The Surprising Power of People in Facilities Management

In this episode of Connected FM, we dive into the "power of people" with Kati Barklund, Global Chair of IFMA’s Workplace Evolutionaries. Kati shares her insights on why the "one size fits all" approach to workplace design is failing and how facility managers can create high-performing environments by balancing physical, digital, and psychosocial needs. From navigating C-suite perceptions to the importance of being your authentic self in leadership, this conversation redefines what it means to lead in the modern built environment. Timestamps: 0:00 – Introduction 2:30 – Defining the "Power of People" in the workplace 4:15 – Why "One Size Fits All" doesn't work for modern employees 6:30 – Creating a holistic human experience: Work vs. Life 11:15 – Changing the C-suite perception of FM from cost to value 14:30 – Learning to speak "C-Suite Language" 19:15 – The role of digital tools in maintaining physical connections 22:45 – The importance of authentic leadership and self-worth 30:30 – Overcoming isolation through the IFMA community 33:30 – How to get involved with Workplace Evolutionaries 39:30 – Quick-fire questions: Leadership habits and inspirations Resources & Links: IFMA Workplace Evolutionaries Kati Barklund on LinkedIn Connect with Us:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ifmaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFacilityManagementAssociation/Twitter: https://twitter.com/IFMAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ifma_hq/YouTube: https://youtube.com/ifmaglobalVisit us at https://ifma.org