a window cleaner you will use brushes, sponges and cloths to apply cleaning solutions and dry wet glass with cloths or squeegees. If the window is above ground level, you will either work up a ladder or, on larger buildings, use scaffolding or work in suspended cradles. MID POSITION SENIOR POSITION Cleaning Supervisor Earns 14,000-18,000 (full-time) Typically requires: BICSc Cleaning Supervisory Skills Certificate and the ability to manage others Cleaning Services Manager Earns 20,000-25,000 (full-time) Typically requires: managerial course and the ability to manage others 10

11 CLEANING SUPERVISOR If you are interested in a job with more responsibility, then why not consider a supervisory position? What do they do? Cleaning supervisors have overall responsibility for the day-to-day cleaning operation so that the building, transport and its surrounding area are clean and safe for people to live or work in. They still undertake cleaning tasks within the building but have additional responsibilities like administration, monitoring cleaning quality and supervision. What would my duties be? As a supervisor you will have to assign cleaning areas to staff, carry out daily inspections to ensure the premises are cleaned and supervise staff to ensure they follow health and safety procedures. What skills do I need? Supervisory skills Communications skills Interpersonal skills Customer service skills Organisational skills Multi-tasking skills Ability to use chemicals Basic cleaning skills Team working skills Knowledge of health and safety JUNIOR POSITION What qualifications do I need? There are no formal entry requirements to get a job in cleaning. However, to get a job as a supervisor you usually need experience working in cleaning and the ability to manage others. To develop the necessary skills you could take a BICSc Cleaning Supervisory Skills Certificate. Cleaning Operative Earns 12,000 (full-time) Typically requires BICSc Cleaning Operators Proficiency Certificate or cleaning apprenticeship You will also have administrative duties such as maintaining logs and timesheets, ordering cleaning stock and researching potential developments in cleaning equipment that could improve the service provided. Also supervisors need to ensure staff have received the right training. MID POSITION SENIOR POSITION Cleaning Supervisor Earns 14,000-18,000 (full-time) Typically requires: BICSc Cleaning Supervisory Skills Certificate and the ability to manage others Cleaning Services Manager Earns 20,000-25,000 (full-time) Typically requires: managerial course and the ability to manage others 11

12 CLEANING SERVICES MANAGER If you are willing to put in the hard work becoming a cleaning services manager could another way to develop your career. What do they do? Cleaning services managers are responsible for coordinating the work of cleaning operatives based at a number of different sites and ensuring that their standard of work meets the needs of the client. What would my duties be? As a cleaning services manager you will be responsible for assisting cleaning supervisors to organise the workload of both full-time and part-time staff. You will be responsible for advertising and interviewing for new and replacement cleaning operatives. What skills do I need? Management skills Communication skills Interpersonal skills Customer service skills Organisational skills Multi-tasking skills Team working skills JUNIOR POSITION What qualification do I need? There are no formal entry requirements to get a job as a cleaning manager; however, supervisory experience within cleaning and the ability to manage others would be useful. To improve your chances of success you could do a managerial course. Cleaning Operative Earns 12,000 (full-time) Typically requires BICSc Cleaning Operators Proficiency Certificate or cleaning apprenticeship Other administrative duties may include organising additional cleaning work, approving stock orders and checking timesheets. You will monitor the performance of staff and take the necessary action to improve performance liaising with the HR department as required. MID POSITION SENIOR POSITION Cleaning Supervisor Earns 14,000-18,000 (full-time) Typically requires: BICSc Cleaning Supervisory Skills Certificate and the ability to manage others Cleaning Services Manager Earns 20,000-25,000 (full-time) Typically requires: managerial course and the ability to manage others 12

13 APPRENTICESHIPS AND QUALIFICATIONS 13

14 APPRENTICESHIPS EARN WHILE YOU LEARN As the cost of going to university increases, an apprenticeship route can be a great, cost-effective way to start your career in cleaning. Apprenticeships are an established route for people to enter their chosen field of work by easing the sometimes difficult transition between full-time learning and employment. They allow you to develop practical, job specific skills by working alongside experienced staff. Apprentices gain a qualification that is valued by employers and enhances their prospects for career progression in the future. Apprenticeships offer the added benefit of allowing you to earn money as you develop your skills. In recent years, the range of industries and areas covered by apprenticeships has grown, particularly as the model has become a key part of government policy. The government covers a proportion of the cost associated with training apprentices; however, this is dependent on the age of the apprentice. How it works The majority of the training is on the job at the employer s premises working alongside experienced staff to gain job specific skills, while the rest of the training is provided by a local college or specialist training provider this can be completed on day release or block release (where you study for a week or two at a time. How an apprenticeship can benefits you The UK Government is working hard to make Apprenticeships equal to other qualifications such as A-Levels and degrees so employers recognise the value of Apprenticeships. Cleaning Apprenticeships The cleaning and environmental services apprenticeship framework outlines an intermediate apprenticeship with two pathways. The first is the cleaning pathway which focuses on developing the skills of staff in a variety of job roles including hygiene operative, specialist cleaner, window cleaner and passenger transport valet. The second is the environmental services pathway which has been designed to develop the cleaning and horticultural skills of staff employed in neighbourhood services. The Asset Skills Website: 14

15 CLEANING QUALIFICATIONS Higher level qualifications and experience in cleaning and management can quickly lead to senior positions in the cleaning industry. Skills shortages in the industry mean people that can demonstrate the correct skills and qualifications are in a good position to climb the career ladder more quickly than is sometimes possible in other sectors. The Asset Skills Website: School/College/University GCSEs A-levels, BTEC National Diplomas Foundation Degree University Maths, English and Science qualifications would be useful Maths, English and Science would be useful, along with other subjects such as business studies Environmental Cleaning Management A relevant degree such as facilities management or business studies Work-based Learning (where your studies are part of your job) Level 1 Level 2 Apprenticeship Level 2 Award in Cleaning and Support Service Skills; BICSc Certificate in Cleaning Cleaning and Environmental Services; Facilities Services Cleaning Principles; Cleaning and Support Services and Local Environmental Services This qualification is available from the University of Northampton. Different awarding bodies have slightly different titles for their qualifications. Level 3 Apprenticeship Facilities Management Suitable for those over the age of 18 with a level 2/3 education. Level 3 Certificate or Diploma in Cleaning Supervision Skills Certificate in Property Caretaking and Facilities Supervision ILM/BIFM Level 3 in FM Award/Certificate/Diploma This qualification would be a useful qualification for people in management. Higher Apprenticeships at Levels 4, 5 and 6 Facilities Management These new higher level apprenticeships offer an alternative route to a degree. BIFM Levels 4-7 These qualifications are for experienced facilities managers looking to progress their careers. These qualifications would be useful for people working in higher level cleaning management roles. 15

16 DECISION MAKING 16

17 MAKING THE RIGHT DECISION POST 16 SUBJECT CHOICES The choices you make now could affect what you go on to do at university. How should I decide? You should try to choose subjects to study at a higher level that: You are good at and have enjoyed studying You need to enter a particular career or course You should try to study subjects that suit your strengths What will give me the most options? Many courses at university level build on the knowledge you will have gained at school and college. As parking related subjects are not taught at school, students can study a wide variety of A-Level or equivalent qualifications. The following list of subjects might be useful to study at A-Level before moving onto a property course at university: Mathematics English Science Law Business Economics Geography History Language Is there anything else I need? If you have a specific course or university in mind, use their entry requirements as a guide while making your decisions. Most universities require a minimum grade C at GCSE in English Language and Mathematics as well as A- Levels (or equivalent qualifications) to ensure that you will be able to understand lectures and complete any coursework. Universities are also looking for motivated candidates that will regularly attend lectures and get the most out of their university experience. 1. Listen to people around you but make up your own mind which subjects to do, using the information you have. 2. Do not choose a subject because your favourite teacher is teaching it! 3. Research the syllabuses of new subjects before choosing them so you know what to expect. 4. Do not choose a subject because your current teacher expects you to take it. 5. Look at the workload of your subject choices to see how they are assessed you may not want 3 courses where all your chances rest on exams at the end of the year. 17

18 GOING TO UNIVERSITY Not sure about taking degree? Here s a bit more information to help you make the right decision. Why do a degree? For many industries a fulltime honours degree is the accepted academic route to professional status. Many courses are based on units of study or modules. Each module lets you earn credits towards your qualification, while giving you a degree of flexibility over the focus of your studies. There is a good range of qualifications available at university. These include full-time BScs as well as part-time post-graduate qualifications (diplomas, MSc or MBA) that mainly attract middle to senior level managers who are keen to continue developing their careers. What are the benefits of university life? Adapting to university is one of the most rewarding challenges you will ever face. The main advantages of going to university are: To immerse yourself in your chosen subject you get to study what you want in your own time. To enhance your career prospects employers like the commitment and dedication that studying one subject for three years shows. To meet lifelong friends university allows you to socialise with a wide range of people from all walks of life. To undertake extracurricular activities you can join all sorts of clubs, societies and teams. How much will it cost? The costs of being a student vary between different parts of the UK and the length of courses. Financial support is available, so money does not have to be a barrier. Prospects Graduate Careers Website: Prospects provide detailed information on the courses available across the UK. UCAS UCAS is the organisation responsible for managing applications to higher education courses in the UK. Asset Skills Website: Asset Skills is the sector skills council for cleaning. 18

19 JOB HUNTING 19

20 SEARCHING FOR A JOB IN CLEANING So you ve decided that parking is for you. But what are the next steps in your search for the perfect parking job? Where do I look? Cleaning vacancies are advertised in a variety of places, including: local and national press; specialist building or cleaning publications; on professional bodies websites and at networking events. Recruitment or careers fairs are also a great way of learning about the industry, meeting potential employers and making a good impression. How can I improve my chances? Utilising free or inexpensive services that provide careers guidance and job search assistance can be a great place to start. These services are often offered by your local college or university careers centre, job centre or local library. Careers advisers will suggest you take a copy of your CV to these meetings so that the advisor can offer specific advice on how to improve your chances. It is also a good idea to build up a network of people that can help you develop your career prospects (through work experience for example) or contact potential employers (smaller employers tend to rely on word-of-mouth, headhunting or internal recruitment to fill vacancies). Are there other routes into the parking industry? Yes, fixed term contracts, short-term placements, part-time or temporary work through agencies are all useful entry points, especially in a depressed economic market where employers may be reluctant to take on permanent staff. Keep your spirits up It can take time to get a job because you need to go through the process several times before you develop the right CV writing and interview technique. To speed up this process you should get feedback on each stage of your job search. COMMON MISTAKES JOB SEEKERS MAKE 1. Failing to research the company you need to tailor your application and interview responses to the company. 2. Insufficient preparation spend time making sure each job application is as strong as possible. 3. Unable to link past experiences to the job role try to come up with examples of when you have used the skills listed on the job specification. 20

21 YOUR CV An excellent CV can be your gateway to first-class employment opportunities. You have seconds to persuade a potential employer to interview you so an effective CV may be the only way to grab their attention. Your curriculum vitae is primarily your passport to interview. It isn t your life story but it is a clear concise explanation of why an employer should talk to you in person. Remember that when you are applying for a number of jobs a one-size-fits-all CV won t always work. You are likely to have more success if you tailor your CV to highlight specific skills and experience relevant to the post you have applied for. There are two popular types of CV: 1. Chronological CV this is the most widely used format which outlines your work and educational history. It is ideal if you are developing your career in a particular industry. 2. Skills Based CV highlights the skills and achievements that you have gained throughout your education and working career. This style of CV is also good for those just starting out in the industry. What should I include? All CVs should include the following information: Contact details including name, address, phone number and address. Work experience this may include part-time work, voluntary work and school work experience placements. Education details this should include the name and address of your school/college/ university, dates you were there, the qualifications and grades you achieved. Other significant information such as first aid certificates or Duke of Edinburgh achievements. CV MYTHS 1. Title there is no need to put Curriculum Vitae at the top of your CV. 2. The bigger the better a CV should be about quality, not quantity. 3. References you don t have to include references on your CV, instead you could write references available upon request. 4. One-size-fits-all remember different job applications require you to highlight different skills and experiences. 5. Special styles & fonts get noticed - too much creativity can be distracting. Stick to standard fonts, black text and no graphics. For more information on how to set out your CV visit: t.gov.uk/advice/getajob/cvs/pages/f ormats.aspx 21

22 YOUR COVERING LETTER An excellent covering letter provides you with a great opportunity to make a good first impression. Whenever possible, send a covering letter with your CV or application form that reflects your qualities, style and professionalism. Your letter must therefore highlight your motivation, commitment and relevant skills without regurgitating everything in your CV. Structure You re not writing your autobiography so a covering letter should be no longer than one page of A4, consisting of between 4 and 5 paragraphs. Also try to match the style of the letter with that of your CV by using the same font and a similar style of writing. Personalise Always try to address the letter to the specific person at the company this may involve calling the company and asking for their name. Content First, state the job title of the role you are applying for and how you heard about the opportunity, before listing the documents you have enclosed (CV). Second, your covering letter should always be tailored to the specific role - so outline why you are interested in the role and working for the organisation. This shows potential employers that you have researched the role, organisation and industry effectively. Third, highlight your key qualifications, skills and experiences over the next two paragraphs. Remember to relate these back to the skills requirements for the job and use keywords from the job advert. Finally, positively conclude the letter by maintaining you enthusiasm for the position and expressing your interest in discussing your application further at interview. Presentation Remember to avoid long paragraphs and check your spelling / grammar before you even think about submitting your application. Don t rely on the computer spellchecker - it lies! Submission There is a trend towards submissions in the current job market so CVs should be sent as attachments while covering letters are included in the main body of the . For more information on covering letters visit the National Careers Service website: /cvs/pages/writeacoveringlett er.aspx 22

23 APPLICATION FORMS Employers get numerous applications but there are some things you can do to ensure that you stand out from the crowd Employers use application forms to assess your motivation and skills. The questions are designed to assess specific attributes so remember to answer all the questions. It is not good enough to just slip in a copy of your CV and ask them to refer to it. Where do I start? The key to filling in an application form is reading everything before you start; the job description, personal specification and the guidance. Additionally, make sure you do your own research on the organisation and the job role. From here you can identify the relevant skills and experiences which are going to convince the reader you are the person for the job by promoting your relevant qualities. What questions will I be asked? Application form questions tend to focus on: How your education and work experience relate to their vacancy Why you want that particular job role / or to work in the property industry Examples of your skills that are relevant the job role The personal statement Most application forms give you the opportunity to express why you are the best person for the job. To cover all the bases, use the personal specification document to provide subheadings under which you can emphasise particular skills or experiences in a clear and concise manner. References If your application form asks you for referees, make sure you ask them first, and try to use the most appropriate people to match the job you are applying for. Practice makes perfect Always print off a few extra blank copies of the application form so you can practice your answers to the questions. This involves including all the information you need to within the word limit (or box), so avoid information that the employer hasn t requested. Common Mistakes Poor spelling and grammar Not answering the question Underselling yourself Not seeking feedback Not outlining relevant skills 23

24 MAKE A GOOD IMPRESSION Having an interview can be a daunting process here is some advice designed to ease the pressure of the process Before the Interview Preparation is the key to a successful interview so you should research your potential employer by reviewing their websites for key facts that you can refer to in your interview. Take a good look at your copy of the job specification and identify examples of how your skills match their requirements. You can then anticipate the types of questions you are likely to be asked and practice answers that highlight your skills, background and qualifications so you really sell yourself at interview. Finally, ensure you can make a good first impression by planning your journey so you will arrive a few minutes early and planning what you will wear to match the culture of the company. Start of the Interview Be aware of your body language: Give your interviewer a firm and confident handshake Sit properly Maintain eye contact Don t fidget Remember to smile During the Interview An interview is a two way process, not only are you being interviewed to assess your suitability for the role, but it is also a chance for you to understand if the role is right for you. Show interest in what the interviewer tells you about the company. When asked, deliver your prepared answers to the questions as rehearsed and if you don t understand a question remember that it is OK to say so or ask for some time to think about it. THE IMPORTANCE OF ASKING QUESTIONS AT INTERVIEW Asking the right questions during interview could be the difference between being employed or being on job seekers allowance. By asking questions you demonstrate your interest and depth of knowledge about the job as well as your general level of intelligence. The more senior the position you are seeking, the more complex the questions must be. Some questions you may want to ask at interview include: Will I be working in a team? If so, who will I be working with? What do you like best about working for this organisation? What types of training opportunities can you offer? Please can you tell me how the role relates to the overall structure of the organisation? In what way is performance measured and reviewed? 24

25 CLEANING PEOPLE 25

26 CASE STUDY Name: Jacqueline Job Role: Cleaning Supervisor Employed: Spectrum Services Solutions Ltd Jacqueline is employed by Spectrum Services Solutions Ltd and has recently been promoted to supervisor. Prior to working in the cleaning industry she was employed on a temporary contract at a health food store. Her duties range from cleaning toilets, kitchens, offices and boardrooms to general administrative duties like ordering cleaning stock. The best thing about this job is that I know what I m doing. The money is quite good and more importantly the work was really interesting - I really enjoy the administration aspect of the work because I ve had jobs like that in the past so it s second nature to me. In Jacqueline s experience, confidence, problem solving skills, communication skills, organisational skills and the ability to management workloads help to make a good cleaning supervisor. Jacqueline strongly believes in taking advantage of any opportunity to undertake training and would encourage anyone to try a career in cleaning. If there s a training programme out there do it! It could be your only chance to get a job. 26

27 CASE STUDY Name: Jasmine Job Role: Cleaning Services Manager Employed: Ceredigion County Council Jasmine has been employed as the cleaning services manager at Ceredigion County Council for 16 years. In her current role, Jasmine is responsible for 150 staff providing cleaning services to schools, offices, public conveniences, libraries, day centres, leisure centres and even the paddling pool on the promenade. I absolutely love my work; it s a joy to go to work every day. The variety is immense and challenging as one minute I can be discussing cleaning issues with the heads of governing bodies and the next I can be appointing staff or discussing washroom design with architects it s a job that really keeps me on my toes. It s this variety that I enjoy most it s extremely satisfying to solve a problem for a head department or building manager. I believe the most challenging aspect of the job is the low public opinion of a career in cleaning. It has always been seen as a Cinderella service so I strive to raise the profile of cleaners and cleaning issues. Her advice for anyone interested in taking a similar career route is You lucky, lucky people grab the opportunity with both hands, the world is your oyster. Get as much experience as you can, get qualified because an education is always an asset and, above all else, enjoy the challenge. 27

28 FURTHER INFORMATION 28

29 DIRECTORY: PROFESSIONAL BODIES The British Cleaning Council (BCC) org The British Institute of Cleaning Science (BICSc) The Cleaning and Support Services Associations (CSSA) BCC provides a forum for members to meet and work together to raise the profile of the cleaning industry. To achieve this, BCC promotes and encourages improvements in cleaning standards with regards to health and hygiene through activities like the Cleaning Show. They also provide information on industry statistics, health and safety regulations, a glossary of cleaning terms and sustainability trends in the industry. BICSc is the largest independent professional and educational body within the cleaning industry. It aims to raise standards of education and building awareness through professional standards and accredited training. BICSc offers a range of training courses and assessment schemes designed to meet the needs of all types of businesses. They also offer a range of training aids, manuals and books. CSSA is a cleaning trade association that aims to promote professionalism in the industry through training and development. They believe this will strengthen the competitiveness and profitability of their members so that they can impress customers and enlarge the market for contract cleaning and support services. They provide regular updates on issues and events that could affect the industry. 29

30 DIRECTORY: AWARDING BODIES The British Institute of Cleaning Science (BICSc) EDEXCEL BICSc is an awarding body for qualifications in cleaning. These qualifications are often taken alongside NVQs and cover topic including proficiency, food premises cleaning and supervisory skills. City & Guilds City & Guilds is an awarding body for qualifications in cleaning. These qualifications are designed for cleaning operatives at Levels 1 and 2, and cleaning supervisors at Level 3. EDEXCEL is an awarding body for qualifications in cleaning. These qualifications are designed for cleaning operatives at Levels 1 and 2, and cleaning supervisors at Level 3. SQA SQA is the awarding body for qualifications in Scotland. Cleaning and support services qualifications in Scotland are available at Levels 1 and 2 to improve the skills of cleaning operatives. ABOUT ASSET SKILLS Asset Skills is one of 21 Sector skills Councils (SSCs) licensed by Government. It works with industry to ensure occupational standards are up-to-date and relevant. These standards are then used as the basis for the development of new qualifications and apprenticeships. Asset Skills covers facilities management, housing, property and planning, cleaning and parking. Businesses in these industries share the goal of ensuring the environment in which we work, live and play is developed, managed and maintained to the benefit of all. To find out more on careers, qualifications and training contact: Tel: info@assetskills.org 30

31 DIRECTORY: CAREERS INFORMATION Milk Round Careers Advice Websites Careers Box Career Player Careers Service NI Careers Wales Connexions Find Your Way Graduate Talent Pool ICould National Apprenticeships Service National Careers Service Open University Prospects Russell Group Skills Development Agency (Scotland) Networking Facebook LinkedIn Learn Direct 31

32 Tel: