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Franchisee Spotlight – Donald Valdery, Corvus of New Orleans

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Corvus is excited to introduce the “Franchisee Spotlight Series” to our blog. Every month, we will be highlighting Franchise Owners who go above and beyond To Make Lives Better. This month on the center stage is Corvus of New Orleans Franchise Owner Donald Valdery.

To keep up with the Franchisee Spotlight Series and all things Corvus, follow us on Instagram! @corvus_janitorial_franchising

Franchise Owner Mr. Donald Valdery started his cleaning business in May 2020, and he has already made a noteworthy impact in New Orleans. In just seven months, Mr. Valdery has brought consistency, attention to detail, charm, and a positive attitude to the New Orleans market.

Mr. Valdery is incredible at meeting new customers and taking control of the initial walkthrough. He sets realistic expectations with his customers on what will be accomplished in the first few months and explains that it will take some time to reach his high standards. Corvus of New Orleans Regional Director, Tommy Petagna, said that when joining Mr. Valdery on initial walkthroughs, “I keep my mouth shut, take a back seat, and let him do his thing.”

One of the many notable things about this standout Franchisee is his keen attention to detail. Mr. Valdery is extremely persistent- always sure to follow through on whatever it is that his customers need. In fact, his performance is so stellar that a customer personally called the Regional Director to say what a phenomenal job Mr. Valdery is doing and how impressed their office is by his terrific work ethic.

Tommy & Donald with masks
Corvus of New Orleans Franchisee, Donald Valdery and Regional Director, Tommy Petagna

Mr. Petagna and Mr. Valdery have known each other for the past five years and have a deep, mutual respect for one another. The Regional Director describes Mr. Valdery as a true partner- to himself and Corvus at large. Corvus of New Orleans attributes the standout Franchisee’s quick success to the deep pride he takes in his work. Since starting his Franchise, Mr. Valdery has taken on five days per week accounts, as well as helped Corvus expand their presence in the North Shore area of New Orleans.

Mr. Valdery has a huge heart and a smile that lights up the New Orleans office every time he comes in. At least once a month, he touches base with the New Orleans team to discuss his goals and how he plans to achieve them. Mr. Valdery has plans to do big things with his business, and the Corvus team has no doubt that he will do just that.

On behalf of everyone at Corvus Janitorial Systems, thank you Mr. Donald Valdery, for your hard work and dedication to your business. We are all so, so grateful for what you do!

Corvus Janitorial Systems Franchise Owner Reviews

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Reviews from Corvus Janitorial Franchisees:

Corvus of Charlotte:

“I would highly recommend Corvus of Charlotte; if you are looking to start your own janitorial business this is the right place they explain everything to you from the start not to mention Jodean, she is amazing she explains everything. She answers all of your questions and doubts and they really make you feel very comfortable and confident in yourself. I really do recommend this awesome place!”

Corvus of Chicago:

“I love being a Corvus Chicago Janitorial franchise owner. Dave and the Chicago team are great to work with and always respond to any questions I have. If there is an issue they are more than willing to work through it with me and provide necessary training and guidance.”

Corvus of Cincinnati:

“They have been some of the most helpful and motivated people I’ve met in a while. They give people the drive and hope to reach for their dreams. Corvus is the BEST. Christine and Josh helped me every step of the way.”

Corvus of Columbus:

“Corvus is one of the best franchise janitorial companies and I couldn’t have chosen a better company. They are very professional and will check on you to see how everything is going.”

Corvus of Denver:

“My partnership with Corvus has spanned over a decade, and it continues to grow in value and strength. The opportunity provided by the system, their people and their commitment has helped me grow my franchise multiple times over and I’m not done. I went with Corvus due to their reputation of quality, honesty and service, and have not been disappointed whatsoever. I’m proud to be on the Corvus team.”

Corvus of Indianapolis:

“I have been a franchisee with Corvus Janitorial for over a decade. They have partnered with me in every step of the way, from helping me find my own business, to always being available to talk about growth and strategy. They are the perfect fit for me and that is why I have been with them for 12 plus years. They work hard for their franchisees and have the systems and practices to ensure you will be successful if you put in the work. I would recommend them to anyone who is interested in starting their own business and willing to put in the hard work and effort to grow a successful business.”

Corvus of Jacksonville:

“I have been working with Corvus of Jacksonville for almost a year. The same day we did our training, we got our first contract. If you want to make money and be your own boss this is the place. Amy and Spencer are the best. If you are not working with this company yet, then you should sign up and experience the freedom to be your own boss and work your own hours. So, what’s stopping you?! The opportunity is right here with Corvus Janitorial Systems…”

Corvus of Lexington:

“My partnership with Corvus Janitorial Systems as a Franchise Owner has been a Great Experience. The collaboration was just what I was looking for to start my business. The team in place has worked with me at every level for growth and expansion. I feel like it is a true partnership.”

Corvus of Little Rock:

“I have been a franchise owner for the last 3 years. If you are looking for the freedom to be your own boss and make some good money, this is worth looking into!”

Corvus of Louisville:

“Currently own a franchise with them and I’ve had a great experience! Very professional people!”

Corvus of Nashville:

“If you are looking for a career that has a family atmosphere then look no further. Corvus is the place for you!”

Corvus of New Orleans:

“I LOVE CORVUS!!!!! Being a franchise owner with the New Orleans Team was the best decision I’ve made. I have exceeded the goals that I set for myself and can’t wait to see what the future holds. I will tell anyone – go for it you will not regret it!”

Corvus of Northwest Arkansas:

“My first year has been an amazing experience! Great clients! Great team at Corvus office! And Very supportive of my business! I’m excited about my future with the company”

Corvus of Orlando:

“I love my clients! Hands down working with Corvus has been life changing. The clientele is nice, professional and easy going. This makes cleaning their businesses a pleasure! I am 28, have been in Corvus for two years and can now say I am self employed with the majority of my income being generated through Corvus. I AM PROUD TO SAY THAT I AM A CORVUS FRANCHISEE!!”

Corvus of Raleigh-Durham:

“Just became one year old owning my first franchise with Corvus. I couldn’t express how happy and thrilled to be part of this great business. Want to give some props for the help that has been given. THANK YOU!!!!”

Corvus of St. Louis:

“What a great investment! As a franchise not only has the business been a great source of income for me it has been a reliable source of income for 7 of my crew members. We enjoy what we do and customer satisfaction is our motto. There’s nothing like walking out of a building that you have serviced and being able to feel the value of your work. Never underestimate the value of the janitor who just may become the boss”

Corvus Endorses H.R. 7079, the Clean Start: Back to Work Tax Credit Act

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As our country and communities continue to face the coronavirus head-on, it has never been more important that offices, schools, restaurants, food production facilities, and other businesses are thoroughly and effectively cleaned and disinfected. The reopening of the American economy and the return to workplaces by employees and patrons brings with it new health and safety concerns for employers. Ensuring the cleanliness and safety of workers, families, and society at large is a top priority as we continue to reopen.

In order for the economy to continue opening up, it is critical that businesses have sufficient resources to invest in creating and maintaining a healthy and safe environment for their workers and customers. This will entail businesses significantly improving upon their cleaning and disinfection practices in order to slow the transmission of COVID-19 and to create peace of mind in workers and customers alike.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and industry groups have all issued guidance that calls for increased frequency and scope of cleaning and disinfecting applications. The “new normal” for commercial cleaning standards will increase costs to businesses at a time of unprecedented revenue declines and uncertainty.

Federal legislation is needed to address the rising costs to businesses associated with enhanced cleaning and disinfection programs. It is for this reason that Corvus would like to thank Representatives Darin LaHood and Stephanie Murphy for introducing H.R. 7079, the Clean Start: Back to Work Tax Credit Act.

The bill, introduced in the House of Representatives in June, would create a $25,000 temporary tax credit per location (capped at $250,000 per business entity) for a business’ qualified cleaning expenses. H.R. 7079 allows business taxpayers a tax credit for 50% of their qualified cleaning expenses, such as amounts paid for cleaning services and products, tools, machinery, personal protective equipment (PPE), and other sanitary equipment, as well as training and certification in cleaning.

The Clean Start: Back to Work Tax Credit Act is a bipartisan bill that ensures businesses will be able to adequately protect employees and patrons and allow them to continue serving their communities. This commonsense legislation is critical in helping our nation’s businesses safeguard the health and safety of workers and customers and preventing further outbreaks of the novel coronavirus.

Corvus strongly urges members of the House, the Senate, and the White House to pass additional bipartisan stimulus that includes H.R. 7079, the Clean Start: Back to Work Tax Credit Act. Additionally, we encourage our teammates, franchise partners, customers, and communities to contact their local congressperson to show support for H.R. 7079.

To see the bill in its entirety and for more information on the Clean Start: Back to Work Tax Credit Act, click here.

How Coronavirus Will Change Your Office

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Now that restrictions are lifting, most of us are left wondering what post-coronavirus life will look like. The CDC is urging businesses, schools, and other facilities to follow updated practices as they re-open. Until we have a better understanding, an effective vaccine, and pre-COVID numbers, it’s up to us to ensure the health and safety of ourselves and the people around us. If you’re wondering how the coronavirus outbreak will change your office, there’s a lot here to consider.

Why Offices Employers and Employees Need to Adjust

We all need to continue doing our part in slowing the spread and ending this pandemic. If the numbers have gone down enough for your town to feel comfortable re-opening, that’s a good sign. But it doesn’t mean that we’re entirely in the clear yet. By following updating practices, keeping our distance, changing our office setups, and increasing our cleaning and disinfecting processes, we can keep ourselves and each other safe.

For the last few months, the majority of America’s workforce has been working from home. In a recent survey, 66% of workers reported that they’re not comfortable going back to their workplace the way things are right now. But if you work for a company that requires your physical presence at work each day now that restrictions are lifting, employers and employees will have to compromise. It’s up to employers to make their valued employees feel more comfortable, safe, and valued.

In the same survey, 64% of respondents would prefer the ability to wear a mask at work; 61% hope to maintain social distancing in the office, and 49% want to see limited numbers in workplace meetings. These are a few things that are easy to implement as offices reopen. And they’re a great start. But we all have to do more.

Why Office Spaces Need to Change

Most traditional office spaces have been set up in a way that doesn’t align with proper social distancing. After all, this is something that we didn’t see coming. But now, it’s time to adjust. Office spaces with open layouts, large conference rooms, shared workspaces, and a clear lack of division won’t survive the post-coronavirus world. Unless employers want to see their offices shut down again while their employees fight the virus at home, office spaces will have to change. They’ll need to create more space between cubicles or workspaces, break meetings into smaller groups, and operate at a reduced capacity until we know it’s safe again.

The CDC is recommending:

• Hazard assessments in the workplace
• Cloth face coverings at work (or more drastic protection measures if the area is deemed hazardous)
• Keeping six feet of distance between each individual
• Immediately sending symptomatic employees home
• Increasing air circulation in shared spaces
• Cleaning and disinfecting routinely

What the Post-Coronavirus Office will Look and Feel Like

The good news is that many offices are already implementing a lot of the changes we’ve talked about. In the short-term, many are occupying their offices at a reduced capacity. Some are suggesting that employees alternate their schedules so that only 50% of them are in the office at the same time. This would mean that in one workweek, 50% would be working in the office while the other 50% work from home. The following week, they’d switch. Large meetings are being canceled, moved to virtual, shortened, or broken up into smaller groups. Temperatures are being checked at the door. Face masks are being worn throughout the day.

Another change you’ll notice immediately is that your cubicle probably won’t look the way it did three months ago. At least some of them won’t. Ones with thick, high walls may remain. But others that serve as flimsy dividers that end at your chin will likely be improved or replaced. The same way fast-food chains, convenience, and grocery stores have implemented shields made of plexiglass or similar materials, we can expert similar enclosures from our office cubicles.

These are excellent changes to make until we have more substantial processes to rely on. But now that we know how quickly a simple virus can come along and shake up the whole world, we have to consider long-term changes, too. For experts, businesses, and many others, long-term requirements are clear. And one of the largest ones is updated and increased cleaning and disinfecting procedures. This is where Corvus Janitorial and our incredible franchisees come in.

The Bottom Line

For the foreseeable future, it’s important to follow the CDC’s updates closely. Changed office spaces, reduced capacities, consistent use of masks and social distancing, and increased cleaning and disinfecting procedures are all current recommendations. Almost all offices will need more cleaning and disinfecting services now that the scope of work has changed. What used to be a schedule of casual vacuuming, dusting, and light cleaning for many companies has now evolved into a true medical need. We need increased attention and care to keep ourselves, workers, our families, and our communities safe.

Corvus Janitorial can help meet these goals and mitigate the spread of the virus by providing more thorough, regular disinfection programs. Both the methods and the frequencies must be updated. In an ongoing effort to help fight against the spread of COVID, we’ve implemented a high-impact disinfection system with highly effective techniques that have been proven in other settings. These systems have been used in hospitals, clinics, and airlines to thoroughly and properly disinfect high-touch and high-traffic areas. We’re thrilled to be bringing these systems to your offices to keep you, your employees, and your families safe.

Our new disinfection processes include:

• Electrostatic sprayers
• ULV fogging
• UV light disinfection

Electrostatic sprayers use an electrical charge to apply a high-quality coating, cleaner, or disinfectant to the chosen surface. This makes it easier to cover more surface area, disinfect hard-to-reach areas, and eliminate any human error involved in manual disinfecting. This way, all surfaces are properly disinfected, not just the high-touch ones. Additionally, when disinfectants are applied this way, they don’t have to be wiped down. This eliminates the dwell time and increases its effectiveness.

ULV fogging is another service that is used by major airlines. This is a similar process, in which a pump and blower are used to atomize the cleaner or disinfectant and spread it in the air. This allows for greater coverage, disinfection or larger areas, and an efficient, effective process. Lastly, UV light disinfection stops germs, bacteria, and viruses in their tracks. Without the use of chemicals, this method relies on wavelengths of UV light that give you rapid and effective results. Our cleaning and disinfecting processes are a step above the rest. Call us today to see what we can do for you.

About Corvus Janitorial Systems

Founded in 2004 to make people’s lives better, Corvus is a full-service commercial cleaning franchisor that offers cleaning services through reputable local Franchisees. Corvus has been guided by its mission to transform people and transform places by consistently delivering independence, security, and freedom to Franchisees who deliver high-quality cleaning to offices, educational buildings, medical buildings/offices, recreational centers, industrial parks, and other spaces. The company has 17 regional support offices across the United States with nearly 900 Franchisees. For more information regarding Corvus, visit corvusjanitorial.com or corvusjanitorial.com/franchise for franchise information.

Corvus Franchise Owners Are Proud to Serve Essential Businesses

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We are all living through uncertain and unprecedented times. Corvus Janitorial franchise owners are stepping up to the challenges facing our nation. While many businesses have gone into lockdown, essential service providers have remained open. They have faced the coronavirus pandemic head-on. Essential workers are continuing to provide goods and services to the general population, and they do this despite often putting themselves at a greater risk of infection. From food distributors to medical facilities, manufacturers to law enforcement, Corvus wants to thank essential workers. We are proud to service essential businesses and the employees that keep them running. We are proud to support those that are keeping their doors open for the good of the public.

Individuals and businesses have had to make radical changes in their everyday lives. This is particularly true for essential businesses, and they’ve had to adapt their practices in response to the novel coronavirus outbreak. Keeping employees safe and healthy has always been important, but never before has the issue been so front-of-mind and clear. In this volatile time, businesses are rapidly updating their standards and procedures. Cleaning regimens have seen more attention than most other areas. We support these businesses and their efforts to ensure a safe, sanitary workplace. As such, we’ve done what we can to make it easier for them. Corvus franchise owners have been accommodating changes in the scope of their services. This flexibility helps us provide high-level, unapparelled services.

In labor-intensive, high-volume essential industries like manufacturing, updates are necessary. A growing number of Corvus customers are requesting changes. Increases in the frequency of cleaning services have been a common request. Enhanced disinfection programs and day porting services are also in demand. We’re proud of what our Franchisees have been doing to help the state of the nation. So, we want to highlight some of the stories we’ve encountered over the last few weeks.

Chicago Corvus Franchisee, Marquette Dewitt, exemplifies our high standard of customer care. He has cleaned for Packaging Corporation of America for the last three years. Marquette and his team have expanded beyond their regular, after-hours cleaning services. They have begun day porting at the facility for four hours each day. Included in the expanded scope of service is routine, comprehensive disinfection. “With all that’s been going on with coronavirus, I am grateful to be able to provide these businesses – and their employees – with peace of mind. Being able to do my part to help essential businesses operate smoothly and safely is a great feeling, and I’m proud to be their partner,” Marquette reflects.

Medical facilities are in particular need of extensive cleaning and disinfecting programs. Medical professionals are right on the front lines. They are combatting COVID-19 and saving lives each day. Alere Toxicology Services is an excellent example of an essential medical business. Pre-coronavirus, this company provided substance abuse testing (and continues to do so). But now, they have been administering COVID-19 tests in the New Orleans metro area, as well. Due to the nature of this work, they have altered their procedures to keep their clients safe. Franchise owner, Keelee Menina, and her crew have increased cleaning and disinfecting to three times per day. Ms. Menina says, “It has been humbling and inspiring to see the work they are doing to help our community. Our region got hit very hard initially, and businesses like Alere are saving lives. I’m just glad that my team and I can support their efforts”.

The Arkansas Regional Organ Recovery Agency (ARORA) is another important company. ARORA collaborates with hospitals to facilitate organ and tissue donations. Corvus franchise owners service ARORA’s facilities in Little Rock and Northwest Arkansas. In a letter to local Corvus management, they’ve reminded us that what we do is so important. ARORA’s Executive Director writes, “I wanted to share my appreciation to Corvus for the outstanding work done by the cleaning team at our office… Thank you for your employee’s dedication to keeping our office clean and sanitized”. It is our pleasure; thank you, ARORA, for all that you do in our communities!

Protecting the most vulnerable members of our society is more important than ever. This has been a major emphasis during the pandemic. The elderly are at particularly high risk for serious complications from SARS-CoV-2. Statistics from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlight the severity of this risk. “Eight of 10 deaths reported in the U.S. have been in adults 65 years or older; risk of death is highest among those 85 years or older”. Elderly individuals in nursing homes and long-term care facilities are at the highest risk.

The communal nature of these facilities can act as a breeding ground for the virus. Data collected by the New York Times reveals that approximately 11% of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the United States have occurred in long-term care facilities. However, these facilities account for over one-third of case fatalities. It is critical that this demographic receives an even greater level of care and caution. This is true for the essential individuals who serve them, as well.

Corvus is proud to service organizations and facilities that care for elderly populations. These essential businesses provide care, medical supplies, and aid to senior citizens. Corvus of Orlando Franchisees, Julio Santos and Castillo Padilla, provide cleaning and disinfecting services to Seniors First and Kissimmee Outpatient. Seniors First facilitates local Meals on Wheels and similar programs in the area. Kissimmee Outpatient provides urgent care in the community. They have also been providing local COVID-19 testing. “The team [at Seniors First] has done so much good for the Orlando senior community over the years, and it has been really inspiring to see them step up in these difficult times. It’s an honor to be their partner – now more than ever,” Santos states.

Tarita Ivy, a Corvus of Indianapolis Franchisee, recently began performing services at HomeMed Pharmacy. HomeMed delivers essential pharmaceutical products and prescriptions to high-risk patients. “I was excited to take on the HomeMed account at the beginning of May. They are keeping vulnerable patients safe, and I’m glad to have the opportunity to contribute to their efforts”.

Corvus Janitorial Franchisees care about the communities that they serve. This has never been more clear. As this crisis evolves, we will continue to serve our communities in any way we can. Increased awareness, cleaning, and disinfecting can make all the difference. We’ll get through this together and we’ll come out stronger on the other side. If you’re ready to serve your community and take control of your career, this is the job for you, too. Contact us today to learn about business ownership with Corvus Janitorial Systems.