The cleaning business, while not the most glamorous industry, is a fast growing multi-billion dollar business in the US and offers entrepreneurs unique opportunities to profit and earn a ‘six figure’ annual salary.
Let’s take a look at the cleaning industry and see how much money it is possible to make and what it takes to get to the ‘six figure’ level.
How much money can you earn cleaning?
Most small cleaning business owners who work full time as sole operators in their first year can earn between $20,000 and $30,000. Once they can hire an employee, build a local reputation and have good systems in place, then an annual income of $100,000 is not unrealistic and much more is possible for those who put in the effort.
What separates ‘six figure’ operators from the rest?
Here are ten factors to consider that typically separate high earners from the rest:
1) Different niche cleaning markets offer different opportunities. In some cities and states it may be easier to make it in the office cleaning industry and in other areas the carpet cleaning industry is more lucrative. It all depends on local demand and how many companies serve that demand.
2) Start building your brand early on and view it as your company’s most valuable asset.
3) Develop and refine systems that ensure your business runs smoothly. Constantly look for ways to increase the productivity of your cleaning crews.
4) Realize the importance of having a great sales system. Focus your efforts on converting an increasing number of leads into customers.
5) Sell your clients with services related to cleaning, premium services or more frequent service.
6) To scale to the ‘six figure’ level, you must learn how to hire, train and organize crews of workers to do the cleaning while you focus on running the business.
7) Learn how to run successful ad campaigns and learn about modern marketing methods such as networking, cross-promoting with related businesses, and “word of mouth” marketing.
8) Value your customers. Treat them as individuals and remind them often how much you appreciate their business. Happy customers can lead to referrals, and customer acquisition through this method is free.
9) Have the right attitude. People sometimes stereotype cleaners in a negative way. There is nothing wrong with being a cleaner for a living, but first and foremost you should see yourself as a businessman or woman.
10) Investigate and learn continuously. Educating yourself about the cleaning business and business management in general doesn’t stop once you establish your business.
Could you start a successful cleaning business and earn over $100,000 a year?
