Episode 1152 – How Clear Expectations Lead to Bigger Wins
Setting the Stage: Celebrating Wins
In this episode, Mike Campion shares some golden nuggets from recent coaching calls with clients. The episode kicks off with a shout-out to Jessica, who’s celebrating a big win—landing a 4,500 square foot cleaning job and nailing it this time around. Jessica opens up about her initial struggle with a similar-sized house, where poor time management and misaligned expectations led to a less-than-stellar outcome. But she bounced back, set clear boundaries, and ensured her team was prepared. Her story is a testament to learning from past mistakes and the power of proper planning and communication.
The Power of Setting Expectations
Mike then dives into a vital lesson for all cleaning business owners: setting the right expectations with clients. He shares a personal anecdote about dining at a high-end restaurant, where even the tiniest billing error can ruin an otherwise great experience. The takeaway? Clients often don’t know what they truly want; they just want to feel good when they come home. It’s our job to set the right expectations—like knowing they’ll get a clean house, but not necessarily a perfect one. By managing these expectations, you avoid unnecessary stress and ensure everyone ends up happier.
Core Values: The Backbone of Success
Core values aren’t just fancy words; they’re the backbone of your business. Mike emphasizes the importance of having clear, memorable core values that guide every action and decision in your company. He shares his own company’s values: “Have fun, make money, be real, help out.” These aren’t just slogans; they’re practical guides for behavior. Whether it’s addressing a dress code issue or ensuring punctuality, these core values help align your team and set a standard for your company culture.
Communication is Key
Mike also talks about the importance of open communication, especially in weekly meetings. It’s not enough for you as the owner to know the core values; your team needs to internalize them too. He suggests making these values a regular part of discussions and letting team members share how they see these values in action. This approach not only reinforces the values but also makes everyone feel involved and valued.
The Art of Asking Questions
The episode wraps up with Mike offering some coaching advice on how to get more out of team meetings. He encourages asking open-ended questions and genuinely listening to the answers. This not only helps you understand your team’s mindset but also fosters a more supportive and engaging work environment. So, if your team is silent when you ask a question, don’t be afraid to dig deeper. It’s all about building a culture where everyone feels comfortable and valued.
In summary, this episode is a masterclass in setting expectations, living by your core values, and fostering open communication. It’s a must-listen for anyone looking to build a successful and harmonious cleaning business.