Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or simply looking for a practical and profitable side hustle, this post is your start for all things squeaky-clean. From tips on securing clients and building a stellar reputation to efficient cleaning techniques and managing your business operations, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to mop up the competition and turn your passion for cleanliness into a thriving venture that leaves offices sparkling and your bank account gleaming.
How much money can you make?
Freelance office cleaners can earn anywhere from $15 to $90 per hour.
Bark.com gives a figure of the average price of cleaning contractors is $995 per month with a recommendation of an office being cleaned every workday.
Commercial Cleaners on Thumbtack cost $230 – $270
Commercial cleaners charge $80 to $100 on the low end and $450 to $880 on the high end.
They have an excellent breakdown of prices and commercial cleaning rates per square foot on this page
https://www.thumbtack.com/p/commercial-cleaning-prices
Offering additional services such as carpet cleaning, window washing, or organizing can potentially increase your earning potential. It’s important to research the local market rates, set competitive pricing, and continuously strive to deliver outstanding results to maximize your income potential.
Here are some examples from Task Rabbit for the Kansas City USA area
For general cleaning ranges from $20 to $50
Exploring Office Cleaning Certifications: Can You Boost Your Expertise?
There are several certifications and training programs available for office cleaning professionals. These certifications can help you enhance your skills, improve your knowledge of best practices, and demonstrate your expertise to potential clients. Here are a few notable certifications in the field of office cleaning:
Cleaning Management Institute (CMI) Certification
CMI offers various certifications, including the Certified Custodial Technician (CCT) program, which covers essential cleaning skills, safety procedures, and effective cleaning techniques.
Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) While primarily focused on carpet and upholstery cleaning, IICRC offers certifications such as the Carpet Cleaning Technician (CCT) and the Upholstery and Fabric Cleaning Technician (UFT) that can be beneficial for office cleaners.
ISSA Cleaning Industry Management Standard (CIMS) Certification CIMS is a comprehensive management certification program that covers various aspects of the cleaning industry, including operations, quality systems, and organizational management.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Training
OSHA offers various training programs related to workplace safety and health. Completing courses such as OSHA 10-Hour General Industry can help you understand safety protocols and ensure compliance with regulations.
It’s important to research and choose certifications that align with your specific goals and the services you offer. These certifications can provide credibility, improve your marketability, and give you a competitive edge in the office cleaning industry.
Top 5 requested office cleaning tasks
The five most requested tasks in office cleaning typically include:
- Dusting and surface cleaning:
This involves dusting desks, chairs, shelves, and other surfaces, as well as wiping them clean to maintain a neat and tidy appearance. - Vacuuming and floor care:
Vacuuming carpets and rugs to remove dirt, debris, and dust is a common task. Additionally, floor care may involve sweeping hard floors and mopping them to ensure they are clean and presentable. - Restroom cleaning and sanitization:
Thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting restrooms is essential for maintaining a hygienic and pleasant environment. This includes cleaning toilets, sinks, mirrors, countertops, and replenishing supplies like soap and paper towels. - Trash removal and recycling:
Emptying trash bins and ensuring proper disposal of waste is a crucial aspect of office cleaning. Recycling tasks may involve separating recyclable items and properly disposing of them in designated containers. - Window cleaning:
Cleaning windows to remove smudges, fingerprints, and dirt is often requested for maintaining a clean and clear view. This can include cleaning interior windows as well as accessible exterior windows.
It’s important to note that specific tasks can vary based on the client’s requirements, the size of the office space, and any additional cleaning services requested.
Getting your first client
Securing your first office cleaning client can be an exciting step towards building your business. Here are some steps to help you secure that initial client:
Identify your target market
Determine the type and size of offices you want to target. Consider factors like location, industry, and office size to narrow down your focus.
Develop a professional brand
Create a strong brand identity, including a professional logo, website, and business cards. Establishing a polished and credible image will help attract potential clients.
Networking and referrals
Leverage your personal and professional network to spread the word about your services. Let friends, family, and acquaintances know about your new venture and ask for referrals.
Cold calling and direct outreach
Research and compile a list of potential office clients in your target market. Reach out to them via phone or email to introduce your services, highlight your expertise, and offer a free consultation or estimate.
Offer a trial or discounted service
Consider providing a discounted or trial cleaning service to a potential client. This can showcase your skills, build trust, and give them a taste of the quality of service you provide.
Leverage online platforms
Create profiles on relevant online platforms such as social media, business directories, and freelance marketplaces. Optimize your profiles with compelling descriptions, client testimonials, and high-quality photos to attract potential clients.
Provide excellent service and ask for referrals
Once you’ve secured your first client, deliver exceptional service that exceeds their expectations. Request feedback and ask satisfied clients for referrals or testimonials to help attract more clients in the future.
Remember, building a client base takes time and persistence. Focus on delivering outstanding service, building relationships, and continuously marketing your services to expand your customer base.
Offer those added extras
To make your office cleaning services stand out and provide added value to your clients, consider offering the following extras:
Green cleaning practices
Emphasize the use of environmentally friendly cleaning products and practices. This can include using eco-friendly cleaning agents, promoting recycling and waste reduction, and implementing sustainable cleaning methods.
Specialized floor care
Expand your services to include specialized floor care, such as carpet cleaning, deep tile and grout cleaning, or hardwood floor maintenance. This can help you cater to clients with specific flooring needs and differentiate yourself from competitors.
High-touch surface disinfection
In light of increased health and hygiene concerns, offer specialized disinfection services for high-touch surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and communal areas. This can help clients maintain a cleaner and safer workspace for their employees.
Restocking and supply management
Offer to monitor and restock office supplies such as hand soap, paper towels, and toilet paper. This proactive approach saves clients time and ensures essential supplies are readily available.
Flexible scheduling options
Provide flexible cleaning schedules to accommodate the unique needs of your clients. This could include offering evening or weekend cleaning services to minimize disruption during regular business hours.
Personalized customer service
Prioritize excellent communication and responsiveness to client inquiries, concerns, and feedback. Tailor your services to meet their specific needs and provide a personalized touch that fosters long-term client relationships.
Additional maintenance services
Consider offering additional maintenance tasks such as light bulb replacement, minor repairs, or organizing services. This can provide convenience to clients and position you as a one-stop solution for their office maintenance needs.
Remember, the key is to understand your clients’ pain points and preferences and tailor your added extras accordingly. By providing unique and valuable services, you can differentiate yourself in the market and attract loyal customers.
Your cleaning may make your client more successful!
Studies have shown that maintaining a clean and organized workspace can significantly enhance productivity and employee well-being. A clean office environment has been found to improve focus, reduce stress levels, and increase overall job satisfaction. Research conducted by renowned institutions, such as Princeton University, has demonstrated that cluttered and disorganized workspaces can negatively impact cognitive function and hinder productivity.
By investing in professional office cleaning services, businesses can create an environment that promotes efficiency, creativity, and employee happiness, ultimately leading to better overall performance and success.
You can use this in a promo leaflet such as the one below – feel free to use, edit, and change
🌟Discover the Secret to Productivity and Success! 🌟
Did you know that a clean and organized office can skyrocket your productivity and boost your overall success? At [Your Cleaning Business Name], we’re here to unveil the power of a pristine workspace!
✨ Sparkling Spaces, Soaring Results ✨
Studies have shown that a clean and clutter-free environment has a profound impact on your focus, creativity, and overall well-being. Our professional office cleaning services create a harmonious atmosphere where productivity thrives and stress evaporates.
🌟 Unleash Your Potential 🌟
Imagine walking into an office that’s flawlessly maintained, where every surface gleams and every corner exudes freshness. With our meticulous attention to detail, we ensure no spot is overlooked. From dusting and vacuuming to impeccable restroom sanitization, our dedicated team ensures every inch of your workspace is spotless.
💼 Elevate Your Image, Impress Your Clients 💼
A pristine office is a reflection of professionalism and competence. By choosing [Your Cleaning Business Name], you’re not only creating an inspiring workplace for your team but also leaving a lasting impression on your clients. We go the extra mile to make your office shine, providing an environment that fosters trust and leaves a remarkable impression.
🌟 Your Partner in Success 🌟
At [Your Cleaning Business Name], we understand that every business is unique. That’s why we offer flexible scheduling options tailored to your needs, allowing you to focus on what you do best while we take care of the cleanliness. Our exceptional customer service and personalized approach ensure your satisfaction every step of the way.
🎁 Claim Your Special Offer Today! 🎁
Ready to experience the transformational power of a clean office? Contact us now and take advantage of our exclusive promotional offer. Say goodbye to distractions, and unlock your true potential in a fresh and invigorating workspace.
Call [Your Phone Number] or visit [Your Website] to book your FREE consultation and get ready to witness the magic of a spotless office.
🌟 Elevate Your Success with [Your Cleaning Business Name]! 🌟
5 take away points
- Determine your target market
Identify the types and sizes of offices you want to serve and research the demand for cleaning services in your chosen area. - Create a business plan
Outline your goals, services offered, pricing structure, marketing strategies, and financial projections to guide your business growth. - Obtain necessary licenses and insurance
Check local regulations and obtain any required licenses or permits. Additionally, consider getting liability insurance to protect yourself and your clients. - Invest in essential equipment and supplies
Purchase the necessary cleaning equipment, such as vacuums, mops, and cleaning solutions, to ensure you can deliver high-quality service. Develop relationships with reliable suppliers for ongoing supply needs. - Market your services effectively
Create a professional brand identity, build an online presence through a website or social media, and develop marketing materials to attract clients. Network, seek referrals, and use online platforms to promote your services and generate leads.
Conclusion
In conclusion, setting up a cleaning service for offices can be a lucrative and practical side hustle. As you’ve learned throughout this blog, there is a growing demand for reliable and professional office cleaning services. By following the steps and advice shared here, you can successfully establish your own cleaning business and start earning extra income.
Remember, success in this industry comes from a combination of hard work, attention to detail, and exceptional customer service. Building a solid reputation, delivering high-quality results, and continuously seeking opportunities to improve and expand your services are key to long-term success.
With determination, perseverance, and a commitment to professionalism, you can turn your passion for cleaning into a thriving side hustle. Take action, market your services effectively, and provide outstanding value to your clients. Start small, grow steadily, and watch your cleaning business flourish.