Last Updated on April 24, 2021 by Guest
Starting a cleaning business is one of the excellent ways to fulfill your dream of becoming an entrepreneur.
For one, many households and companies are looking for a reliable cleaning and maintenance partner. Second, it has a low overhead cost and up-front cost. However, this will depend on the kind of cleaning service you would like to offer.
- Commercial cleaning. Also known as janitorial services, it is providing cleaning services to commercial establishments.
- Residential cleaning. This type of cleaning is associated with private homes or residential apartments.
- Special cleaning. This type of service caters to special services such as dry cleaning.
Once you determine which type of service you would like to provide, the next step is to acquire the right equipment and necessary permit. And then you have to promote your business so you can start providing your professional cleaning services.
But if you want to learn the nitty-gritty of starting a cleaning company, here are six business tips that you need to keep in mind:
1. Do your research
Before you can make a decision, whether it’s choosing a niche or planning on offering your services, you need to do your research.
Many new businesses often make a mistake in trying a new business venture without doing proper research.
They would later wonder what went wrong or why did they fail. That said, they likely skipped the research phase. So, don’t be that person. Diligently do your research before blindly trying on a new venture.
2. Know your competitors
The next thing that you need to know is to research your competition. What’s currently the ongoing rate for cleaning services in your area?
Will you be charging like the steady rate, or will you go a little lower? Although you might instinctively decide to lower prices, you still need to be cautious. The start-up costs for cleaning businesses are relatively lower. Costs such as driving to a new location and gas are also significant factors.
Moreover, even though it’s apparent that one should research their competition, many people often skip this step. Look up other cleaning businesses out there. Call them and ask questions about the pricing, the services they offer, the time spent on cleaning, and transportation options.
Another thing you should check is the residential properties or offices in your area. Ask them what cleaning companies they work with. Are they happy with the work? Can you offer them at a much lower price?
3. Accomplish legal requirements
Before launching your cleaning business, you first need to decide what type of business structure you’d like to have.
Then you need to register the name of your business with the office of the local register of deeds if you’re registering as a sole proprietorship. But if you’re applying for an LLC, you need to head the Secretary of State office.
If you’re starting and have no new employees yet, you can opt for a sole proprietorship.
Suppose you’re planning to hire employees or don’t want to associate your social security number with your taxes. In that case, you should obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS.
Then, you might want to check with your local town or county if there are any licensing or zoning permit requirements for your business.
4. Develop your marketing strategy
Any business relies on client acquisition, whether it is through advertisements or referrals. Regardless, developing a robust online marketing strategy can come in handy.
For one, it ensures that you can establish your cleaning company’s online presence. If your company isn’t found online in this highly digital age, you’re not considered reliable. That’s because clients will think that you are stuck in the dark ages.
Clients (whether old or new) should still find you online. Even if you don’t have a website, you still need to have some digital footprint out there.
Create social media pages on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. Then, make sure that you update your contact information. You might also need your beliefs, mission statements, what products you’re using, and glowing customer reviews.
A lot of people only want to work with businesses that have an online presence. So, make sure that your cleaning business is one of them.
You might also want to create a professional email address. That way, you can have this professional platform as a means to communicate with clients.
5. Invest in quality tools
At Maid Sailors Hoboken Cleaning Service, we believe in investing in the best cleaning equipment and products. Buying cheap cleaning products will only make us spend more money in the long run. That’s because we’ll need to replace them often.
On the other hand, using high-quality tools and materials will benefit a cleaning business over time.
For instance, using non-toxic and eco-friendly products is ideal for cleaning home furniture. That’s because it doesn’t leave any irritating fumes and smells later on. These are also safer and healthier alternatives both for professional cleaners and your clients.
Luckily, knowing the latest in cleaning is straightforward. All you need is to be on the lookout for new cleaning products and tools available in the malls.
6. Treat employees well
Employees are the key to your business’ success. For your cleaning business to stand out, you should have the best team at your disposal.
Here is one of the best ways you can encourage employees to stay with you:
- Spend a significant amount of time training them. Show them how to clean appropriately windows, sinks, and so much more.
- Don’t micromanage your employees. Instead, trust and respect them.
- Offer perks such as paid sick and vacation leaves to those who have proven their loyalty to your company.
- Give bonuses to quality work.
Final Thoughts
Starting a cleaning business can be one of the most intelligent decisions you will ever make. That’s because no one wants to live or work in a messy and uncluttered space. Hence, there will be continuous demand for professional cleaners.
Of course, nothing beats hard work and dedication for your venture to earn significant profits in the long run. Good luck!