When clients come to us, it’s usually because they’re not satisfied with their current cleaning provider. After we present our case for why we’re a great fit for their cleaning needs, most of them ask two primary questions:
“My current cleaning company just bailed! What should Ido?”
Let’s look at a common situation:
Facility Manager: “Bob, we’re still not getting the results we expect. We’ve decided to go with a new janitorial service. I understand we’re required to give 30 days’ notice per the agreement, so I’m letting you know today that we’ll be transitioning to another company.”
Bob: “Got it. I’ll inform the team. I just wish you’d given us more heads-up.”
Fast forward a week, and Bob leaves a voicemail for theFacility Manager:
Bob: “Hey, after I told the team they’d be out of work in 30 days, they all quit faster than a train headed out of town. I packed up over the weekend, and I’m out. If you ever need anything, feel free to reach out. I hope we can work together again sometime!”
Panicked, the Facility Manager immediately contacts the new cleaning provider:
Facility Manager: “ACME just let me know they’re not coming back, and the plant manager said there’s no toilet paper in the main restroom. Can you get here immediately?”
The Realities of StartingJanitorial Services
Reality #1 – Finding the Right Team Takes TimeThere’s a common misunderstanding that cleaning companies are like temp agencies, with an endless supply of workers on standby, ready to go at a moment’s notice. That’s not the case. We carefully assemble a team that’s the right fit for each client, considering factors like the mix of male and female staff and balancing full-time and part-time positions. This requires a thoughtful recruitment process, not a quick fix.
Reality #2 – A Thorough Plan is Key for EffectiveCleaning While janitorial tasks aren’t highly technical, they still require a clear and detailed plan to ensure the work is completed efficiently. A good plan outlines how and when each part of the job will be done, ensuring all tasks are executed in the right order. This includes detailed cleaning routines for team members, task checklists, and a focus on maintaining consistency in quality.
Reality #3 – Proper Training is a Must Although cleaning seems straightforward, it involves more than most people realize. Each team member needs to be thoroughly trained on how to use the equipment, which cleaning products are safe for various surfaces, and how to complete tasks like sweeping, mopping, and dusting effectively. Safety training is also essential to protect both the staff and your facility.
So, When Can You Start?
In most cases, it will take at least 3 to 4 weeks to get started. This timeframe allows us to hire the right staff, properly train them, and set up an effective work plan tailored to your needs.
But What If There’s an Immediate Need?
If you’re in an urgent situation, such as running out of toilet paper in the restroom, here’s what you can do to bridge the gap during the transition:
Following these steps can help ensure your facility remains functional and clean throughout the transition to your new janitorial provider.
