Running a Cleaning Business Archives

How To Get Your Prospects To Say “Yes”

August 8, 2017 by Lisa Macqueen 8 Comments

How To Get Your Prospects to Say “Yes”

YES…

We all want to hear that from our prospects….

If you’ve been wondering how to get your prospects to say “YES”, today’s video is EXACTLY what you need to watch.

But fair warning….

Some cleaning business owners will not like it…

Simply because it talks about the fact that having the “best cleaning skills” in town, is slowly becoming LESS (and less) of a factor in cleaning business’ success…

And, many owners who obsess over their “cleaning skills”…

…but neglect their PEOPLE skills…

…simply won’t agree.

Which is great!

(For the rest of us ;-))

It’s another video that I created for what I call the “new-age” Cleaning Business Owner (CBO) Entrepreneur…

The CBO’s who represent what I believe to be the “change makers” in the Cleaning industry today…

The ones who recognize that FINALLY (“AT LAST!”), the cleaning business is moving towards a place where the smaller, “under-dog” CBO’s can WIN by offering a better quality of customer service and REAL care….

….AND by understanding that people buy from people they know, like and TRUST.

Look, you need great cleaning staff, – of course you do – but these days, people want more…

In the 21st century, they expect more.

So, you gotta’ give them more to make them happy.

Makes sense, don’t you think??

So, go and check out today’s video, and discover How To Get Your Prospects To Say “Yes” & be sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel, give me a thumbs up and please leave me a comment – I read and reply to every comment, and I’d love to hear your thoughts on this important subject…

Click Here to Watch Video and be sure to stay until the end, when Lisa offers a great free gift…

Would You Like Me To Help You Grow Your Business?

Best-selling author, speaker, business coach, Infusionsoft Ultimate Marketer and Small Business ICON Award Winner, – Lisa Macqueen knows how to use strong management skills, smart marketing strategies, systems and Infusionsoft automation to help cleaning business owners around the world succeed.

As a cleaning business owner herself, Lisa took her husbands’ ‘average’ cleaning company and turned it into a multi-million dollar international empire in a little over 2 years, and is now in hot demand as a cleaning business coach, speaker, and mentor.

Lisa was recently named as one of “America’s Premier Experts” and appeared on the Brian Tracy Show on CBS and NBC & FOX Affiliates in the US, and also co-authored a book with Brian Tracy, Power Principles for Success which reached best-seller status in two Amazon.com categories.

While many people frequently call her the “Queen of Cleaning” and the “Automation Queen” she will be the first to say that what she really helps cleaning business owners with, is teaching them how to run a cleaning business with a combination of tough love, great systems and strong marketing strategies that actually work for cleaning businesses…

If you’re serious about your cleaning business and would like to get to the next level, Lisa can help you get there.

Click here to schedule a free 30 minute discovery call with Lisa.

Follow Lisa on Facebook, Linked In, YouTube or Twitter.

How To Onboard New Cleaning Clients (For A More Profitable Cleaning Business)

June 7, 2017 by Lisa Macqueen 3 Comments

How Do You Welcome New Clients To Your Cleaning Business?

So, you’ve landed a new cleaning client, they’ve signed the paperwork, and everyone’s ready to start that lovely new cleaning job. Are you missing one crucial piece of the sales puzzle? Do you know how to onboard new cleaning clients for a more profitable cleaning business?

Why Is Good On-Boarding So Important?

In the cleaning industry, having a solid process for new customer on-boarding, is absolutely essential.

It’s how you take a visitor on their journey from your websites’ home page, through to signing up for your services, delivering with the “wow” factor on the first clean, and, continuing to add value to their lives at every service.

Because, when you do THIS right, it can help you keep your clients longer.

In today’s video, I’m sharing 7 on-boarding best practices that will get your relationship with your new client off on the right foot. With these tips, you’ll learn how to deliver value early, and retain your new client profitably for years to come. To view, click the image below..

What are the benefits of client on-boarding?

Imagine this: you’re talking to a prospective new client. You do everything right – you listen to their needs, build rapport, and build trust. Then, you present your proposal and close the deal.

So far, so good right?

Then comes the time to get their job started, and so you send them an email:

“Dear David,

Thanks for choosing ABC Cleaning company and signing our contract! I’d like to introduce you to Amanda who is now in charge of your account.

She’ll take care of you from here on ok? All the best,”

Imagine how David feels now? A little like he’s been brushed by you and then pushed onto someone new who he doesn’t know or trust. He has no idea what to expect from this new person, and all of a sudden, he’s lost confidence in your cleaning business, and you haven’t even started the job yet! He’s off to a less-than-stellar start with your company (which is not a good start for you or him..)

Here’s what a good client on-boarding process can do:

How Do You Welcome New Clients Into Your Cleaning Business?

Removes confusion or doubts. Your clients know exactly what’s happening. What they’re getting (because you have provided them with a detailed specification). They know who they’ll be liaising with in your Company, they understand how it will all come together when you begin the job, and they know that you know, what their expectations are.
New Clients Who Are Happy With Their Cleaning Services

Builds trust. The more a client trusts you, the less likely they are to micromanage every detail of their cleaning service agreement with your company.
Removes buyer’s remorse. They will feel cared for, appreciated and understood. They won’t be second guessing themselves wondering if they should have gone with ‘the other guys’. instead, they’ll be happier with their decision to hire your cleaning company. This can only increase retention and referrals.
Establishes the benchmark. Ask your client, “Tell me in one sentence, what does success with your cleaning service look like – how will you know that we’re doing a great job?” This question really helps to identify key areas that they pay attention to, and it shows your new client that your business is ‘tuned in’ to excellence..

Introduce Clients to the tools you use to manage their job. Do you use a site management software like Swept, or Cleantelligent? Or perhaps a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system like Infusionsoft, AWeber or Ontraport?

If so, you’ll need to introduce your clients to these tools so that they understand how to use them (if applicable). With the CRM system, it’s imperative that your clients understand that this is how you will communicate with them electronically, and so it is vital they don’t unsubscribe to your emails.

Now that you know how important it is to onboard new cleaning clients, click here to watch the video and learn how to bring on new clients – the right way.

Tell me how you on-board new clients into your cleaning business…

Share as much detail as possible in your reply. Thousands of incredible cleaning business owners come here for insight and inspiration and your words may be exactly what someone else needs to hear to move ahead in their business journey..

Important: share your thoughts and ideas directly in the comments. (Links to other posts, videos, etc. will be deleted as they come across as spammy).

👍 Like if you agree, comment below and share this with someone to help them achieve their cleaning business goals.

TODAY’S QUOTE:

“Action springs not from thought, but from a readiness for responsibility”. Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Lisa x

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Want to know more about us – check us out here.

Cleaning Marketer works exclusively with cleaning businesses to help them attract more prospects, make more sales, and keep their clients longer.

PS A FREE REPORT FOR YOU: “How To Get Cleaning Clients Even If You’re Brand New To The Cleaning Industry”

Go Grab Your Free Copy By Clicking On This Link: Here

Want fast access to great information to help you build and grow your cleaning business? Go ‘Like’ us on Facebook or hit the ‘Subscribe’ Button on You Tube.

9 Word Email That Will Get Your Phone Ringing With New Clients Today

May 30, 2017 by Lisa Macqueen Leave a Comment

9 Simple Words That Will Get Your Phone Ringing

Ah, customers. For some of us in the cleaning industry, attracting new customers is what we do day in and day out. For others the fear of trying to attract new customers can feel SO big and SO crushing that it shuts us down completely from actually doing any prospecting at all.

Prospecting, whether by direct mail, telephone, cold calling – whatever your preferred method is, can be time consuming and battering to the ego…

No-one, likes to be told ‘no’ all day long…

Sometimes the things we want to do the least, we need to do the most

Here’s the thing though, we often give up WAY too early. According to Forrester Research, “Companies that nurture leads make 50% more sales at a cost 33% lower than non-nurtured leads.”

If you’ve been part of the Cleaning Marketer community for any length of time, you’ll know that we regularly discuss follow up and how important it is to growing a cleaning business. If you’re new here, welcome, you can check out past blogs on this subject here and here, or head on over to the Cleaning Marketer Blog to check out our other articles.

In today’s video, you’ll learn a great new way to re-engage with your prospects who may have gone a little, shall we say, stale? These prospects you may have followed up a couple of times, and for whatever reason, you didn’t hear back.

You’re going to love this tip…and it will literally take you just minutes to action in your cleaning business.

Now I’d love to hear from you. Reply in the comments below.

How do you personally keep in touch with your prospects – what works well for your cleaning business?

Important: share your thoughts and ideas directly in the comments. Links to other posts, videos, etc. will be deleted as they come across as spammy.

Cleaning isn’t just cleaning. It’s a thriving business full of dedicated and hardworking business owners and entrepreneurs who see the value in investing in their own education, and offering 21st century solutions to their customers.

“To anyone that ever told you you’re no good … They’re no better”. Hayley Williams

Lisa x

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Want to know more about us – check us out here.

Cleaning Marketer works exclusively with cleaning businesses to help them attract more prospects, make more sales, and keep their clients longer.

PS A FREE REPORT FOR YOU: “How To Get Cleaning Clients Even If You’re Brand New To The Cleaning Industry”

Go Grab Your Free Copy By Clicking On This Link: Here

Want fast access to great information to help you build and grow your cleaning business? Go ‘Like’ us on Facebook or hit the ‘Subscribe’ Button on You Tube.

How To Change Your Cleaning Business into a Success (Even If You’ve Made Some Mistakes)

January 16, 2017 by Lisa Macqueen Leave a Comment

Have you ever wondered how to change your cleaning business into a success, even though you know you’ve made some mistakes…?

If you’re anything like most people, you may scroll through your Facebook or Linked In newsfeed and marvel at how amazing and successful everyone is – all the good news they share, the awards, the accolades, the adulation…

Do you ever think about the other option?

What would it look like if your feed was full of bad news, bad decisions, things that didn’t work, awards that they didn’t win…

I was wondering about this myself the other day, and thinking

“Wouldn’t it be cool to learn from other peoples’ mistakes sometimes?”

So, I’m going to share something I’ve NEVER shared with my community before – because this was definitely a mistake…

A big, fat, embarrassing failure.

Back in 2008/09 my husband’s cleaning company, Cleancorp, was starting to do really well, and I thought to myself… well if we’re ‘cleaning up’ (pardon the pun) on Google with one company, imagine how well we’d go if we had 2 cleaning companies on the first page of Google…

How To Change Your Cleaning Business into a Success (Even If You've Made Some Mistakes)

My big, fat failure, The White Lotus Team…

It had to be different of course. Look and sound different, and of course have a different service offering – so after months and months of work, building the website, writing the content and finding just the “right” images (not to mention the considerable expense), The White Lotus Team was born.

This cleaning business was focused on providing green cleaning and (of all things) feng shui services – I wanted to provide services that I thought would make us SO DIFFERENT that no-one would be able to match our offering (I know, right… WHAT ON EARTH was I thinking?!!!).

So, we promoted it with Google Adwords campaigns, and got a big fat zero – week after week. Sure people were hitting the page, but there just weren’t any conversions – you see, I hadn’t gone out to the market and done what I should have done:

A TON OF RESEARCH

Months went by, and I stubbornly tweaked, the copy on the website, changed the images, updated the ads – and literally by this time, had ONLY 2 customers – who incidentally didn’t give a ‘fig’ about the feng shui services, they just wanted a clean office…

Meanwhile, we were still spending a lot of money on Google Adwords. Our ROI (If I’d had the courage to measure it back then…) would have been definitely on the ‘minus’ scale.

And as any small business owner can attest, you’d just can’t afford to waste money – sometimes, you’ve just got to face the truth.

My day of truth came – it was hard, and I felt like a complete failure, but I had to close The White Lotus Team down… ironically, not that much to close, because we only had 2 clients, which we switched to our other (successful) cleaning business :)…

So today’s blog video is for cleaning business owners who have experienced a failure, a disappointment, or perhaps an unfortunate discovery in your cleaning business. You need to watch this video, and once you have, I’d love to hear your feedback. What have you done that you wish you hadn’t in your cleaning business? What are you doing better today than you’ve ever done before..? Leave me your comments below and I promise I read and reply to every one.

Ok, so now you have my confession…. 🙂

Ready to hear what we need to do to recover from our mistakes, and what may be holding you back right now, from success? Here’s how to change your cleaning business.

Click here to watch…

Lisa Macqueen – CEO & Founder, Cleaning Marketer

P.S. If you’re serious about business growth, come join us at Cleaning Marketer – a community where cleaning business owners gain access to information that attracts prospects, makes sales and keeps top clients on their roster. Need a few quick ideas to get you started?

Click here to grab your free copy of “How To Get More New Clients, Even If You’re New To the Industry” ..

Today’s quote:

“One of the main reasons we struggle with insecurity: we’re comparing our behind-the-scenes with everybody else’s highlight reel”. Unknown.

Lisa x

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First time to our blog…? Welcome, it’s great to have you here 🙂 Want to know more about us – check us out here.

Cleaning Marketer works exclusively with cleaning businesses to help them attract more prospects, make more sales, and keep their clients longer.

Want fast business growth? Register for the next Cleaning Business School – Fast Growth Ideas for Cleaning Businesses who want to attract more prospects, make more sales and keep their clients longer.

Prefer a live event in either San Diego or New York City in 2017? Get inspired, empowered and take your market by storm. Book now

PS A FREE REPORT FOR YOU: “How To Get Cleaning Clients Even If You’re Brand New To The Cleaning Industry”

Go Grab Your Free Copy By Clicking On This Link: Here

How to Get New Cleaning Clients – STOP Trying to Figure it Out

January 4, 2017 by Lisa Macqueen Leave a Comment

Okay, so maybe 2016 was a year you’d rather forget in your cleaning business.

When you look back and reflect on the year that was, you feel like your cleaning business just ‘stood still’, sure you managed to grow a little here and there, but it was tough, and you’ve made a promise to yourself that….

….2017 is going to be different.

Why?

Because you can’t do another year like last year (or the year before…)..

Listen to me.

You’re a cleaning business entrepreneur in a relentless search for business success, profit and time freedom.

DO NOT GIVE IN.

You are a producer. You create.

You, the cleaning business owner, take the risks, you lose the sleep, you give up family time in pursuit of growing your enterprise, you suffer disappointment and loss when things inevitably go wrong, you endure the scorn and ridicule of others who are too afraid to take the chances you’re willing to take.

Too afraid to create what you create. Too afraid to build what you build.

You accept 100% of risk, pain, worry, toil and WORK.

Yet, you SHARE in the rewards.

You create jobs. You pay the most taxes. You provide services that HELP people.

Without you, the machine stops.

YOU. ARE. ATLAS

Like Cleaning Business Owners, Atlas Has The World On His Shoulders

WE NEED YOU. DO NOT GIVE IN.

Lisa xx

Here’s How to Get New Cleaning Clients

Tip # 1 – Know your ideal client.

It sounds simple, but identifying the types of clients you prefer to work with is the first step. Because the best client is a recurring one, your target audience should consist of the people who continually rely on your services. Try to be as specific as possible when identifying your ideal client profile. What careers do they have? What neighbourhoods do they live in? What social media sites are they on and where do they hang out so you can find them?

PRO TIP: If you’re reading this thinking “I can clean for anyone” – you’ll miss the mark. Get laser-like focus on who your best client is – and then get your messaging to be addressing their problems, frustrations and concerns – when you do that, they’ll feel like you’re talking to them, you understand them. And that, immediately makes you much more attractive to them…

Tip # 2 – Develop a marketing plan.

Speaking of social media, having an online presence these days is more crucial than ever. Keep your website and social channels up to date. Clearly state what services you cover on all promotional materials to reduce any confusion in advance, and remember that every time you’re putting something up on social media – have your ideal client in mind.

Would they be interested in that photo of a dirty bathroom (my guess is probably not…), but if they were a business, maybe they’d be interested in something related to their business, or a problem an Office Manager might come across during their day – see how that’s different?

BE DIFFERENT.

It’s also helpful to list your company in relevant directories and sites like Google, Bing, Yelp, Yellow Pages, Angie’s List, etc.

PRO-TIP Get a blog happening on your website, start posting regularly, get out there and target your audience!!

Tip # 3 – Remember your current relationships are a jumping off point.

Ask for referrals from current clients that you like doing business with. Chances are, they have similar friends, colleagues, family or other business owners in need of what you provide.

PRO TIP: Make sure you have a system for referral-getting, don’t just use the “hope” marketing strategy for this…. Referrals are an AWESOME way for you to build great relationships with your existing customers (remember to always recognize and thank people for referring you), AND, build your business with more of your Ideal Clients

Tip # 4 – Build credibility and your network.

What’s your strategy for getting regular testimonials (is that crickets I can hear…?)

In the cleaning business, if you don’t ask, you don’t get.

ASK!

And make it easy for them to give you a testimonial. If you send them an email, put in a link to your Facebook page or Linked In, so they don’t have to find it themselves – remember that in the 21st century we now have an attention span of 8.2 seconds.

<<<— Same as this goldfish

So, you have to do all the ‘leg-work’ – make it easy, ask for just 1 or 2 lines, and then, are you ready for this huge piece of advice????

SHARE THAT TESTIMONIAL EVERYWHERE – AND OFTEN

PRO TIP: Are you being a good referrer? If you have business clients, try and make a conscious effort to understand their business, and look for opportunities you can help and promote them to your friends, family and network. You will be AMAZED at how this one strategy will help you build enormous goodwill with your customers.

The final piece of advice may be the most revolutionary. Stay with me. Are you ready?

Tip # 5 – Raise your prices.

It may sound crazy, but sometimes reaching those top tier clients means knowing when to charge more. Obviously make sure that your prices are consistent with the results they can expect first.

Tip # 6 – Articulate your VALUE PROPOSITION

What are you bringing to them that is of value? What are your benefits? HINT: It isn’t that you’ve been in business since the dark ages, it isn’t because you’re a husband and wife team, it isn’t because you have great training, it isn’t about you at all.

IT IS ALWAYS, ALWAYS, ALWAYS ABOUT THEM

Both features and benefits sell. But consider this… no-one cares about how you’re going to do the cleaning, they just want a clean home or business.

So focus the emphasis on the benefits. The benefits close the sale. Why? Because most people buy on emotions. Benefits help bring out emotions in your prospects and then they justify their buying decision using logic.

Bottom line: Clients willing to pay more are the ones who appreciate value & quality – and it’s your job as a cleaning business owner to demonstrate that to them.

Remember, if you charge more, and can clearly outline the VALUE and BENEFITS that your business will bring to their lives, people will perceive you as more valuable, and will be prepared and willing to pay more for your services..

So, What’s your 2017 going to be like? If you’re tired of struggling and going-it-alone, ask yourself this one question:

Are You Ready to Systemize & Streamline Your Cleaning Business in Just 8–Weeks? Learn how to streamline and simplify your cleaning business as well as how to sell and market your business so you can get your LIFE BACK. … If you‘re committed and ready to make a serious change in your life and your business, then Cleaning Business School is exactly where you need to be.

8 x Weekly Video modules, blueprints, checklists, cheat sheets and scripts delivered in an easy-to-understand step-by-step system, PLUS a weekly LIVE GROUP VIDEO CALL with me, where we get to work on your business, so that 2017 can be your best year yet.

Go check out Cleaning Business School here.

Inspirational Quote

“The most basic and powerful way to connect to another person is to listen. Just listen. Perhaps the most important thing we ever give each other is our attention….” Rachel Naomi Remen

Lisa x

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First time to our blog…? Welcome, it’s great to have you here 🙂 Want to know more about us – check us out here.

Cleaning Marketer works exclusively with cleaning businesses to help them attract more prospects, make more sales, and keep their clients longer.

Want fast business growth? Register for the next Cleaning Business School (Starting Jan 2017) – 8 Weeks of Fast Growth Ideas for Cleaning Businesses who want to attract more prospects, make more sales and keep their clients longer.

PS A FREE REPORT FOR YOU: “How To Get Cleaning Clients Even If You’re Brand New To The Cleaning Industry”

Go Grab Your Free Copy By Clicking On This Link: Here

The 10 Best Podcasts & Resources for Cleaning Business Owners

December 13, 2016 by Lisa Macqueen Leave a Comment

Photo Credit: Dayne Topkin

The 10 Best Podcasts & Resources for Cleaning Business Owners

When I was starting out in the cleaning business, all I wanted to do was find other (more successful) cleaning business owners…. it would have been awesome to have had a list of the 10 best podcasts and resources for cleaning business owners back then -:)

I dreamed of hanging out with them… talking about new ideas to attract customers or staff, or just to have a sounding board when I was unsure of something…

It can be really lonely being a cleaning business owner….

My friends weren’t overly entrepreneurial (and a lot weren’t business owners), so they just couldn’t relate to some of the daily issues I was going through as a cleaning business owner. They thought I was crazy to be working so hard in my business….

I needed to find people who ‘got’ me and who I could learn off ….

People who had been where I was, down in the trenches, who had actually grown a cleaning business beyond just a “hobby” and weren’t doing things the old fashioned way…

Are You Still Doing Things The Old Fashioned Way In Your Business?

Photo Credit: Nirzar Pangarkar

I wanted to learn new stuff…

None of the so-called “Gurus” ever talked about cleaning businesses – so I was left to figure things out the long way (read: the hard way)…

I became absolutely driven to learn more about the cleaning industry – and yes, if I’m honest, it became kind of an obsession..

I wanted to understand every possible way that I could make a bigger impact with our customers and our staff.

AND YOU SHOULD TOO……

You see as Cleaning Business Owners, you’re problem solvers and relationship builders.

The thing is though, you’re busy “being” that – right? If you’re like most cleaning business owners, every day you’re facing a different set of challenges.

You know you should be “doing” social media, but have absolutely no idea where to start right? (HINT: Click Here to learn that)

You’d probably love to have a quick “go-to” list of podcasts and resources specifically for cleaning business owners right? How about a community you could interact with?

Sounds good doesn’t it? Not being alone in your business anymore…

You Don't Have To Be Lonely In Your Cleaning Business Anymore

Photo Credit: © kieferpix

So, I curated this cool list for you – in it you’ll find some of the finest podcasts, resources and thought leadership on the cleaning industry, and my prediction:

The cleaning business owners who become “experts” in their area, win. They win better staff and better customers.

And look, there’s no need to feel overwhelmed; it’s quick and easy to press play on a podcast during your morning commute or scan a quick article while your lunch is heating up. And we’ve made it even easier by curating a list of the most crucial ways to stay in-the-know.

The following resources are in no particular order of importance –so whether you like to read, watch or listen to information here goes – just make it your mission to start somewhere!

Top 10 Podcasts and Resources for Cleaning Businesses

Photo Credit: © alexmillos

Here’s Our Top 10 List:

The Quick Talk Podcast hosted by Josh Latimer is dedicated to helping business owners succeed. This episode divulges how to get more cleaning clients and grow quickly with a Power Followup Planning Checklist. New talks are posted every Tuesday and Friday.
Savvy Cleaner is a site dedicated to providing training and certifications for house cleaners. With tips and training services, you’ll be confident that your team is delivering high quality cleaning to your clients.
The first news and information source dedicated solely to the cleaning industry, Cleaning Business Today lists tools, techniques, industry best practices and tricks of the trade in a streamlined environment.
INCLEAN Magazine offers up the latest news and events so you can always be at the forefront of the cleaning community. This is both a print and digital magazine that sends out regular email newsletters as well, so it covers all the bases.
If you believe better communication resolves many of the major challenges in your line of work, Swept’s blog (and their incredible software) may be right for you. Swept is devoted to showing owners how to get the most out of their employees with software that assists with time tracking, scheduling, reporting, instructions and supplies, so you can focus on the bigger picture, (and they just happen to write a killer blog) -:)
Though not directly related to the cleaning business, The Tim Ferriss Show is an incredibly insightful podcast for expanding your reach. Voted iTunes’ Best of 2014 and Best of 2015, this guy knows how to draw the celebrity guests, but more importantly, how to reveal unique bits of business wisdom you can’t find anywhere else.
From dealing with cleaning services to cash flow, the Grow My Cleaning Company podcast covers it. Hosted by Mike Campion you can subscribe on iTunes or Stitcher so you never miss an episode, no matter your schedule
The Cleaning Business Forum on Facebook states that “all cleaning business owners are welcome” to join this group. Focused on giving and receiving advice from fellow owners, this is truly a grassroots way to stay involved and learn from others.
Cleaning Owners is another Facebook group you can join that asks the tough questions while dispensing regular encouragement. This group is especially recommended for those just starting out.
If LinkedIn is more your thing, Growth Strategies for Commercial Cleaning Professionals is the group for you. This discussion is targeted more toward expansion and other advanced topics rather than the challenges that beginning cleaning owners typically face.

UPDATE:

After feedback from my community, it looks like # 9 isn’t a very active Facebook Group – so if you’re in the Maid Service space, go check out the ZenMaid Group on Facebook…

Of course, you’re here on our very own information platform – the Cleaning Marketer Blog and we’re completely focused on helping you achieve your entrepreneurial goals, and shorten your learning curve in the cleaning business.

So be sure to stay connected with us as we cover everything a modern cleaning business owner needs to know – sales and marketing, systems and processes (that actually work for cleaning businesses), how to hire (and sometimes, fire) staff, social media, and the list goes on and on…

In fact. Could you do me a favour?

If there’s an area within your cleaning business where you need help, and you’d like me to either do a video or a blog article on it (or even a free webinar) – I’d be happy to, because chances are it will help you and it will probably help others too….

So, leave a message in the comments section below outlining what you’d like me to cover for you – I read and reply to every message…

Hopefully you’ll find these resources beneficial to your cleaning business. Owning a business is challenging, and you don’t have to feel alone when navigating the murkiness of hiring, managing, meeting service expectations and increasing margins. There are people out there like you who are experiencing similar situations and are making it work for them.

If you’re serious about business growth, come join us at Cleaning Marketer – a community where cleaning business owners gain access to information that attracts prospects, makes sales and keeps top clients on their roster. Need a few quick ideas to get you started?

Click here to grab your free copy of “How To Get More New Clients, Even If You’re New To the Industry” ..

Today’s quote:

“Merely surviving is not the same as truly thriving”. William C Taylor

Lisa x

………………………………………………………………………………………………

First time to our blog…? Welcome, it’s great to have you here 🙂 Want to know more about us – check us out here.

Cleaning Marketer works exclusively with cleaning businesses to help them attract more prospects, make more sales, and keep their clients longer.

Prefer a live event in either San Diego or New York City in 2017? Get inspired, empowered and take your market by storm. Book now

PS A FREE REPORT FOR YOU: “How To Get Cleaning Clients Even If You’re Brand New To The Cleaning Industry”

Go Grab Your Free Copy By Clicking On This Link: Here How To Get More Cleaning Clients, Even If You're New To The Cleaning Industry

7 Cleaning Client On Boarding Mistakes (That Ruin Relationships Before They Start)

November 8, 2016 by Lisa Macqueen Leave a Comment

In the ferociously competitive cleaning industry it can be difficult to make a new sale, and you did it – congratulations… you just won another new client – great work!

However…..

Signed contracts (actually, I don’t like using that term – can we go with ‘paperwork’ instead?) are only half of the cleaning business puzzle, the other half being client retention. There are milestones that happen early on in client onboarding that significantly impact the relationship down the road, and your ability to retain a client for much, much longer.

So, how do you go from that initial hand shake to years-long, steady paperwork renewals?

By avoiding the easy-to-miss mistakes that have been stunting the growth of cleaning businesses. Below are some of these crucial mistakes and how you can avoid them.

You don’t match expectation with service.

During the on boarding meeting, discuss your new customer’s goals and set them beside your company’s deliverables. Ensure your team is up to the task, that the client doesn’t have unreasonable expectations and that everybody knows what they’re getting all within the same meeting. You’ll be saving everyone time.
You haven’t built any rapport.

Creating an authentic connection from the beginning lays the groundwork for continually fostering trust and understanding throughout the business relationship. Plus, a solid foundation keeps clients happy long-term and smoothly covers any unexpected bumps that may appear later.
You don’t have all the information you need to do the job well.

In order to prep your team for success, you need to know all the little details. Create a checklist for initial meetings to confirm you’ve thought of everything. Is there an alarm code for the building? How many sets of keys are involved? Should your team be watering plants as part of the cleaning service? Are there items laying out that shouldn’t be handled? Questions like these will help you help them. Your new client needs to see your value right away, and this step gets you there. The client seeing an immediate, tangible improvement in their environment instills a dramatic, lasting impression.
They don’t have all the information they need.

As you’re probably aware, it works both ways. Are there specific processes a new client needs to understand before your team gets started? Have you talked through process, timeline, schedule, relevant team members? Covering these bases in the onboarding meeting is a game-changer.
You don’t have a system for consistent communication.

Establish a S.Y.S.T.E.M (save yourself some time, energy & money) for emailing, calling and face-to-face meetings so that communication stays open. Having these steps for client interaction in place gives you the opportunity to maintain positive relationships. There should be steps for contacting before the initial meeting and immediately post-meeting, as well as long term follow-up.
You don’t market to your existing clients.

Yes, you read that right. Marketing happens before, during and after a sale – Think of it like this – at the beginning, you’re a problem solver and relationship builder…. Their problem is they need cleaning services… Perfect, that’s just what you specialize in…

Now for the relationship building… Think of this as kind of like a romance… You meet the perfect ‘someone’ who’s looking for great cleaning services… what next?

Well – you gotta flirt a little right? (and no, I don’t mean literally…!) When a new prospect and potential client comes into your sales ‘funnel’ your job is to ‘flirt’ with them – you go and meet with them at their site or residence, you make sure you look sharp, and you’re on time, you listen to them and let them speak more than you…. in essence you’re building a relationship so that they will eventually know, like and trust you…

quote

If you’re in a relationship, you don’t stop the romance right? In fact, to have a long and happy relationship you need to be impressing and romancing them for ever more 🙂 ….

Same thing with your clients – romance them… flirt with them, win them over, and then continue to always show them that you care about them and their business by staying in touch, include thank-you notes, holiday greetings, account reviews, survey cards and testimonial requests, and providing great service….

Give So Much They Can’t Ignore You…

When was the last time you looked at your list of clients and wondered ‘how could I help them grow their business?” You would be shocked at how many of your clients could do with a hand…. Have you lost a client because their business is down? Maybe you know someone who could use their service… remember the Law of Reciprocity… it works!

Click here to grab your free copy of “How To Get More New Clients, Even If You’re New To the Industry” ..

Today’s quote:

Take the time every day to be grateful and thankful for everything you have. You can always have more, but you could also have less. Unknown.

Lisa x

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First time to our blog…? Welcome, it’s great to have you here 🙂 Want to know more about us – check us out here.

Cleaning Marketer works exclusively with cleaning businesses to help them attract more prospects, make more sales, and keep their clients longer.

Want fast business growth? Register for the next Cleaning Business School – 8 Weeks of Fast Growth Ideas for Cleaning Businesses who want to attract more prospects, make more sales and keep their clients longer.

Prefer a live event in either San Diego or New York City in 2017? Get inspired, empowered and take your market by storm. Book now

The Secret Behind All Great Cleaning Businesses

August 2, 2016 by Lisa Macqueen Leave a Comment

How Do You Target Customers?

What’s the secret behind all great cleaning businesses?

The great cleaning businesses have multiple attributes that create their success – they work with a cleaning business coach, they have great people in their Organization, they’re passionate about serving their clients, and they’re dedicated to having outstanding systems and processes. All of these are very high on the list, but another thing this group of cleaning businesses do very well, is that they know how to look for, (and find), their ideal clients.

You see, in today’s economy, success in business is all about search. Get good at search and it changes everything.

Think about it: to build a great database you need a number of contacts, and then need to be able to filter those contacts to the ones that count, based on recent events i.e. when their current contract is up, or when they are moving etc…

Here’s some searches to think about:

Bring up a list of every prospect that you’ve ever provided with a quote for your cleaning services. How many of them have changed their cleaning service since you last spoke? Maybe they’re ready to change right now and just need a call to get the wheels in motion…
Geographic search – Got a great staff member or subcontractor in a certain location? Look at your prospect list –who do you know in that area who might be looking for a great new cleaner?
Find your top 100 clients, based on those that have done multiple transactions with you, or those that refer you the most.
Create your ‘dream list’ of clients you’d like to work with and start building up a relationship with them on social media – start following them, liking, sharing or commenting on their posts…
Of course, search can also include using Google Adwords and/or Facebook and buying ads to advertise your business. These are very effective also, but remember, there are costs involved in setting up and then having your ads displayed… and, if you’re targeting isn’t done right, it could end up costing you a lot of money for very little return on your investment..

The secret is finding the right list to call at the right time, because being relevant wins.

So how can you do that easily?

If you have a cleaning business coach, have the conversation with them – what do they recommend? Here at Cleaning Marketer, we’re totally focussed on having cleaning business automation to handle all of the ‘heavy lifting’ with prospecting that will handle this process for you and keep you ‘in front’ of your ideal prospects on a regular basis, and save you a lot of time without the headache of having to ‘figure it all out’ by yourself..

Are you a great cleaning business? What’s been the number # 1 secret to your success..? I’d love to hear from you in the comments below..

Today’s quote:

Even great people need constant opportunities for improvement. Thomas Crosby

Lisa x

………………………………………………………………………………………………

First time to our blog…? Welcome, it’s great to have you here 🙂 Want to know more about us – check us out here.

Cleaning Marketer works exclusively with cleaning businesses to help them attract more prospects, make more sales, and keep their clients longer.

Want fast business growth? Register for Cleaning Business School – 4 Weeks of Fast Growth Ideas for Cleaning Businesses who want to attract more prospects, make more sales and keep their clients longer.

Prefer a live event in either San Diego or New York City? Get inspired, empowered and take your market by storm. Book now.

8 Tips on How to Make Your Boss (and team) Respect You

July 25, 2016 by Lisa Macqueen Leave a Comment

What’s the team culture like in your business?

What are the 8 Tips on How to Make Your Boss (and team) Respect You? Now before you start thinking… “you can’t make people respect you – respect is earned” (which it most definitely is and I wholeheartedly agree with you), hear me out for a minute…

As a cleaning business coach, one of the first conversations I have with new clients is this: “Have you ever wondered how your team (or boss) views your performance at work? I’m not talking about your annual performance review here, but how they actually think about you as a member of the organization? In other words, do they look at you as someone who dreams big and get’s things done, or do they look at you as someone who just turns up, does what you have to, and leaves….?

Let’s face it, no-one goes to work wanting to do a bad job right? Most of us want our boss or our team to think we’re easy to work with, or efficient, or an asset to the business, so today, let’s look at what we can do, to make that happen…

# 1. What Value Are You Bringing?

Look at how you add value to the business. Are you bringing great new ideas on how things can be improved in your department or the business as a whole… (I heard a great quote from Sally Hogshead, “If you’re not adding value, you’re just taking up space”. Don’t take up space in the business.

# 2. Ask For Feedback

Make it easy to give you feedback without the drama that can sometimes be associated. What I mean by that is, ask questions like, “Should I handle that differently next time?” or, “How would you have done that better?” The point here is to look at it as a great opportunity to get real feedback that will help you become an even better member of the team (as well as their boss).

# 3. Don’t Get Frustrated Easily

I once worked with a woman whose frustration threshold was so low, she had the entire office (and business) on red alert constantly. It was counter-productive and damaging to the morale, and although she was an incredible asset in some ways, eventually, we had to let her go because we just couldn’t endure working with her a minute longer – she was, quite literally, punishing…

What we learnt from that experience was huge.

Your company culture is something that must be protected, and if you have a team member who is not in alignment with your company’s purpose, values, and mission, well, it’s better to make a change sooner rather than later. Remember, in an office, residential or strata cleaning business, company culture is critical to success.

# 4. Don’t Overshare

Communication is great, but please don’t overshare. If you’re cc-ing people in on everything you’re doing in the hope of getting extra credits, please stop that right now. People are busy so just share with them what they need to be consulted on, to approve, or informed about. As a rule of thumb – if you’re unsure, just ask..

# 5. Don’t Schedule Too Many Meetings

I read a great article on Linked In this morning and this phrase really resonated: “In most businesses, you have to get approval to spend $500, yet you can call a meeting that runs for an hour with 20 of your staff and no-one questions it..” Forbes did an awesome article on just this subject too, that’s definitely worth a read: “Too Many Meetings, There’s a Simple Solution for That.

# 6. Accept That Everyone’s Different

Everyone has their own way of doing things – their pet peeves or weird preferences.

That’s ok, ok?

If your office manager wants the commercial cleaning company to use luxurious toilet paper over the ol’ 2 ply – Roll with them (excuse the lame pun…) – it’s really not that big a deal.

# 7. Frame Your Concerns

If you’ve ever worked with what I like to call the “dream stealers” you’ll connect with this point. Dream Stealers are people who will tell you every reason why something can’t be done. They don’t want to try anything new. They don’t care that you’ve come up with an innovative new way to offer your service, or engage with your team or clients, and then the dream stealers come in and tell you every reason why it won’t work and it can’t be done.

I’m not against constructive criticism, BUT

how about re-framing your objections to: “what makes the most sense for the business” or “can you explain in a little more detail how this will help our business?” Instead of just saying “Nope, not going to work because…”

Now if you’re a business owner, of course, you’re the one with everything on the line, so naturally, you will have the final say, and you do need to be straightforward about that too. A great way to frame it would be: “I understand that X doesn’t sound like a big deal, but it’s driving me crazy. Could we try doing ___?”

# 8. Don’t Give In to An Active Imagination

Sometimes, when we receive a text or an email from someone it can sound a little, well, sharp.

And no-one, absolutely 100% no-one, enjoys receiving an email or text like that.

If you’re the recipient of this type of message, sometimes your mind starts to go over it, and play it over and over and before you know it, that message is making you miserable. You’re feeling undervalued, overwhelmed or just plain upset by it – all because the sender didn’t put a ‘smile’ into their communication or was very blunt. So, if you’re confused or even just a little concerned about someone’s words or actions, don’t stew on it. And don’t send a dozen text messages backwards and forward about it either. Just use these magical 4 words to solve this:

JUST . SPEAK . TO . THEM .

Something like “Hey I might be misreading this, but do you have any concerns about how I’m handling XYZ?” Here’s the trick – say it calmly, and be genuinely curious and open. If you take the other route and get angry, frustrated and upset, well refer back to Point # 3 ” Don’t Get Frustrated Easily”

Conclusion

What do you do to earn the respect of your team or your boss? I’d love to hear, so please comment below and share your ideas…

What are your struggles in marketing your cleaning business? Let me know in the comments below and I’ll try and answer it in my next blog post… (I read and reply to every comment you leave me)…

Today’s quote:

“Keep away from people who try to belittle your ambitions. Small people always do that, but the really great make you feel that you, too, can become great. – Mark Twain

Lisa x

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First time to our blog…? Welcome, it’s great to have you here 🙂 Want to know more about us – check us out here.

Cleaning Marketer works exclusively with cleaning businesses to help them attract more prospects, make more sales, and keep their clients longer.

Prefer a live event in either San Diego or New York City? Get inspired, empowered and take your market by storm. Book now.

How to Manage a Cleaning Team (so it takes up less of your time)…

July 6, 2016 by Lisa Macqueen Leave a Comment

How to Manage a Cleaning Team (so it takes up less of your time)…

If you’re a cleaning business owner, I’m sure you’ve wondered how to manage a cleaning team more effectively, so that it takes up less of your time… right?

It’s one of the most common things I hear from time poor cleaning business owners. Instead of focusing on winning new accounts, they’re often spending countless hours every day, managing staff and dealing with issues that stop them from growing their business.

It’s enough to make you scream…

Or, they have team members who are just the wrong fit. But they keep them on out of either misplaced loyalty, or fear of what will happen if they move the ineffective staff out of their business.

It’s enough to make you scream…

However, if you have team members who just aren’t ‘cutting it’, you need to show leadership to the rest of your team, and make the necessary changes. Interestingly, recent studies have shown that over the past decade, many organisations have been investing in developing their leadership rather than developing management skills.

(A cleaning business owner needs both of these skills. If you feel like you’re lacking in these areas, investing in cleaning business coaching, will be a great way to shorten your learning curve..)

Management skills are those ‘one on one’ relationships between cleaning business owners (or managers) and the people in their team.

Having strong management skills, leads to a strong business. It’s as simple as that. So what do strong managers do differently to everyone else?

They communicate. Really well, and, have the difficult conversations when they need to.

Managing and leading a cleaning team is much easier when everyone understands their role. In other words, they understand the expectations of you, their manager, and the customers’ expectations.

And they work together as a team. Working in alignment, rather than individually because good management shares the vision for the business. Company alignment to a clear (shared) purpose is the biggest motivator you can create as a leader seeking to achieve scalable growth in your cleaning business. Once your team buys into the vision that you have co-created with them, it will be easier for you to delegate and focus on growth, because you won’t need to micro-manage all of the details, because your team will take responsibility and ownership.

How to Manage a Cleaning Team (so it takes up less of your time)…

Good employees, share that vision, because they helped create it. They helped create the purpose (your why), the values (the how), and the mission (what you’re striving for).

So, effective cleaning team leadership and management, is all about the shared purpose of the business, and the conversations you have with your team. Having great communication – what you say, and how you say it, is paramount.

Within a cleaning business there are so many different conversations we are having each day. Conversations around ideas, delegating tasks, feedback from colleagues and clients, and the conversations that happen in our meetings.

To help you have better conversations here are the keys to success:

A good conversation is two-way. It involves speaking and listening, and it’s imperative that everyone takes part in the conversation and is heard.
Secondly, be clear on what the conversation is about, and what the objective/s of the conversation are: “Today, we’re going to discuss the feedback we received from Mrs Smith, and how we can fix our process to ensure that never happens in the future” .
Be respectful and open. It’s ok to be vulnerable with your team, it helps them to understand your position, and build trust..
Finally, be mindful. Try to focus on building the relationship and encouraging new thinking. If a team member comes up with a great idea, thank them for their input, and encourage more: “That’s a fantastic idea Jane, how do you think we could incorporate that into our service offering”….

YES…

Would You Like Me To Help You Grow Your Business?

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Why Is Good On-Boarding So Important?

What are the benefits of client on-boarding?

Here’s what a good client on-boarding process can do:

Today’s quote:

Here’s How to Get New Cleaning Clients

Tip # 1 – Know your ideal client.

Tip # 2 – Develop a marketing plan.

Tip # 3 – Remember your current relationships are a jumping off point.

Tip # 4 – Build credibility and your network.

Tip # 5 – Raise your prices.

Tip # 6 – Articulate your VALUE PROPOSITION

So, What’s your 2017 going to be like? If you’re tired of struggling and going-it-alone, ask yourself this one question:

The 10 Best Podcasts & Resources for Cleaning Business Owners

Here’s Our Top 10 List:

UPDATE:

You don’t match expectation with service.

You haven’t built any rapport.

You don’t have all the information you need to do the job well.

They don’t have all the information they need.

You don’t have a system for consistent communication.

You don’t market to your existing clients.

Give So Much They Can’t Ignore You…

# 1. What Value Are You Bringing?

# 2. Ask For Feedback

# 3. Don’t Get Frustrated Easily

# 4. Don’t Overshare

# 5. Don’t Schedule Too Many Meetings

# 6. Accept That Everyone’s Different

# 7. Frame Your Concerns

# 8. Don’t Give In to An Active Imagination

To help you have better conversations here are the keys to success:

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