It is always a tough relationship between the policy holder and the insurance company. Your job is at least partly to keep all parties happy. One hapless Kansas mold remediation contractor got caught in the middle. Steve gives him some hints on how to stay out of this trap in the future …
All of us work better with goals AND rewards. So what perks (other than money) can you offer your employees to recognize/reward them?
A Minnesota carpet cleaner asks how he can easily promote Scotchgard protector on his website. Steve shares one great resource and an even better promotional idea …
Nothing is worse than a raving angry call from a regular commercial carpet cleaning customer who discovers your crew left his or her business unlocked all night! Stop this particular nightmare forever with this week’s “quickTIP” …
A few reflections on the many routes to success in this business. I would vote we go by water …
Hidden cameras, intercoms, even an open window can all lead to BIG negative Moments of Truth. Keep things on the straight and narrow by reminding your people that they are constantly being observed,
After moving to Georgia a carpet cleaner is finding it difficult to get the old cash flow started again. Instead of screaming “Get out there and sell!” Steve says to begin at home with the old-fashioned concept of “frugality” …
When you have many losses to choose from you should pick your most profitable “sweet spot” losses using these questions.
All of us (and especially you solo owner operators) should think about the fragile line between good health and winding up disabled in just one instant. And we’re not just talking health. Instead, think what would happen to your family’s economic security if you lose one, two, three or more months of work …
The condition of your equipment represents the image of your company. Here is one example of how to always make the best impression by “double-dipping” …
Steve,
Just a short question. I’ve always felt like I should be able to charge a premium rate for night or weekend work. However, when I bring this idea up to other carpet cleaners they act like I’ve hit on their mother! What did you do and if you did charge more, how much over your regular rates was it and did you get any resistance?
Perplexed in Toledo
Life is too short for a cleaning professional to pass his or her day down in the dumps. Plus any attitude (good or bad) is highly “contagious”. Here is one tip to keep a sour viewpoint from creeping up on you …
Business is going great! Now there are big questions on the horizon. What to do next?
While carpet cleaning can be physically demanding work, there is no need to be a brute about it. Thinking ahead to avoid unnecessary damage can save time, save money and most importantly impress your customers. See how these principles are applied to moving “large dressers”.
One recent SFS graduate asks how she can add a monthly payment for future programmed maintenance cleanings into the lease. While Steve is no lawyer (thank goodness!) he does share some ideas…