Before listing the steps on how to start a window cleaning business below, I’d like to initially say that I’m going to assume you know that you need to register a business name preferably with the term window cleaning service or window washing service in the name.
- Image – In order to develop your window cleaning business the way you want to develop it, you MUST establish an excellent image. There are window cleaners all over the place that look average. They show up to do a window washing estimate and they look like they just rolled up. Come at the situation from a prospect is perspective. 3 window cleaners show up to provide ’em an estimate. Only one of them (hopefully you) is in company uniform (polo shirt/logo) and presents a nice estimate presentation package (references, cover letter, etc.) with a written estimate (most window cleaners provide verbal estimates without any references). Who do you think the prospect will choose to clean their windows. Um let me think. YOU!
- Market – Do some initial research into your target market of prospects and what subdivisions/areas where they live. My markets were generally higher income homeowners and retirees. Then distribute flyers into these areas. Flyers are cheap and they generate activity, calls, and jobs. You can expect on average about a 1% return, so do not simply put out 100 flyers and think you are good to go. Sorry. It does not work like that. You can eventually reinvest into postcards to automate more of your marketing.
- Market Again! – This is actually what separates the successful Business Module Hub from the not all that successful window cleaners. You need to absolutely repeat your marketing efforts to the same prospects over and over again. Repeat, consistent flyer distributions, postcard mailings, etc., is what will make your business and window cleaning customer base skyrocket. The first time someone sees your flyer, they say gracious murmur, who are you? The next time they see your flyer, presently they know your company. The third time they see your flyer, they begin to confide in you. And now is about the time they will call you in the event that they need their windows cleaned. And it gets better and better each time you market to them. Sure you will get calls the very first flyer distribution you do, yet it will be your weakest response. It goes up from that point.
- Reliability – When you and a customer agree to a job time, be on time. Elementary and I should not even have to mention it, however unfortunately I do. And in case you are running late, call the customer. Nobody likes to wait. So it is a great way to make the wrong impression by being late. Do it too many times and you will see your customer base start dwindling.