Episode 1260 – Why Losing One Big Client Should Scare You—and How to Fix It Fast
In this episode of Ask Mike Anything, cleaning company coach Mike Campion answers real questions from real owners dealing with real challenges. From sudden client loss to hiring salespeople to interview tips, Mike pulls no punches—and drops gold along the way.
Let’s break it down, Mike Campion-style: clear, honest, and a little spicy.
1. Haley Lost Half Her Business in One Week
Haley’s cleaning business took a huge hit—over $10,000 a month gone almost overnight. The reason? Factory clients closed up shop due to the economy. Here’s the wisdom Mike shared—no fluff, just real advice:
- Own What You Can Control: Mike drops a truth bomb: “Extreme ownership.” You can’t control the economy, but you can control your response.
- Dig Your Well Before You’re Thirsty: Don’t wait until you’re in trouble to start marketing. Commercial contracts take time—start building your next wave now.
- Diversify Your Clients: Serving one industry or depending on one big client is risky. Spread the love and protect your biz from sudden drops.
- Know Your Timeline: If you can survive 3–6 months, rebuild smart. If you can’t make rent, take a job for now. No shame in protecting your family.
- Act Today, Not Someday: Mike’s message is clear—“This might not be your fault, but it is your problem. Own it, fix it, grow stronger.”
2. Robin Asked: How Do I Hire a Commission-Only Salesperson?
Mike’s take: “Please don’t.” And here’s why:
- They’re not free. Whether it’s your brand, your leads, or your time—you’re paying in some way.
- Good salespeople know their worth. If someone’s truly great, they won’t work for just a piece of the pie unless that pie is massive.
- Commission-only rarely works. Mike hasn’t seen one work out in all his coaching calls. Not one.
- Better Plan: On the commercial side, do the sales yourself. You can build a multi-million dollar biz with just a few hours a week of sales work. Own the relationships, own the growth.
Bonus tip: If you’re doing residential and already have lots of leads? Commission might work—but only if the leads are flowing and you can truly hand them off.
3. Chelsea’s Tired of Her Interview Questions
Chelsea’s question: “I’m bored with my group interview questions. Any fresh ideas?”
Mike’s answer: Don’t change what’s working just because you’re bored. Boredom is not the same as broken. Instead:
- Stick to what works—if your questions get results, don’t toss them.
- If they stop working? That’s when you upgrade them.
- Ask “what would you do” questions about real challenges (e.g., “What if your partner didn’t show up?”)
Always follow up with “why”—that’s where the real insights live. - Rotate interviewers instead of questions if you’re feeling stale.
Mike even compares it to marriage: “I love my wife, but if I’m bored with her, I don’t go shopping for a new one.”
Final Word from Mike
This episode’s big takeaway?
“It may not be your fault—but it is your problem. The sooner you own it, the faster you can fix it.”
Whether you’re dealing with lost clients, trying to grow your sales team, or revamping your hiring process, don’t wait for a meltdown to make your next move. Act now. Think long-term. Own your growth.
Want help putting a real plan in place? Visit GrowMyCleaningCompany.com/talk and grab a free coaching call with Mike’s team.