Launching and developing a new residential or commercial cleaning business requires significant effort, commitment, and, most importantly, a steady stream of customers.
Securing your position in the market and establishing a solid reputation are crucial, but excellent service and quality work alone aren’t sufficient.
Conducting a bit of research and putting in some groundwork can simplify the process of building a robust client base and provide new ideas you may not have considered.
There are numerous methods to attract customers when starting out, but it’s equally important to focus on continuous growth. Here are several strategies to acquire customers and promote your business.
You can also check out our video, “How to Grow a Cleaning Business The Right Way,” for expert advice in action.
1. Improve your networking skills
The core of any business lies in having a robust network, whether you’re interacting with suppliers, clients, or your accountant. Most of your workday is centered around people.
Even when networking with individuals who may not become customers, making a positive impression can significantly contribute to gaining referral business.
Building connections through networking fosters business growth, but finding the right setting or situation can sometimes be challenging. Consider these approaches:
- Attend trade shows: Trade shows provide an excellent opportunity to meet clients and fellow business owners. Renting a booth to showcase your products and cleaning services can be beneficial. Attract attention by offering a contest for a free cleaning package—you might enjoy the experience as well!
- Join a community association: Numerous associations exist in every community, and joining one is an excellent way to meet people. Many communities have associations specifically for businesses and business owners. Membership in these associations opens up new avenues for promoting your cleaning business and helps you stay informed about your community.
- Go to community events: Community events present great business opportunities. Volunteering or contributing can enhance your reputation, help your community, and provide cost-effective advertising. Every event needs cleaners, so if you have spare time, wear your company t-shirt and lend a hand!
2. Set up a referral program
Major corporations have understood the value of customer referral programs for quite some time. This strategy can benefit various industries, including cleaning, landscaping, and software development. Offering discounts or complimentary services in exchange for referrals may seem costly initially, but it proves to be an effective long-term investment in expanding your clientele. Word-of-mouth advertising remains one of the most powerful marketing tools for businesses, highlighting the importance of leveraging satisfied customers to attract new business.
To monitor referred clients, you might think about using a client manager, also known as a CRM. Label clients in your field service management software to identify if they were referred or came from another source. This allows you to oversee, handle, and respond to leads effectively, leading to faster job closures and business expansion.
3. Canvas in your community
While it may not seem like the most exciting activity, door knocking can effectively promote your business and generate new clients. By engaging in face-to-face interactions, you can make a memorable impression. Evening canvassing ensures homeowners are available, but respect their privacy if they decline conversation. Leave a cleaning flyer for absent residents, ensuring your contact details are readily available for future reference. Consider including a discount offer to entice potential customers.
4. Build partnerships with other businesses
Establishing collaborations with fellow service providers presents an excellent opportunity to cultivate mutually advantageous business ties. For instance, a window cleaning enterprise may recommend your services to its clientele, reciprocally, you can extend the same courtesy. Additional viable options include partnering with carpet cleaning firms, landscaping enterprises, and childcare agencies, among others.
Apart from recommendations, collaborating with other businesses can enhance your service’s worth to clients. This spares them the hassle of sourcing and engaging separate service providers. Your endorsement of partner companies instills confidence, offering peace of mind to customers. Ensure you’re assured of the excellence of your partners’ services.
5. Encourage word of mouth
This point is worth emphasizing. The most cost-effective advertising method involves having others promote your business. Although it may seem improbable, successful companies consistently achieve this. The key is sparking conversations. However, topics like “local cleaning services” and the “best maids in town” aren’t common dinner discussions. So, how can you generate excitement about your business? Firstly, prioritize delivering top-notch service. Ensure clients aren’t merely satisfied but thoroughly impressed. Additionally, strive to exceed expectations by fostering genuine connections with clients after completing the job to ensure their satisfaction.
6. Ensure top-level security
In the cleaning industry, it’s common for your team to work independently at clients’ locations. This can cause anxiety for clients, so taking steps to ensure their safety sets you apart. Conduct background checks on all team members and prospective hires, and communicate this to clients. Consider offering a written personal guarantee. At Jobber, we handle sensitive data daily, maintaining security standards equivalent to online banking. This reassures our customers and, in turn, their clients feel secure.
Ensure to stay in touch with your new connections by reaching out via phone or email. Persistence is key; don’t hesitate to follow up multiple times. While recipients may be occupied initially, maintaining contact ensures they remember you when they require your services. Consistent communication keeps you at the forefront of their thoughts, increasing the likelihood of future collaborations.
