Episode 1213 – The Dream Team Formula: Pay, Values, and Performance in Cleaning
How to Keep Your Cleaning Team Consistent and Efficient
Mike and Lindsay took some time to answer questions from Cleaning Nation, tackling tough challenges cleaning business owners face. One question from Jenny really stood out: how to keep your team on the same page despite having checklists, routines, and standard operating procedures (SOPs). Mike’s take? It’s not always about training—it’s about having the right people on your team. If the person’s core values align with the company’s, they’ll naturally do their best, even with minimal training. It’s about hiring for attitude and values, not just skills.
Paying Your Cleaners Fairly (and Not Just for the Job)
Allison asked about handling requests for higher pay and how to incentivize cleaners. Mike’s advice? Pay your people fairly—above average, but not excessively. A good rule of thumb is to aim for 10-15% more than the going rate in your area. But there’s more to motivation than just money. Cleaners want to feel valued and part of something bigger. The most engaged employees care about the culture and mission behind the work, not just the paycheck. A sincere “thank you” can go a long way in making your team feel appreciated.
Dealing with Slow Cleaners: Training or Values?
James asked what to do when cleaners are consistently slow. Mike explains that there’s often a misunderstanding between quality and speed. Sometimes, slower cleaners still do a great job—they just take longer. It’s essential to assess whether the slower pace is due to inefficiency or a lack of care. If your employees aren’t trying to meet the expectations, it’s a values issue, not a training one. As an owner, you need to set the standard and ensure your team feels accountable to your core values, which includes working efficiently and doing a good job.
Track Your Team’s Time Without Getting Micromanaging
When it comes to tracking how long it takes to clean, Mike suggests using technology to keep things simple. Time tracking software can help monitor productivity and flag any issues. While Mike doesn’t think you need to track every minute, keeping an eye on your team’s average performance is a good practice. If someone is consistently slow, it’s an issue that needs addressing—whether through feedback, training, or potentially parting ways if they’re not a good fit for the job.
Wrapping Up: Building a Strong Team Culture
In the end, the key to running a successful cleaning business is building a strong team culture. When you have the right people, the job gets done, and your clients are happy. From providing fair pay to ensuring your cleaners are aligned with your core values, creating a positive work environment will lead to long-term success. And as Mike always says, it’s not just about managing your team; it’s about leading them with purpose and helping them feel like they’re part of something meaningful.