In this article, I’ll give you tips for starting a window cleaning business, specifically how to get a customer base. Many of the principles will help you become a professional window cleaner.
1. Be professional.
Being professional starts before you even look for window cleaning clients. You must make sure that your image is attractive. Little things like having clean clothes, neatly trimmed hair, good personal hygiene, and a smile all have a huge positive impact on someone when they open the door for you. Would you let a scruffy dressed smelly person you don’t know work at your house? I did not think. Next, keep a well-prepared message in mind. Something like “Hi, I am a local window cleaner and I was wondering if you need a window cleaner.” It’s short, polite, and to the point.
2. Get business cards.
The business card is the basis of all your advertising for your window cleaning business. Your business card should be well designed and have all your relevant details without being cluttered. You should put your card in the hands of as many people as you can, including friends, family, current clients, and prospective window cleaning clients. You are ready to hit the streets!
3. Scrutiny, scrutiny, scrutiny !!!
Asking clients for window cleaning to some may seem demeaning, almost ‘begging’ for work. For that reason, many send thousands of flyers by hand, which is not an effective use of their time, or through local newspapers or magazines, which can be expensive. In my experience, homeowners like to see the window cleaner that they will deal with each month. In my experience, the most effective way to probe is by knocking on all the doors on the street and making sure to speak to the owner of each house, not the children, the babysitter, the gardener, etc. Talking to each individual is much more effective than pushing a steering wheel through the door. When was the last time you looked at a flyer and bought that product? Probably never. Going in person to advertise your window cleaning business gives you an instant personal touch that is essential. After all, as their window cleaner, you will have access to their property and they will want to be able to trust you. The first key to being confident is knowing what you look like!
4. Respond professionally.
If the head of household refuses your window cleaning services, politely ask him to leave you a business card in case you need a window cleaner in the future, or if you have a friend who needs a window cleaner. This has the same effect as a steering wheel, but at least they have met you and will recognize you when you are cleaning windows on their street in the future. If the head of the household asks you to give them a quote, be sensible in your price for them, but more importantly, for yourself. The price of window cleaning is an item in itself. If they accept your quote, again, be professional. Have a neat A5 book that you can write your details on, not an old piece of paper that can be easily lost. Accurately record the individual’s house number, street name, and last name. DO NOT ask for their phone number. This is a step too far in terms of obtaining personal information on your initial call. They will offer this to you when they are ready. Next, try to give an idea of when you will call to clean the windows. Be as quick as possible, say, “May I call to clean your windows the day after tomorrow.” Whenever you agree to a time, make sure you stick to it. The key to a successful window cleaning business is being dependable.
5. Have your own website.
Gone are the days when people used that big color book to find a window cleaner. Now, more people use the Internet than ever. With a little research, you can crack Google and get to the top spot without sending a penny! My website was designed by a friend of mine initially, but I learned how to adjust it to increase my ranking on Google. My website now ranks first in virtually all of the following searches: Telford window cleaner, Telford window cleaner, Telford window cleaner, etc. These are the likely searches someone will do in my area for a window cleaner. A website will generate a surprising amount of interest for a relatively small outlay. In many cases, it is cheaper than advertising on ‘paper’.
In conclusion, if you want to build a good customer base for your window cleaning business, there is nothing better than adding a personal touch to your service. As your window cleaner, you will be in frequent contact with the same people and their property. Be dependable, courteous, professional, and pay attention to detail. Here are the tips and secrets for starting a window cleaning business through probing.
