You can be successful in dusting and scrubbing. In the United States alone, the cleaning industry has created 2.3 million jobs as of 2016, and that figure is set to grow by 10% in the next decade. With this much potential and a low cost of entry, it’s no wonder this sector is piquing the interest of many entrepreneurs.
The question remains, though: How can one “make it” in this industry? Gleaning from professional cleaning services, here five ways to achieve success:
Focus on Service Quality
First, your business has to provide top-notch services. Deliver what you promise or better yet, exceed your customers’ expectations. It doesn’t matter if you’re cleaning a one-bedroom apartment or an office; what matters is that you’re making sure everything is spotless once you’re done. Create systems for every process, be it cleaning, laundry, or customer service. Most importantly, treat your customers’ properties and belongings with the utmost care.
Build Your Network
Word of mouth and digital marketing are great, but your cleaning business will reach greater heights when you have an excellent network. Attend events where you can meet your fellow entrepreneurs and dream customers. Join online groups that cater to your niche. Put yourself and your brand out there in your local area and its surrounds. Exerting effort in establishing a network gives you greater access to not just clients but also people who can help push your company forward.
Various associations can help different facets of your business, be it about marketing, management, or day-to-day operations. There are also agencies (both state and federal) that provide information and other forms of support to small businesses.
Monitor Costs
Although it doesn’t cost much to start your own cleaning business, you have to pay attention to your operating costs. Your single most significant expense would be labor, so make sure you’re always on top of it. You also have to look at the bigger picture: the economy. You may be able to pass along some costs when prices skyrocket, but make sure you have plans in place in case the market moves toward a different direction.
Take Care of Your Employees
Your employees are the reason your business exists. The quality of their performance speaks directly to your company’s reputation. You want your personnel to be consistent in delivering excellent quality service so that all customers end up satisfied. Train them properly, give them opportunities to improve, treat them respectfully, and avoid micromanaging them. Incentives also go a long way in keeping employees happy and well-performing.
Continue to Learn
Just because cleaning is a relatively simple industry doesn’t mean you can kick back and relax once everything is smooth sailing. It pays to have an ever-present drive for learning. There are technological advancements that can affect your equipment and processes, not to mention safety guidelines and requirements for your cleaning materials. There’s also always room for improvement when it comes to managerial and organizational skills.
If you make the right calls and bear these things in mind, there’s no doubt about it—you can find success in scrubbing.
