3 Common Mistakes Cleaning Business Owners Make—and How to Avoid Them
Running a successful cleaning business isn’t just about having great cleaning skills—it requires strong business acumen too. However, many cleaning business owners fall into the same traps that can limit their growth and profitability. In this post, we’ll highlight three common mistakes cleaning business owners make and how to avoid them, ensuring you stay on track for success.
1. Saying Yes to Every Customer
It can be tempting to say yes to every potential client, especially when you’re trying to grow your business. However, this is a quick path to burnout and inefficiency. Overcommitting yourself can lead to taking on jobs that don’t align with your expertise or schedule, causing unnecessary stress and stretching your resources too thin.
Solution: Learn to set boundaries and say no when necessary. Not every customer or job will be the right fit for your business, and that’s okay. By focusing on clients that align with your services and schedule, you’ll be able to deliver high-quality work without overwhelming yourself. It’s also important to know when to delegate or outsource jobs that don’t match your skills or capacity.
2. Undercharging or Underquoting for Services
Many cleaning business owners fall into the trap of undercharging for their services, especially when they’re starting out. They may believe that offering lower prices will attract more clients, but in reality, this often leads to overwork and low profitability. Undervaluing your work can also set a precedent that’s difficult to change later.
Solution: Charge a fair price that reflects the value of your work and expertise. Research your local market to understand competitive rates, but don’t feel pressured to match the lowest prices. Your pricing should cover your time, materials, overhead costs, and still leave room for profit. Remember, clients who appreciate quality service are willing to pay for it. It’s better to have fewer clients who pay what you’re worth than a full schedule of underpaying clients.
3. Oversharing Personal Information with Clients
Building good relationships with clients is key to retaining their business, but there’s a fine line between being friendly and being overly personal. Sharing too much about your personal life with clients can blur the boundaries of professionalism and lead to awkward situations. It can also give clients the wrong impression about your business practices.
Solution: Maintain a friendly but professional relationship with your clients. Be personable and approachable, but avoid oversharing details about your personal life. Instead, focus on providing excellent service and communicating professionally. Clear boundaries ensure that your relationship remains respectful and business-focused, which helps foster long-term client trust.
Bonus Top Tip: Join the DCBN
If you’re a cleaning business owner looking to avoid these common mistakes and access valuable resources to grow your business, consider joining the Domestic Cleaning Business Network (DCBN). As a DCBN member, you’ll gain access to documentation, supplier discounts, online and live training, weekly 121 mentoring calls and a wealth of resources designed specifically for cleaning business owners. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your business to the next level, DCBN offers the support and guidance you need!