Episode 1173 – From Reviews to Relationships: An Ask Me Anything Special!
Effective Use of Client Testimonials in Commercial Cleaning
Mike and Lindsay tackled some intriguing questions in their Facebook LIve, focusing on how to leverage client testimonials for commercial cleaning businesses. The discussion kicked off with a query from Spokane Office Cleaning about the value of client testimonials, both written and video. Mike emphasized that while testimonials are great for building trust, especially in residential cleaning where people are more cautious about letting strangers into their homes, they might not be as crucial for commercial clients. In the commercial sector, building personal relationships and trust is more effective than relying solely on testimonials. Mike suggested tailoring testimonials to match the specific pain points of potential clients and integrating them into your sales process rather than creating a marketing campaign around them.
Evaluating Franchise Options for Growing Your Business
Next, Mike responded to Adriana’s question about buying a franchise to grow her commercial cleaning business. He praised Adriana for having a clear niche but cautioned against the franchise model, particularly if it takes a large percentage of revenue. Mike highlighted that franchises often require significant fees and can significantly reduce profit margins, sometimes leaving business owners with little to no profit. For those looking to build a sustainable business without being bogged down by franchise fees, Mike recommended focusing on direct client acquisition and growth strategies rather than relying on franchises.
Maximizing Training Efficiency for New Employees
Laura May asked about the most effective ways to train new employees, expressing frustration with the time and cost involved when new hires don’t work out. Mike advised against relying solely on training videos, emphasizing that core values and hiring the right people are more crucial. He argued that a strong company culture and clear expectations often result in better performance than detailed training alone. For Mike, the key to effective training lies in hiring individuals who align with the company’s values and then providing them with the necessary tools and autonomy to succeed.
When to Invest in Specialty Equipment
Joseph’s question about when to invest in specialty equipment, like auto scrubbers, was met with a pragmatic approach. Mike recommended only purchasing such equipment if it will generate at least $10,000 in monthly recurring revenue. He noted that the costs associated with acquiring and maintaining specialty equipment can be substantial, including the expenses of transportation, storage, and maintenance. For lower-volume jobs, Mike suggested outsourcing the work to avoid the overhead and potential headaches associated with owning and operating such equipment.
Final Thoughts on the Q&A Session
The podcast wrapped up with Mike reflecting on the value of these ask-me-anything sessions. He praised the diverse range of questions and encouraged listeners to continue engaging with these discussions. Mike emphasized that the quality of coaching and advice is directly tied to the questions asked, underscoring the importance of clear and specific queries to get the most out of such sessions.