The adage goes one man’s trash is another person’s treasure. Thus, housecleaning may seem to be an iffy word for many home owners but it can be a sure money maker for others with the acumen for a little dusting and scrubbing in another person’s home or office. Many Americans would rather spend their free time enjoying themselves and let chores such as cleaning be handled by other people. One area of the cleaning business that can be explored is in the area of maid services. In order to be sure about the business one wants to undertake, here are a few guide questions that need to be responded to so that there would be no doubt as to the business one needs to engage in.
1) What’s the service? Cleaning is not enough nowadays. The type of cleaning needs to be specified as inclusions to the cleaning, such as laundry services or floor polishing. Also, one needs to define the target market, as it helps to focus on the business. A review also of one’s skill set and process capacities are essential to defining the character of the business one is willing to undertake.
2) How much will it cost? The for profit orientation in business should not be totally lost. But to make money one has to spend money and these costs include equipment, supplies and office material, called capital outlay. Then there are the co called operational expenses such as insurance, advertising, salaries and other costs in the operation of the business. If one does not have these in tow, then one would find it very difficult to succeed.
3) How much will it cost the client? Reasonableness in pricing is key. This can be addressed by making a quick review of the competition’s pricing and their strategies. When one has this information, use them as a guide to one’s own pricing. It is important that some small changes can be sources of additional income for the business. But the bottom line is having a price for one’s services, be it lesser or greater than the competition.
4) What is the business name? Simplicity in naming is the secret to having a great name. Having it simple makes the name easier to recall and the name allows for a summary of the services that can be offered. Patience in finding the right name is a must as one brainstorming session may not be enough to nail the perfect name. Also, before committing to a name, it is important that one tests it to gauge the effect it has on people.
5) How will one become visible? If only a few people know of the business, then the business would surely flounder. A little cloak and dagger tactic can be used to make the business known. Offer one’s services for free to leaders in the community, and if they are satisfied with it then they can spread the word about one’s services. Another option is the use of advertising media to make one’s presence known. It can be a simple hand out to a whole billboard, but do not let convention and tradition get in the way of advertising.
See: Start a cleaning business