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    msowens's Avatar
    msowens Posts: 41, Reputation: 2
    Junior Member
     
    #1

    Mar 1, 2012, 11:21 AM
    What businesses should I approach for cleaning contracts
    Where are good places / businesses should I contact with cold calls for cleaning contracts?
    Stringer's Avatar
    Stringer Posts: 3,733, Reputation: 770
    Business Expert
     
    #2

    Mar 1, 2012, 04:16 PM
    Are you just starting your business? Do you have any contracts presently? Are you incorporated and insured?

    May I also ask what level of experience you have already?

    Thanks,

    Stringer
    msowens's Avatar
    msowens Posts: 41, Reputation: 2
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    #3

    Mar 1, 2012, 06:04 PM
    I been cleaning for a few years but I established my own business in 2010 and had contracts. I recently moved am trying to secure new contracts. I am licensed
    Stringer's Avatar
    Stringer Posts: 3,733, Reputation: 770
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    #4

    Mar 1, 2012, 06:37 PM
    Am I a bit confused Ms Owens haven't we spoken before on here at some point or am I imagining it? It's been a long day... :)

    Anyway, what have you tired so far?

    Stinger
    msowens's Avatar
    msowens Posts: 41, Reputation: 2
    Junior Member
     
    #5

    Mar 4, 2012, 07:01 PM
    Yes we have spoke before Stringer & this was suppose to be a good year.. I been passing out business cards, networking, word of mouth and cold calls. What else can I do? HELP
    Stringer's Avatar
    Stringer Posts: 3,733, Reputation: 770
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    #6

    Mar 4, 2012, 08:56 PM
    Luck comes with hard work Ms Owens. Keep doing what you are and talk to anyone and everyone, even neighbors and friends they may know someone that knows someone.

    "Failure is not an option." You have to be determined that you will do whatever it takes. That has always been my attitude; it's been 20 years now and we are very successful, you can too.

    Stringer
    Stringer's Avatar
    Stringer Posts: 3,733, Reputation: 770
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    #7

    Mar 4, 2012, 09:23 PM
    To answer your question, I would approach small offices first say 3,000 to 5,000 sq ft. You may find some initial success there.

    Try business parks and warehouse parks (they have 3,000 + sq ft offices). Try to stay in the same area as they are easier to control.

    Stringer
    msowens's Avatar
    msowens Posts: 41, Reputation: 2
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    #8

    Mar 5, 2012, 10:21 AM
    I keep trying to tell myself that all it takes is that one person and it will go from there, It is a very competitive market out here, so I'm trying to figure out what areas they lack in, but I am offering 50% off first cleaning (Is that a good idea to attract attention) Are there any other ideas or suggestions you can offer? I appreciate you mentorship
    Stringer's Avatar
    Stringer Posts: 3,733, Reputation: 770
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    #9

    Mar 5, 2012, 10:31 AM
    Offering a discount such as this in the commercial end of our business isn't appropriate usually Ms Owens. It shows a level of residential cleaning that isn't usually seen in commercial. Somehow it appears not too professional I fear.

    It will come if you are passively aggressive and wear out the shoe leather.

    Yes it is very competitive but those who continue spending the time knocking on doors (and following up) and learning with persevere. You have the desire and I hope you have the fire in your belly.

    Stringer
    msowens's Avatar
    msowens Posts: 41, Reputation: 2
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    #10

    Mar 5, 2012, 12:56 PM
    I am offering that to the residential not the commercial, I do both. But what is something that can be offered to the commercial ?
    msowens's Avatar
    msowens Posts: 41, Reputation: 2
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    #11

    Mar 5, 2012, 01:09 PM
    What is something or service that can be offered to catch their attention? I am in the process in making my flyers so I can advertise the services or specials on there
    Stringer's Avatar
    Stringer Posts: 3,733, Reputation: 770
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    #12

    Mar 5, 2012, 02:32 PM
    Quote Originally Posted by msowens View Post
    What is something or service that can be offered to catch their attention? I am in the process in making my flyers so I can advertise the services or specials on there
    Flyers work for residential not so much for commercial Ms Owens. You need to put something together in a brochure form and take it to a printer so it looks more professional, UPS/Kinko's or some place like them. They will also help with suggestions. Leave these behind along with your card.

    Keep knocking and I don't remember do you have a website? And TALK to everyone.

    Stringer
    msowens's Avatar
    msowens Posts: 41, Reputation: 2
    Junior Member
     
    #13

    Mar 5, 2012, 03:42 PM
    Yes I have a website you can look at it and see if it covers all the areas www.pccsvs.webs.com
    Stringer's Avatar
    Stringer Posts: 3,733, Reputation: 770
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    #14

    Mar 5, 2012, 06:22 PM
    Are you in Brocton? Is this you?

    Stringer
    msowens's Avatar
    msowens Posts: 41, Reputation: 2
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    #15

    Mar 6, 2012, 11:13 AM
    Yes I am. I created a brochure, are handouts / postcards a good idea also. What is a service I can offer to attract their attention
    Stringer's Avatar
    Stringer Posts: 3,733, Reputation: 770
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    #16

    Mar 6, 2012, 05:09 PM
    Quote Originally Posted by msowens View Post
    Yes I am. I created a brochure, are handouts / postcards a good idea also. What is a service I can offer to attract their attention
    One of the best ways is to get the person's email address and send them a brief email. Include your website on it but be BRIEF Ms Owens if you're not they won't take the time to read it. No more than 2 paragraphs or maybe three small ones.

    Tell them who you are, what you do (include your email and phone numbers), ask them to be put on their 'bidding list' and that you are always available.

    Stringer
    msowens's Avatar
    msowens Posts: 41, Reputation: 2
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    #17

    Mar 6, 2012, 06:41 PM
    Thanks, I'll put that to use and see what the outcome will be
    Stringer's Avatar
    Stringer Posts: 3,733, Reputation: 770
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    #18

    Mar 6, 2012, 07:46 PM
    Quote Originally Posted by msowens View Post
    Thanks, I'll put that to use and see what the outcome will be
    Perseverance.
    msowens's Avatar
    msowens Posts: 41, Reputation: 2
    Junior Member
     
    #19

    Mar 7, 2012, 10:25 AM
    I will definitely keep that in mind

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