Scaling your cleaning business – from 5 to 50 employees
Growing a cleaning business from a small team to a thriving business of 50 or more employees is an exciting journey, but it’s also a challenge that requires careful planning, strong systems, and a focus on sustainability. Whether you’re just starting to scale up or you’re already managing a growing team, this guide will walk you through the key steps to sustainable growth in the cleaning industry.
Why Sustainable Growth Matters
Rapid expansion might sound attractive, but without the right foundations it can lead to burnout, high staff turnover and quality issues. Sustainable growth means building a business that can thrive long-term, where your systems, people, and profits grow in harmony.
1. Systemise Your Operations Early
One of the biggest barriers to growth is relying too heavily on the owner for day-to-day decisions. Systemisation – creating clear, repeatable processes for every aspect of your business frees you up to focus on strategy and leadership.
- Document Every Process: Start with your core services, then add systems for recruitment, training, scheduling, and quality control.
- Use Digital Tools: Invest in scheduling software, client management systems, and digital checklists to streamline operations.
- Create an Operations Manual: This becomes your team’s go-to resource and helps maintain consistency as you grow.
2. Recruit for Culture and Potential
As you scale, your team becomes your greatest asset. Hiring the right people, and keeping them, will make or break your growth plans.
- Define Your Values: Make sure every new hire aligns with your company’s mission and values.
- Standardise Recruitment: Use structured interviews and clear job descriptions to ensure consistency.
- Onboard Thoroughly: A strong induction process helps new staff feel confident and reduces early turnover.
3. Build a Leadership Team
You can’t manage 50 people alone. Start identifying and developing supervisors or team leaders as your business grows.
- Promote from Within: Invest in training and mentoring for team members who show leadership potential.
- Delegate Responsibility: Empower your leaders to manage schedules, handle client feedback, and support their teams.
4. Focus on Financial Management
Growth brings new financial challenges. You’ll need robust budgeting, cash flow management, and pricing strategies to ensure profitability.
- Track Key Metrics: Monitor turnover, gross profit, and staff costs monthly.
- Review Pricing Regularly: As your costs and value proposition evolve, make sure your pricing reflects your service quality.
- Plan for Investment: Growing teams may require new equipment, vehicles, or software so budget for these in advance.
5. Maintain Quality as You Scale
Consistent service is essential for client retention and reputation, especially as your team expands.
- Implement Quality Control Systems: Use regular audits, client feedback, and spot checks.
- Train Continuously: Schedule regular refresher training for all staff.
- Reward Excellence: Recognise and reward high-performing employees to reinforce standards.
6. Prioritise Communication
With more employees, clear communication becomes even more important.
- Use Digital Platforms: Group chats, scheduling apps, and regular team meetings keep everyone connected.
- Solicit Feedback: Encourage open communication from all levels of the business.
7. Look After Yourself and Your Team
Sustainable growth isn’t just about numbers, it’s about people. Protect your own work-life balance and support your team’s wellbeing.
- Delegate and Step Back: Trust your systems and your leaders.
- Promote Wellbeing: Offer flexible hours, recognition, and opportunities for advancement.
Final Thoughts
Scaling from 5 to 50 employees is a major step for any cleaning business owner. By focusing on systemisation, recruitment, leadership, financial management, quality control, and communication, you’ll set your business up for sustainable, long-term success.
If you’re ready to take your cleaning business to the next level, or you’re facing challenges with growth, book a free DCBN Discovery call to find out how membership can help:
