In this article, I will give you tips for starting a window cleaning business, specifically how to get a customer base. Many of the principles will help you become a professional window cleaner.
1. Be professional.
Being professional starts even before looking for window cleaning clients. You must make sure that your image is attractive. Little things like clean clothes, well-trimmed hair, good personal hygiene, and a smile have a big positive impact on someone when they open the door for you. Would you let a scruffy dressed smelly person you don’t know work in your house? I did not think. Next, have a well-prepared message in mind. Something like “Hi, I’m a local window cleaner and I was wondering if you need a window cleaner.” It is short, polite and to the point.
2. Get business cards.
The business card is the basis of all your advertising for your window cleaning business. Your business card should be well designed and have all your relevant details without being cluttered. You should get your card into the hands of as many people as you can, including friends, family, current customers, and potential window cleaning customers. You are ready to hit the streets!
3. Canvases, canvases, canvases!!!
Soliciting window cleaning clients for some may seem demeaning, almost ‘begging’ for work. For that reason, many send out thousands of flyers by hand, which is not an effective use of their time, or through local newspapers or magazines, which can be costly. In my experience, homeowners like to see the window cleaner they will be dealing with each month. In my experience, the most effective way to probe is by knocking on every door on the street and making sure you talk to the owner of each house, not the kids, the babysitter, the gardener, etc. Talking to each individual is much more effective than pushing a flyer through the door. When was the last time you looked at a flyer and bought that product? Probably never. Going in person to advertise your window cleaning business gives an instant personal touch that is essential. After all, as their window washer, you will have access to your property and they will want to be able to trust you. The first key to trust is to know how you look!
4. Respond professionally.
If the head of household declines your window cleaning services, politely ask him to leave you a business card in case he needs a window cleaner in the future, or if he has a friend who needs a window cleaner. This has the same effect as a flyer, but at least they’ve met you and will recognize you when you’re cleaning windows on their street in the future. If the head of household asks you to give him a quote, be sensible in your price for them, but more importantly, for yourself. The price of window cleaning is an item in itself. If they accept your quote, again, be professional. Have a neat A5 book where you can write your details, not an old piece of paper that can be easily lost. Accurately record the individual’s house number, street name, and last name. DO NOT ask for your phone number. This is a step too far in terms of getting personal information on your initial call. They will offer this to you when they are ready. Next, try to give an idea of when you will call to clean the windows. Be as quick as possible, i.e. “I can call to clean your windows the day after tomorrow.” Whenever you agree to a time, be sure to stick to it. The key to a successful window cleaning business is to be reliable.
5. Have your own website.
Gone are the days when people used that big color book to find a window cleaner. Now, more people use the Internet than ever before. With a little research, you can crack Google and get to the top spot without sending a dime! My website was designed by a friend of mine initially, but I learned how to tweak it to increase my Google ranking. My website is now number one for virtually all of the following searches: Telford window cleaner, Telford window cleaner, Telford window cleaner, etc. These are the likely searches someone will do in my area for a window cleaner. A website will generate a surprising amount of interest for a relatively small outlay. In many cases, it is cheaper than ‘paper’ advertising.
In conclusion, if you want to get a good customer base for your window cleaning business, there is nothing better than giving your service a personal touch. As your window cleaner, you will be in frequent contact with the same people and your property. Be trustworthy, be courteous, be professional, and pay attention to detail. Here are the tips and secrets to starting a window cleaning business through sounding.
