Running a commercial cleaning company involves more than just ensuring facilities and spaces are workable and germ-free. While you can offer a wide range of services, it is crucial to maintain a steady stream of work and clients to keep your dusters dusting and brooms sweeping.
To achieve this, you need to be proactive in bidding for work, which can be challenging whether you are a seasoned cleaner or a beginner. In fact, many commercial cleaning contractors have reported significant business growth by using janitorial cleaning software solutions. Consequently, this guide explores various types of cleaning bids and provides strategies on how to approach them to grow your cleaning business.
Common Types of Commercial Cleaning Facilities
These businesses and facilities are usually popular among commercial cleaners:
- Healthcare facilities
- Offices
- Retail shops
- Restaurants
- Factories
- Schools
- Research and development facilities
- Government facilities
However, you should not limit yourself to specific types of bids. Although specializing in a particular industry can be advantageous, beginners should consider a broader range of opportunities. Therefore, there are numerous potential clients out there.
Different Types of Commercial Cleaning Bids
Understanding the various types of commercial cleaning bids is crucial:
1. Private jobs
You can discover private cleaning jobs through personal ads (both online and offline) and message boards. These platforms are excellent for posting your services and finding residential or small commercial cleaning bids. Moreover, it’s advisable to market yourself for overall, deep, and specialty cleaning, noting that house cleaning requirements differ significantly from those of commercial facilities.
2. Commercial and business contracts
For larger business contracts, consider local classifieds and registers. Additionally, don’t hesitate to reach out to offices in your area to understand their cleaning needs. Starting points include buildings, apartment complexes, individual offices, storefronts, and other commercial facilities.
3. Government contract
Securing government bids can be a valuable opportunity in the commercial cleaning industry. To begin, register with the US General Services Administration and explore websites with .mil or .gov domains. Government agencies, such as post offices and public schools, might require your services.
Factors to Consider before Bidding on Cleaning Contracts
1. Travel, logistics, and expenses
Travel time and logistics play a crucial role in selecting targeted clients. Therefore, travel costs represent a significant expense and should be considered when targeting contracts. Calculate all costs associated with traveling to different clients. Additionally, a web app for janitorial and engineering services can assist in managing these aspects effectively.
Furthermore, researching areas where you can provide services efficiently is important. Clustering multiple cleaning accounts in the same geographic location can save time and reduce costs. This approach minimizes the risk of missed jobs due to traffic and simplifies logistics.
2. Services on offer
There are various cleaning services available, and you may not want to offer all of them. For instance, you might consider offering engineering and maintenance services along with regular cleaning as part of the contract. Creating a menu of offered services can simplify the bidding and pricing process.
Variables such as the frequency of cleaning and the scope of work impact the cost to the customer and your time commitment. For example, the level of cleaning, such as high dusting, should be considered when pricing. Offering dedicated services may help secure clients but can also impact your profit margins. Therefore, ensure that you price services correctly to maintain profitability while meeting client needs.
Pricing a Commercial Cleaning Bid
The scope, level, and frequency of service ultimately determine the price of a cleaning contract. For instance, cleaning a restaurant kitchen requires more time and specialized supplies compared to cleaning a pantry in an office complex. Consequently, an hourly rate pricing model can be effective for such services.
It’s essential to communicate expectations clearly in the contract. Therefore, take a consultative approach to understand client needs and customize cleaning schedules accordingly. Strive to balance the scope and frequency of work to meet client desires while ensuring profitability. Outline conditions and set a price that aligns with client expectations and your business needs.
Getting the Right Clients
Commercial cleaning contracts don’t appear magically. To build a name and secure clients, you must invest time and money in your business. Here are steps to attract the right clients:
1. Determine the target customer
Almost every commercial facility requires a cleaning service that understands its specific needs. Facilities like offices, small businesses, industrial shops, hospitals, and schools have unique cleaning requirements. Developing a niche based on these needs can set you apart from competitors.
2. Research competition
Understand what your competitors are offering. Large national franchises may have extensive resources, so you need to differentiate your services. Emphasize any unique selling points, such as eco-friendly products or specialized experience, to attract clients.
3. Create an online presence
An online presence is crucial for credibility. Potential clients often search online before hiring a business. Therefore, having a digital presence makes it easier for clients to find you and trust your services.
4. Focus on networking
Networking is key to winning commercial cleaning contracts. Utilize digital marketing, attend meetings with facility supervisors, and partner with local businesses. Referrals from real estate offices and other local connections can be valuable.
5. Joint a trade association
Membership in a nationally recognized association, such as the International Janitorial Cleaning Services Association (IJCSA) or Worldwide Cleaning Industry Association (ISSA), provides credibility and networking opportunities. It can help you connect with other businesses and find job opportunities.
6. Invest in a cleaning business software
Securing new clients is only part of the process. Retaining them requires efficient operations. Janitorial software can streamline cleaning tasks, improve communication, and enhance overall efficiency. This helps you meet customer expectations and manage your business more effectively.
Tips to Source and Win Viable Cleaning Bids
These are a few tips that can help janitorial services find and win commercial cleaning contracts:
1. Understand the Buyer’s Needs
Avoid using boilerplate bids. Instead, tailor your responses based on the customer’s specific needs for better results.
2. Balance Layman’s Terms and Jargon
Use clear communication that balances technical terms with layman’s language. This approach can increase your chances of winning contracts.
3. Price the Job Right
Conduct a site visit to get a fair understanding of the job requirements. Implement a definitive pricing system for consistent results across various facilities.
By following these strategies, you can effectively navigate the competitive landscape of commercial cleaning and grow your business.
Get in Touch to Elevate Your Commercial Cleaning Bidding Process
Ready to elevate your commercial cleaning business to new heights? At Ranyan Janitorial Management Software, we are committed to helping you streamline your bidding process and enhance your business operations. Whether you need detailed advice on optimizing your bids or are interested in exploring our innovative management tools, we are here to assist you every step of the way.
To get in touch, you can easily email us at info@ranyan.com. Additionally, you are welcome to visit us at 66 W. Flagler Street, Suite 900 Miami, FL 33130. We are eager to support you in achieving your business goals and look forward to your contact. Therefore, do not hesitate to reach out to us today!
