Confessions of a Cleaning Business Owner

Why your staff training is failing

In this episode of Confessions of a Cleaning Business Owner, Louise Trehearn and Diane Greenwood discuss the common pitfalls in staff training within cleaning businesses. They explore why training often fails, emphasizing the importance of structured training, practical techniques, and creating a positive learning environment. The conversation highlights the need for business owners to invest time and money in training to ensure long-term success and quality service delivery. They also provide practical solutions for improving training processes and the significance of feedback in the training journey.
 
takeaways
Many cleaning business owners struggle with effective staff training.
A lack of structure in training leads to poor outcomes.
Hope is not a strategy for training success.
Investing time and money in training pays off in the long run.
Training should be conducted in a supportive environment, not in front of clients.
Feedback should be timely and constructive to be effective.
Training techniques should include telling, showing, doing, and reviewing.
Assuming everyone knows how to clean can lead to training gaps.
Creating a positive mindset during training is crucial for success.
Improving training processes is essential for the growth of the cleaning industry.

Training CoSHH in a real domestic Setting

In this episode of Confessions of a Cleaning Business Owner, Louise Trehearn and Diane Greenwood delve into the importance of COSHH training in the domestic cleaning sector. They discuss the integration of COSHH principles into practical training, emphasizing the need for understanding safety data sheets, risk assessments, and the real-world application of cleaning techniques. The conversation highlights the dangers of mixing chemicals, the significance of dwell time, and the necessity of informed product selection. The episode concludes with insights on how to effectively train staff and the future of training opportunities in the cleaning industry.

Interview with MBT about starting a business and working together as partners

In this episode of Confessions of a Cleaning Business Owner, Diane chats with Keith and Bex from MBT Property Management about their journey into the cleaning business. They discuss their backgrounds, the challenges they faced in starting and growing their business, and the importance of pricing and outsourcing. Bex shares her initial reluctance towards cleaning, while Keith reflects on his diverse work history. Together, they highlight the evolution of their business and the strategies they implemented to overcome obstacles and achieve success.
In this conversation, Diane shares her journey of running a business, highlighting the multifaceted roles she has to play, the challenges of employee dynamics, and the balance between work and personal relationships. The discussion also touches on future aspirations for their business, the importance of community support, and the launch of their podcast, MBT Unplugged, which aims to provide real insights into the cleaning industry and the entrepreneurial journey.

Training your cleaning team

In this episode of 'Confessions of a Cleaning Business Owner', Louise and Diane discuss the critical importance of training staff in the domestic cleaning industry. They highlight the costs associated with inadequate training and the challenges of traditional training methods. They emphasise the need for structured training programs, effective techniques, and the importance of assessing and empowering cleaners. The conversation also touches on innovative training environments and the long-term benefits of investing in training. Finally, Louise and Diane introduce an upcoming workshop aimed at enhancing training practices for cleaning business owners.

Are you stuck in a busy trap?

In this episode of Confessions of a Cleaning Business Owner, Louise and Diane discuss the challenges faced by busy entrepreneurs, particularly in the cleaning industry. They explore the balance between work and personal life, the pitfalls of hustle culture, and the importance of setting boundaries. They emphasise the need for business owners to evaluate their pricing strategies and the impact of survival pricing on their overall success. The conversation also touches on the significance of personal development and the irony of helping others find time while struggling with their own work-life balance.
 
takeaways
Being busy doesn't always equate to growth.
It's possible to have both profit and a fulfilling lifestyle.
Working harder isn't the solution to business challenges.
Simplifying your business can lead to greater success.
Setting boundaries is crucial for self-care.
Survival pricing can hinder business sustainability.
Hustle culture often neglects work-life balance.
Personal development is essential for business owners.
Evaluate your time management to improve efficiency.
Helping others find time can highlight our own struggles.

Creating your own cleaning products

In this episode of 'Confessions of a Cleaning Business Owner', Louise and Diane discuss the viability of making your own cleaning products, particularly in a professional cleaning context. They explore the health and safety regulations that apply to professional cleaners, the risks associated with homemade cleaning solutions, and the importance of consumer trust in cleaning products. The conversation also delves into the regulatory landscape for cleaning products, emphasising the need for proper testing and labeling. Ultimately, they conclude that while making cleaning products at home can be feasible, it comes with significant responsibilities and legal obligations that must be adhered to.

Cleaning Safely including PPE and infection control

In this conversation, Louise and Diane discuss essential practices for cleaning safely, focusing on personal protective equipment (PPE), particularly gloves, and the importance of understanding their types and uses. They delve into the significance of colour coding in cleaning, waste management regulations, and the differences between professional and supermarket cleaning chemicals. The discussion also highlights the shift towards eco-friendly products and the importance of using appropriate masks for safety. The conversation concludes with resources available for cleaners to enhance their knowledge and practices.
 
takeaways
Different types of gloves offer varying levels of protection.
Double gloving is common in high-risk environments like hospitals.
Colour coding helps prevent cross-contamination in cleaning.
A waste carrier license is necessary for managing cleaning waste.
Professional cleaning products are often safer and more effective than supermarket options.
Eco-friendly cleaning products have improved significantly in quality.
Probiotic cleaning products can help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria.
Understanding safety data sheets is crucial for safe cleaning practices.
Surgical masks do not provide adequate protection against inhaling harmful chemicals.
Basic biohazard knowledge is essential for all cleaners.

Should I make a cup of tea for my cleaner?

In this episode of 'Confessions of a Cleaning Business Owner', Louise and Diane discuss essential tips for clients to enhance their cleaning experience. They cover topics such as the importance of tidying up before cleaners arrive, realistic expectations regarding cleaning time, effective communication, and the significance of tipping during the holiday season. The conversation also touches on managing pets, the etiquette of offering drinks, and the need for clear access to homes. Ultimately, the episode aims to foster a better understanding between clients and cleaners, ensuring a smoother and more efficient cleaning process.
 
takeaways
Clients should tidy up but not clean before cleaners arrive.
Paying on time is crucial for cleaners' livelihoods.
Realistic expectations about cleaning time are essential.
Leave clear notes for cleaners to improve communication.
Tipping at Christmas is appreciated and encouraged.
Clients should manage pets to avoid complications during cleaning.
Offering a cup of tea is acceptable, but cleaners shouldn't make it.
Maintaining a comfortable environment is important for cleaners.
Providing access to homes via keys or lock boxes is beneficial.
Recommending cleaners to others helps support their business.

When a complaint from a customer feels like too much

In this episode of Confessions of a Cleaning Business Owner, Louise and Diane discuss the emotional challenges of handling customer complaints in the cleaning industry. They explore effective strategies for complaint management, the importance of communication, and how to learn from feedback to improve business practices. The conversation emphasizes the need for a structured approach to complaints, including the use of templates and systems to enhance customer service and build loyalty.
 
takeaways
Complaints can be emotionally challenging for business owners.
Having a structured process for handling complaints is essential.
Ignoring complaints can lead to bigger issues down the line.
It's important to keep perspective and not focus solely on negative feedback.
Customer feedback can provide valuable insights for improvement.
Templates can streamline the complaint handling process.
Listening to customers is key to resolving issues effectively.
Building a system for managing complaints can enhance customer loyalty.
Every complaint is an opportunity for learning and growth.
Maintaining professionalism in communication is crucial.

How is it possible to run a successful cleaning business and make no money?

In this insightful episode, Louise and Diane dive deep into the common struggles cleaning business owners face, especially those working tirelessly yet barely turning a profit. They break down the importance of having the right business model, discuss effective pricing strategies, and highlight the challenges of growth in the cleaning industry. From exploring different business structures, like the agency model, to emphasizing the need to address foundational issues before scaling, this episode is packed with valuable advice. Tune in to learn why stepping back, reassessing your strategy, and seeking help can lead to long-term success.
Key Takeaways:
Hard work doesn’t always equal profit for cleaning business owners.
A team of 10 can be less profitable than solo cleaning.
The wrong business model leads to financial struggles.
Pricing is critical for profitability.
High-end, fully managed services are often more profitable.
Low-end pricing requires high volume to be sustainable.
The agency model offers scalability but has its risks.
Admitting and addressing problems is essential before growth.
Seeking help can fast-track solutions for your business.
Perfect for cleaning business owners looking to reshape their strategies and boost profitability