Why start an office cleaning business?

If you are looking for a reliable source of income that will be there no matter what the economy does, consider starting a business where you or other people clean offices.

Every office needs cleaning regularly for several reasons:

• To present a good appearance to customers and clients

• To protect the health of everyone who works there

• To keep up the morale of employees

It is pretty rare for a business to do its own cleaning, and often if they do, they would rather not but have not found someone reliable whom they trust to be in their office after hours.

What does it cost to start an office cleaning business?

You can do it for under $100. Here's what you need:

1. Some cleaning supplies -- and in some cases, the companies you are going to clean for may have those.

2. Some posters to put up, advertising your services.

3. A way to get to the jobs you will be getting, usually your own vehicle.

You may also need a business license, depending on your location.

How to get business

Posters, classified ads, and talking to people are very good ways to start your office cleaning business. If there is an office park, or other area where a lot of companies are located near each other, offer a special price in exchange for businesses writing you a letter of recommendation, once they are happy with your work.

Then you can show the letters to other companies in the area. Also, people who work near each other may chat with each other over breaks or lunch, and word of mouth is powerful.

Having your jobs clustered in the same area could also make it easier for you (or your employees, if you have them) to go from one job to the next.

Gaining the trust of your customers

Some of your potential customers will be comfortable hiring you if you make a good impression on them, so that they think you will do a good job. Others may be more concerned about matters such as whether you carry insurance or have a criminal record. Be honest and straightforward about what your situation is.

Once you have gotten started, done a good job at some places, and acquired references, then the more cautious people may be more willing to become your clients. It's perfectly understandable that they would be concerned. After all, they will be entrusting you with a lot. If you do hire employees, be prepared to tell potential customers just how you screen your employees.

Another income stream

Once you have been running your business a while and have a good sense of what is involved, you may be able to sell some items to your clients. For example, floor mats in entry areas can cut the wear and tear on carpets, as well as diminishing the amount of vacuuming needed. Disinfectant wipes, trash bags, glass cleaner, micro-fiber dust clothes, non-abrasive wipes for computers, and other items are things they should have on hand for immediate use.

You could make up a kit that you sold, with options perhaps, and not only would it earn you some extra money, it would show your customers that you were the sort of person who went the extra mile. Instead of just coming in and cleaning as told, you are someone who sees the big picture of what they need: an office that looks and feels good.

Why start an office cleaning business?

To provide a needed service and make a good profit!

For more information, click to check out the Office Cleaning Kit with information on how to be a manager and to make a very good annual salary.