By Leslie Campos of WellParents.com
Introduction
A home services company is a good choice if you are ready to start working for yourself. Cleaning service operations offer an excellent opportunity to become an entrepreneur quickly with no formal training requirements and minimal up-front expenses. With a strong work ethic, a cleaning business can be a lucrative endeavor. The experts at Confessions of a Cleaning Lady weigh in.
Write a Business Plan
The first step to venturing out on your own is putting everything down on paper. Describe your new company in detail and identify your goals. Include how you will structure your business, where you will provide services, and what funding sources you will require.
Determine the characteristics of your ideal customer, the value your company will offer, and how you will connect with them through marketing efforts. Document your pricing, budget, and financial projections. Decide if you will work out of your home or a store location and determine the number of employees you need for a successful operation.
Gain Experience
If this is your first time cleaning houses, consider getting valuable experience and mentorship by working for a local company first. Doing so enables you to understand the intricacies of the job, learn the ropes and earn money to fund your business plans. Having professional training also helps you land clients when you open your company.
Creating an Updated Resume
Now that you’ve gained some experience in professional cleaning, it’s time to update your resume to detail your skills and experience for potential clients. When you search for an online tool to create a new resume, this free resume maker may help. It allows you to create a stellar resume by using an online template, complete with a library of professionally designed resume templates with the option of personalizing with your own copy, photos, and colors.
Secure Funding
After defining your startup costs, choose how you will finance your venture. Starting small and expanding as your revenue grows helps avoid debt. Consider borrowing from a friend or family member or taking out a business loan. Cleaning service companies can typically get off the ground with comparatively low expenditures.
Get a Business License
Make sure you research and understand your state and county rules before providing cleaning services to clients. Apply for a business license at the local city or county clerk’s office. Ensure that you register your company in each community you plan to serve.
Obtain Insurance
Protect your assets and employees by getting the right insurance coverage. Review different business insurance policies to determine which is best for your needs and risks. At a minimum, you will require a general liability insurance program to safeguard you from property damage and injury claims. You will also want commercial automobile coverage if you plan to have company-owned vehicles.
Utilize Technology
A successful cleaning company depends on more than cleaning products. Setting up task management software helps you stay organized and handle client needs efficiently. Scheduling and messaging apps streamline customer communications, ensuring you provide excellent service.
Find Clients
Begin by asking friends and family if they require cleaning services or can recommend you to people who do. WebFX suggests creating a website and getting the word out by placing online ads with search engines or social networks. Once you have happy customers, ask them to post reviews online or offer a referral discount.
Network in the Community
Access resources to connect with local businesses that do not directly compete with your company. Work together to promote and support each other. Participate in community events to stay visible and inform people about your services. Consider providing free cleaning services as a raffle prize at fundraising events. One study by Cone Communications found that 82% of consumers consider a company’s community involvement when choosing where to spend their money.
A cleaning service company offers many benefits for new entrepreneurs. You can get your operation up and running without extensive startup expenses. With planning, dedication, an updated resume, and consistent performance, you can quickly start and grow a thriving new business.