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"...depending
on which type of cleaning business you are starting, you can basically
start on a shoe-string budget or by literally borrowing your neighbor's
vacuum. However, you have to also take into consideration business registration
and marketing costs...
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Starting your own cleaning business can be very rewarding. There are tons of benefits to running a cleaning business including the fact that you actually get to be your own boss. Then, of course, there's the money you get to make. Indeed, it can be very profitable.
However, starting any kind of business can be very intimidating, especially if you don't know where to begin. Many times, folks are often kept from pursuing their entrepreneurial dreams simply because they can't find answers to business start-up questions. Well, thank God for the Internet! If you've ever wanted to start your very own cleaning business, then follow these tips to ensure you start off on the right foot.
Now, before you even start, decide if this is right for you. Though running a cleaning business can be financially rewarding -- let's face it, it's not very glamorous. Also, do an inventory of your people and business skills. Though cleaning certainly doesn't require a great deal of intellect and isn't all that high-tech, you still need good people skills to build relationships and good administration skills to run your business.
With that said, the first thing you should do when deciding to start a cleaning business is to choose your target market. Start by deciding what kind of cleaning business you'd like to run. You can clean Homes, Offices, Carpets and even Windows. Each has it's individual benefits. For example, cleaning windows gives you the opportunity to work outdoors. Cleaning offices allows you to work part-time. It's up to you. Pick one that best fits your desires.
Alongside of the above, you'll have to also decide whether you want cater to the consumer or commercial markets. Basically, cleaning businesses that cater to the consumer market offer services to individual consumers. Services provided might be window cleaning, carpet cleaning and maid services. Businesses that cater to the commercial market offer their services to other businesses. Services provided might be office cleaning, janitorial services and window cleaning.
Next, work out your start-up costs. Now, depending on which type of cleaning business you are starting, you can basically start on a shoe-string budget or by literally borrowing your neighbor's vacuum. However, you have to also take into consideration business registration and marketing costs.
Now that you more or less have an idea of how much your start-up costs are, start pricing your service(s). Start by pulling out your copy of the Yellow Pages and research what the competition is charging. You can also do research on the Internet.
Deciding what you'll be charging for your services doesn't have to be rocket science. For starters, simply charge a bit less than what the competition is charging. Don't go cutting yourself short by charging outrageously low prices. First of all, people may assume your services aren't that great because your prices are so low. Second, remember that you are a business and your goal is to make profits.
Next, think of a name for your company, such as "Squeeky Clean's Home Cleaning Service". Keep it simple, but try to make it stand out from all the others. Also remember that your company name should reflect the type of business you're in - so, if you'll be cleaning offices, be sure to work the word "office cleaning" into your business name.
Now, go to your County Clerk's office and register your business. What type of business exactly (ie: LLC, Inc., etc.) is beyond the scope of this article. I strongly advise you to speak to an accountant in order to determine which one is best for you. Remember that this is a real business you'll be setting up - so, you'll need to have your business paperwork in order.
Fortunately, there are plenty of resources where you can get tons of information on starting a business. One excellent resource is the IRS. Visit www.irs.gov/businesses/small/ to learn more.
While you're at the Clerk's office, take a moment to research the Zoning Laws in your area. This is very important to do whether or not you plan to work out of your home as there are regulations that do not allow certain types of businesses to be set up in a community.
At this point, go ahead and take your business for a trial run by doing some cleaning jobs for your friends, family and maybe some of your neighbors. Provide your services free-of-charge in exchange for references and honest feedback. Do not underestimate the power of this. First, getting references is going to help you get clients. Second, getting honest feedback will help you gauge what your weak and strong points are.
Finally, an most importantly - get expert guidance. Buy a book that will teach you the ins and outs of not only starting a cleaning business, but also running, marketing and growing a cleaning business as well. Though we've covered basic steps to get you started on the right track, there is still a bit more you'll need to learn in order to actually be successful with your cleaning business.
That said, consider buying the instructional cleaning business start-up manuals offered here. These were put together by two individuals who not only run their own professional cleaning service, but also teach their methods and give expert help as well. The ebook manuals cover everything from starting your cleaning business, tax issues and structuring your business correctly all the way to marketing strategies and how to win and keep clients. Click Here to visit their website now.
In conclusion, you too, can own and run a cleaning business and immediately start reaping the benefits of being your own boss. Just follow the above tips and you'll be well on your way.
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