Successful Cleaning Business on expanding and customer concerns
Hello, I have a cleaning service and is very successful right now. I have over 15 clients that I have gained within 6 months. They love my cleaning because I offer quality cleaning and affordable rates. I am running into some concerns now that I am becoming well known for my cleaning in my area. I have been in business now for 1 year and 7 months.
The first is I have quite a few customers that I have given a low rate to because I was cleaning on my own. I have gotten to the point now where I have to hire employees and I have more overhead. If I keep certain ones at the rate I have them at, I will be losing money and time. At the same time she has referred me to quite a few clients. Quite a few of my clients has referred me to their friends. Should I increase my rate on them? If so, how much should I increase. (Example: I have a job that takes me 4 hours to clean, average rate within my area is $30/hr.) If I do that, then it will be a big jump to the rate I have given to quite a few of my clients. What should I do?
Secondly, with my business expanding I have to get more help. My clients love my work so much they are not at the time comfortable with me having my trained employee come clean for them. What should I do? Should I hold off from expanding right now or inform my clients that I must get help? Any and all advice are appreciated?
I am thinking about writing up a letter to the clients that I need to increase my rates and informing them about the rate increase. I am also thinking about if I should call or meet with my clients to talk with them about my employees? Please help! Thanks in advance!:)