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Wondering how to start a cleaning business?
Yes, it can be an exciting and rewarding venture, but it can also be overwhelming if you don't know where to start.
Whether you're starting from scratch or looking to take your existing cleaning business to the next level, this guide will walk you through the right steps to get your business:
Increase your sales by getting more leads and clients
Make more money by upselling services to current clients
Save money on marketing and advertising with these effective templates
Drop the low-hanging fruit in your business by getting more profitable clients
One of the biggest challenges when it comes to the question of how to start a cleaning business is securing the necessary funds.
If you don't have savings to tap into, don't worry! There are several ways to obtain the money you need to get your business off the ground.
First off, you should check out small business loans from your local bank or credit union.
They can help you understand the requirements and guide you through the application process.
The SBA (i.e. The U.S. Small Business Administration) is a great resource for connecting you with lenders and grants.
Also, don’t forget to check out these grant databases before applying for business loans:
Another option is to find a business partner who shares your vision and will invest in your cleaning business.
Alternatively, you can find investors or backers who will provide funding in exchange for a share of your company's profits or other added benefits.
For example, with a compelling pitch, you can find crowdfunding through platforms like Kickstarter or Indiegogo in exchange for rewards to backers.
As you explore how to start a cleaning business, you might be tempted to use credit cards to fund your startup costs, but be careful.
While it might seem like an easy solution, credit card debt can quickly spiral out of control and put your business at risk.
Plus, credit card interest rates are a lot higher than many other funding sources.
Once you've figured out funding for your cleaning business, you have to use your resources wisely.
Start by registering your business with your state and obtaining the necessary licenses and permits.
This ensures that your business is operating legally and protects you from potential fines or legal issues.
Next, invest in business insurance to protect your company from potential liabilities or accidents that could happen on the job.
Also, it’s a good idea to open a separate business bank account to keep your personal and business finances separate.
Additionally, you’ll want to choose a unique business name that isn't already in use in your state, which will help you avoid any potential trademark issues down the line.
You should also meet with a CPA (i.e. Certified Public Accountant) to help you make smart decisions about your business structure, taxes, and financial planning.
They can guide you through the process of getting an EIN (i.e. Employer Identification Number) if you plan to hire employees and even pick the right business structure.
Alternatively, you’ll need a SIN (i.e. Social Insurance Number) if you’re in Canada.
Most cleaning companies either register as an LLC (i.e. Limited Liability Company) or an S Corporation.
However, each structure has its own pros and cons, so it’s important to consult with a trusted legal advisor or CPA to choose the one that best fits your needs.
Don't forget to purchase uniforms for yourself and your employees.
Uniforms help create a professional image and make your team easily recognizable to clients.
Your uniforms should have your logo on them, and if you don't have one yet, you might want to work with a graphic designer to create a quality logo (e.g. freelancers are great for this).
When it comes to cleaning supplies and equipment, invest in high-quality products that will help you deliver excellent results for your clients.
Additionally, consider investing in a reliable cleaning service software, like Service Autopilot, to streamline your operations and save time on administrative tasks.
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Now that you’re up and running it is time to start building up your client base, and the easiest way to do that is through marketing.
While traditional advertising methods can be expensive, there are several low-cost strategies you can use to get the word out about your services.
Start by asking satisfied customers, friends, and family for referrals
On top of that, encourage your customers to leave 5-star reviews on popular platforms like Yelp, Google, and Facebook to boost your online reputation.
Social media advertising is another cost-effective way to reach potential customers in your area. Platforms like Facebook and Instagram allow you to create targeted ads based on location, interests, and demographics. You can set a daily budget to control your spending and adjust your ads as needed.
As you’re discovering how to start a cleaning business, Google Ads can also be a valuable tool for attracting new clients. When people search for cleaning services online, your ads can appear at the top of the search results, increasing your visibility and driving traffic to your website.
To run your cleaning business efficiently and effectively, consider investing in a top-rated cleaning service software like Service Autopilot.
This powerful tool can help you streamline your operations, saving you time and money in the long run.
Plus, Service Autopilot can help you optimize your team's efficiency by using smart route planning tools.
This ultimately means using the most efficient routes for your cleaners, minimizing travel time while maximizing productivity.
Instant invoicing
Better scheduling
Manage your clients and employees all in one system
Knowing how to start a cleaning business can feel overwhelming, but with the right guidance and tools, you can turn your entrepreneurial dreams into a thriving reality.
By following the steps outlined in this guide and leveraging the power of cleaning service software like Service Autopilot, you'll be well-equipped to launch and grow a successful cleaning business, even with limited funds.
Take action today and start building the business you've always wanted!
Related: 100 Cleaning Business Names to Spark Your Imagination
Originally published May 8, 2024 12:00 PM
Tags: Business Operation
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