How to Start a Janitorial Company
- 1). Decide what type of janitorial cleaning service you want to offer and if you want your business to specialize in a certain type of cleaning.
- 2). Research your local area for potential customers and learn about your competition. Find out what the average current rates in your area are for the type of janitorial service you plan to offer. Speak with local building supervisors to learn which local companies are known for their quality service and which companies need improvements. Ask about how current services could be improved. Learning about the business you are going to start from those who would buy your services is the best way to understand what is needed in your area.
- 3). Find out when contracts end and when businesses you are interested in working for will be taking bids for the coming year. Many large commercial properties and businesses sign annual contracts for cleaning services. If you miss the deadline to submit a bid for the coming year, you will have to wait another year before you have the opportunity to try to get the contract.
- 4). Maintain records of information you collect during the research process. Use the information to develop a solid business and marketing plan.
- 5). Develop a business plan that includes start-up costs as well as monthly operating costs including supplies and labor.
- 6). Develop a marketing plan to publicize your new business and get clients. Make sure you include costs to develop, print and distribute marketing materials, including items such as brochures, websites, business cards, invoices, fliers and any additional items that will assist in building and maintaining your business.
- 7). Set a date to open your doors and get to work finding your first clients. Offer services that are unique to your area and highlight aspects of your service that will fulfill unmet needs. For example, if several local business owners indicate that their providers are seldom on-time, then you could focus on being on-time and offer a guarantee that will encourage business owners to try your service. If you offer a guarantee, you will need to make sure that you fulfill it or you risk developing a bad reputation in your community very quickly.
