Start a Cleaning Business

Valued at almost $293 billion, the commercial cleaning industry is growing by the day—and Corvus Janitorial Systems offers people from all social classes the chance to become part of a unified, cooperative, and collaborative community. In efforts to become more inclusive, we’re looking for franchisees of all ages, genders, religions, races, and abilities. We believe that, as our workforce becomes more diverse, we will use our franchisees’ unique experiences and perspectives to drive growth, increase competition, and solve industry-wide problems.

Although the push for diversity and inclusion isn’t a new concept, America’s industrial sector still has work to do. Minorities will have more than $3 trillion in purchasing power by 2030; just 20 years after that, people of color will make up almost half of the country’s population. While these changes are promising, they’re not reflected in the makeup of most companies’ executive boards. For instance, women are promoted 20% less often than men, and less than 20% of the workforce is disabled.

As our country changes, it’s becoming increasingly important for companies to recognize the societal and competitive advantages of diversity, and to ensure that their workforces reflect current demographics. Here, we’ll explain the differences between diversity, equity, and inclusion, why these qualities are so important in janitorial franchising, and we will also offer a few tips for the advancement of diversity.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Similar, but Different

To understand the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the franchising world, employers must first learn the significance of each variable and how it drives change.

• Diversity is the concept of a group of people from different backgrounds, all coming together to achieve a common goal. It also refers to differences in identity, preferences, experiences, and thought patterns. A person’s identity encompasses numerous aspects, including their age, race, gender identity, religion, body size, and social status. Workplace diversity is defined as the hiring of people from all backgrounds and identities. While a single person cannot be diverse, a group of people certainly can be.
• Equity is access, advancement, opportunity, and fair treatment for all. It’s a practice that requires companies, even cleaning franchises, to find and remove obstacles that have, in the past, prevented certain groups from taking part in the workforce. Equity largely determines who can access career opportunities and how workers are valued. The implementation of workplace equity plans should be well thought out and purposeful, and franchise owners must thoroughly evaluate their procedures and guidelines to ensure that their workplaces are fair.
• Inclusion is more than a byproduct of diversity; it’s also the result of decisive actions that make employees feel respected and valued. Inclusive workplaces are safe spaces where team members can speak freely and work according to their own needs, responsibilities, and schedules. Along with these qualities, inclusion also encompasses assorted styles of work, leadership, and communication. To create an inclusive workplace, a cleaning franchise owner must meet workers’ unique requirements and allow their voices to be heard.

Corvus is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusivity in its practices and philosophies. Contact us today to learn more about our views or to discuss franchising opportunities in your area.

Fostering Creativity and Innovation

The commercial cleaning industry is run by people of various backgrounds, experience, and skill levels, which means that diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives will build a spirit of innovation and creativity. When franchise owners focus on these qualities and create a diverse and welcoming work environment, employees are more likely to share their thoughts with others. DEI offers several benefits, but its ability to help businesses stand out is one of the most important.

Offering a Selection of Skills

Cleaning franchise owners who hire workers from diverse backgrounds are more likely to gain access to the skill sets needed for business growth and expansion. By building a diverse, equitable, and inclusive work environment, franchisors and franchisees bring in new perspectives that make brainstorming and problem-solving easier.

Recruiting Top Talent

Inclusion and diversity are important criteria for many job seekers, even in today’s employment market. When potential team members see that a cleaning business hires people of all races, nationalities, ability levels, and backgrounds, they’re more likely to feel welcome. This level of acceptance allows franchises to recruit the area’s top talent, as hiring decisions are based on qualities other than physical appearance.

Increasing Employee Morale

Working in a diverse and inclusive environment increases workers’ morale and job satisfaction, which will reflect in the quality of results produced. When employees feel truly at home, they tend to thrive in their roles—and the business will flourish as well.

Boosting Productivity

As diversity and inclusion come to the forefront, so does a commercial cleaning franchise’s collaborative spirit and, in turn, its productivity. A diverse team brings a range of skills and experience to the table, facilitating team-wide learning and collaboration. As productivity increases, so does the free flow of ideas—putting DEI-focused cleaning franchises ahead of competitors who are still doing things the old-fashioned way.

Understanding Customers’ Needs

Increasing diversity and inclusivity doesn’t just bring internal benefits; it also allows franchisees to market their janitorial services to the right audience. When employees come from backgrounds like those of the target demographic, promotional opportunities and growth come naturally.

Raising Revenue

With the successful management of an inclusive and diverse workforce, revenue increases are a virtual certainty. As employees become happier and more fulfilled in their roles, they’ll introduce productivity-boosting concepts that differentiate your business from its competitors. DEI isn’t just about the money, though; it’s also about your cleaning company’s culture.

Driving Financial Performance

The economic benefits of an ethnically, gender, and demographically diverse team cannot be understated. Numerous studies show that diverse companies typically achieve financial returns exceeding national industry averages.

The advantages don’t stop there—a team’s makeup should reflect that of the community and the company’s customer base. Whether you’re a franchise owner or a franchisor, the team you’ve built will make a significant difference in the business’ performance.

Advancing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Workplace: Tips for Commercial Cleaning Franchises

Now that we’ve gone over the importance of diversity and inclusion in business, we’ll offer a few franchise-friendly tips.

1. Assess the franchise’s current state. Even the best diversity initiatives are useless without a preliminary diversity audit. The process is simple; it starts when owners learn about community perceptions, supplier relationships, and consumer demographics. When owners know who they’re marketing to and hiring, they’ll learn where to focus their DEI efforts.
2. Find financial support. When franchisees come from diverse backgrounds, some may be economically disadvantaged. Corvus Janitorial works strongly to offer the financial aid minority franchisees need to get started.
3. Focus on minority suppliers. Diversity in ownership is just one way for franchisees to become more inclusive. Another way is to focus on minority and women-owned supply businesses. Finding a diverse selection of vendors strengthens the community in which a franchise runs and increases competition, improving the quality of goods and services.
4. Create innovative recruitment strategies. Using conventional talent recruitment methods provides run-of-the-mill results. To increase the breadth and depth of your franchise’s talent pool, consider going to job fairs in disadvantaged communities, taking part in workforce development programs, and recruiting at community colleges.
5. Rewrite job descriptions. To attract a wider selection of potential hires, it’s best to write inclusive job descriptions. Use a text editing utility to cut antiquated, biased verbiage, and re-evaluate skill requirements so roles appeal to more applicants. By focusing on qualities needed to do the job, rather than a person’s work history, you’ll find more candidates.
6. Approach interviews differently. The job interview process is sometimes biased against candidates from certain genders, races, and cultures. Your cleaning franchise’s interview process must fairly assess applicants’ qualifications without relying on outdated stereotypes.
7. Be more supportive. Diverse hiring practices are a great first step, and increasing support and engagement is a natural progression. Providing career development and resource assistance further supports new employees and allows them to grow, thrive, and broaden their career prospects.
8. Take an active role in the community. Participating in professional groups and community organizations helps cleaning franchise owners respect, understand, and tap into the diversity that’s already within their companies. Becoming part of the community creates lasting connections that help franchise owners attract new clients and find a diverse choice of potential hires.

Creating a more diverse cleaning franchise is a long-term effort. Results will be slow to come, and the process will naturally create challenges. With time, hard work, and commitment at the franchisor and franchisee levels, everyone will enjoy the public relations, business, and profitability benefits that come with an inclusive workplace.

Create a More Diverse, Equitable, and Inclusive Workplace

Recent events have brought matters of equity, diversity, and inclusion to the forefront, and nowhere is it more important than in today’s work environment. At Corvus Janitorial Systems, we’re committed to inclusivity in everything we do, and we’d love to share that focus and commitment with you. Receive more information via our online form or call today to discuss franchising with one of our friendly client service representatives.

The key to expanding a janitorial business is getting new contracts, which requires advertising. While it is essential to use traditional marketing strategies, social media is one of the most influential and critical places to promote a commercial cleaning company. Social media also provides one of the most impressive returns on investment. Platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram draw millions of followers, and it’s possible to harness that exposure to grow your cleaning business. The key is identifying your target audience, using platforms correctly, and posting regularly.

Why Social Media Marketing Is Essential

Social media is a powerful communication tool and marketing strategy that allows businesses to reach customers where they are. Companies can also characterize their brands and expand their customer base.

With that in mind, using social media in the janitorial field is critical to increasing contracts. When used correctly, social media can improve the efficacy of other marketing efforts. Commercial cleaning companies are better able to drive traffic, build natural links, promote brand recognition, and create goodwill.

Target Your Ideal Customers

Targeting the right people is the foundation of successful cleaning business marketing. To do that, you first need to research and learn about your ideal customers. Where do they hang out, what are their problems, what questions do they have, and what kind of things do they wish they had in their life?

When you know these things about your ideal customers, creating content that will engage them is more manageable. It will also help you understand where to promote the company on social media.

Choose Social Media Channels

A simple way to begin is to work with the channels you like best. There are a lot of social media platforms, and each has its strengths. Because time and effort are involved in maintaining posts, it’s best to choose one or two platforms and focus on them. 

Using LinkedIn

Per Forbes, LinkedIn is the ideal place to reach the business world. Business professionals commonly connect to the platform to network and investigate leads.

Because LinkedIn is full of professionals and offers excellent search features, it is easy for you to connect with your target audience. Once you have identified your ideal customer, you can use the search feature to locate potential commercial cleaning clients. For example, you might look for facilities managers in your area.

You can use site filters to narrow down characteristics, such as individuals who manage businesses of specific sizes. Once you connect with those you have selected, they will begin to see your posts.

Using Facebook Ads

When you use Facebook ads, targeting the right people with content that solves their problems and helps them reach their goals is crucial.

You can reach your target market using a combination of Facebook pixels and lookalike audiences. A lookalike audience is one way that ads reach new people who are likely to be interested in your business since they share similar characteristics to existing customers. 

Be sure to add your Facebook pixel to your website. A Facebook pixel is a piece of code you can place on your website. It collects data so you can track conversions from Facebook ads and optimize the ads. A pixel also makes it easier to build targeted audiences for future ads and remarket to those who have taken some type of action on your website.

Using Instagram

Because Instagram is a video and photo-sharing platform, its audience responds well to visual content. As a result, one of the best ways to market your commercial cleaning business on Instagram is to post before-and-after photos. 

People enjoy viewing transformative images. When you show photos that highlight your cleaning skills, you demonstrate the quality of your services. Also, use hashtags common to the cleaning niche, such as #cleaningservice, #cleaningtips, and #cleaningservices.

Using YouTube

When posting to YouTube, it’s essential to include the same value-based content used in blogging. It’s a powerful platform ideal for showcasing commercial cleaning excellence. 

For instance, a time-lapse video can provide a clear example of past results. Like before-and-after images, videos showcase the value of your work. Cleaning Business Today experts recommend using high-quality photos of previous jobs or happy customers. Also, add exciting captions that catch the audience’s attention.

YouTube videos can get thousands of views that generate tremendous business. If you reach a point where the channel can be monetized, it will also provide additional income.

Using Twitter

Twitter can be used to drive traffic to your company site, but it needs to be done correctly. The key is to share value-based content, just as you would on other platforms.

Building up a following on Twitter can be a slow process, but it’s a platform that allows every follower to see everything you post. If you consistently lead with value first, your cleaning business will eventually get noticed, and a targeted audience will begin to develop.

Create a Social Media Personality

Because there’s so much competition on social media, it’s vital to stand out. The key is to create unique content that readily identifies your company.

For example, use eye-catching, colorful graphics. List helpful cleaning hints or add stunning local photos. Give your posts a personality, and don’t forget local hashtags because they make it more likely you will get in front of the audience you want. 

Post on Sites Regularly

It’s necessary to make regular posts on social media sites, but you don’t want to add so much content it begins to feel like spam. A middle ground is the best approach. 

Posting once a day is safe for most sites, and you can add several Twitter posts daily. The goal is to constantly interact with followers and keep content fresh. Since you are dealing with social platforms, it’s OK to add non-business content, such as images of company events, light-hearted comments on holidays, or simply wishes for a good weekend.

Link to Local Events

Adding links to community events is a great way to gain followers and attract local attention. When possible, draw attention to other businesses, too. For example, congratulating another company on success or a milestone builds goodwill and business relationships.

Please note that current franchisees should check with their local offices to ensure they are in compliance with guidelines when using the Corvus logo on social media.

According to a recent write-up in the New York Post, more than 60 percent of Americans admit to having aspirations of owning their own business. Many people have amazing ideas for businesses, but they’re a bit hesitant to jump headfirst into such a venture. Some like the idea of working for themselves but aren’t quite sure of where to start. 

At the same time, countless people who have been considering starting their own business are afraid now isn’t the best time to branch out to that extent. After all, the last few years have been uncertain. Many have said that uncertainty is the only certainty any of us can count on in this world, but the past couple of years have taken that sentiment well beyond previous notions. That’s particularly true for many people in the business world.

With that in mind, a number of those who would like to start their own company just aren’t sure if this is a good time to do so. If they were to take the plunge right now, which niche of the market would be the best one to choose? Though the options are virtually limitless in that regard, people often overlook the possibility of offering janitorial services as a fruitful business opportunity.

Is Now a Good Time to Start a Business?

First off, let’s take a look at the timing aspect of starting a franchise janitorial business. Despite all the hesitation, uncertainty, and concerns for the future, numerous experts are saying this is actually a suitable time to start a business for many aspiring entrepreneurs out there. Consider some of the key reasons this is a good time to make that leap.

Plentiful Business Funding Opportunities

One of the main hurdles people face when starting a business is acquiring the funding they need to make it happen. Most don’t have a sizable sum of money in their savings account or assets they can liquidate to bridge that gap. In the past, getting a loan to start a business wasn’t exactly easy. In many cases, applicants found that lenders required them to have money to be able to borrow money. 

That created a vicious cycle that dashed the dreams of far too many hopeful businesspeople, but it’s not necessarily the case these days. Considering the number of business closings due to the pandemic and the endless benefits businesses bring to their communities and the nation’s economy as a whole, loans, grants, and other funding solutions are becoming more readily available.

In a few years, when America rebounds from the pandemic and the economy and business realm stabilize, lenders may begin to tighten their purse strings again

The Market Is Growing

Consumers are spending more money right now as they regain confidence in their income and buying power. That means the market for what you have to offer is growing. Some might wonder how such a general statement could be true. To which market are we referring? Which products and services are people looking for?

Honestly, almost all markets seem to be surging from baked goods and vegan foods to electronics and children’s toys. Just about any niche you may have in mind still has room for more people to fill it at the moment, and that trend is likely to continue for quite some time. If you get in on the ground floor now, you’ll be set up for success down the road. In a few years, you could be the established, trusted brand consumers turn to as they veer away from incoming startups.

No Need for an Office

During the Covid pandemic, many businesses did away with their offices in favor of remote or hybrid-work. In the process, these businesses saved on the expenses that come with having a physical office. A Corvus Janitorial Systems franchise is always home-based, so there’s no need for physical office space. As a result, our franchisees avoid having to worry about the costs and burdens from keeping and maintaining a physical office. The entire business can be run from the comfort of your home, allowing you further flexibility.

You’re Ready to Make that Move

It’s also important to consider your own feelings about starting a business right now. Do you feel you’re ready? Do you have the funding to get a business up and running? Do you already have a solid plan in place? If you feel you’re ready now, move forward with confidence.  There will always be a degree of nervousness starting your own business, but successful business owners don’t let that hold them back. 

Is a Janitorial Business a Favorable Opportunity?

With all that being said, let’s delve into whether janitorial services is a favorable sector for starting a business. People tend to overlook this industry. Their minds automatically drift to seemingly more glamorous niches rather than considering the benefits of offering professional cleaning services. As it turns out, janitorial service could be a highly lucrative business opportunity for people who’d like to own their own businesses. 

Less Competition than Other Sectors

Right now, countless people have their hearts set on profiting from the ever-growing e-commerce craze. Food service is another industry that’s experiencing a surge. Numerous entrepreneurs are also looking to the technology sector. Considering the number of new businesses cropping up in those fields, the competition is growing increasingly fierce.

If you’re part of the janitorial service sector, you won’t be up against nearly as much competition as you would in many other industries. As mentioned, this isn’t the first thought that crosses entrepreneurs’ minds when they’re deciding which niche to enter. Depending on where you set up shop, you may be the only business of your kind in the area.

That’ll make you all the more important to businesses in your service area. It’ll also make marketing and advertising much simpler and more effective. The market will be wide open, and you’ll be there to establish your place in the industry. Since so many people fail to consider the professional cleaning industry, there won’t be as much of a risk of others trying to move in on your territory once you reach the top, either. 

Businesses Need Janitorial Services

There’s no denying that the demand for janitorial services is growing. Based on a recent report, this sector is surging by about six percent annually. No doubt, the pandemic scared quite a few companies into seeking professional cleaning crews to get rid of that viral threat. Of course, it’s only one of the latest in a list of contaminants that has been growing for years. Keep in mind, local businesses need to keep up a good appearance to impress their customers, too.

Any number of potential customers could be waiting for a reliable janitorial service to come into their area. Offices are common clients, but they’re not the only spaces that need professional cleaning and sanitizing services. Schools, restaurants, manufacturing facilities, government buildings, retail stores, clinics, and an endless list of other companies are looking for janitorial services.

The market will be yours to dominate. All those entrepreneurs who chose other niches will be turning to you to keep their businesses clean, safe, and presentable. You won’t have to worry about consumers losing interest in your company, either. People will always need cleaning and sanitizing services.

Is Starting a Franchise Janitorial Services Business a Good Idea?

Now, we’ll cover the prospect of starting a franchise janitorial services business. People often balk at the concept of buying into a franchise business. They’re afraid the franchisor will place too many restrictions on them and prevent them from spreading their wings. In truth, a franchise is the perfect solution for many entrepreneurs.

Lower Start-Up Costs

Buying a franchise is often less costly than starting a completely new business. That means you won’t have to spend as much time saving up for the venture. If you’ll be relying on a business loan, you may be more likely to receive funding for a smaller amount than a larger one. It’s also fair to mention that the start-up costs here at Corvus Janitorial Systems are among the lowest in the janitorial services field. We offer a range of financing packages for franchisees as well.

Banking on an Established Brand

For many businesses, creating a brand and building trust among consumers are immensely difficult. It takes a lot to impress consumers these days, and many are unwilling to do business with unknown brands that don’t have a solid track record. Purchasing a franchise allows you to bank on an already-established brand with a ready-made following. You’ll already have brand awareness and recognition as well as customer loyalty on your side. 

Extensive Support 

Starting a business is a major undertaking. You have to have all the right tools to get started before opening your doors. Furthermore, you have to build a business plan, create an effective method for training employees, and cover numerous other bases to stay afloat.

When you buy a franchise, all those aspects have already been taken care of. You also receive expert support from a brand that wants you to flourish. After all, you’re part of the team, and its overall reputation depends on your success.

Better Risk-to-Reward Ratio

Franchises have a higher average success rate than standalone businesses. On the other hand, franchises come with lower risks than independent businesses. That’s another factor that could improve your chances of acquiring a business loan or a lower interest rate. It’ll also greatly boost your chance of thriving in the business world. 

Is This a Good Time to Start a Franchise Janitorial Business?

To recap, this is a great time to start a business considering all the opportunities available to entrepreneurs. Though the possibilities are endless, starting a janitorial business is certainly a favorable choice. Professional janitorial services is an underserved niche with growing demand, so this type of business will certainly be a welcome addition to your community. 

Buying a franchise offers numerous advantages over starting a business from scratch. Taking this route is generally less risky than the alternative. With all that being the case, now is absolutely a great time to start a franchise janitorial business. At Corvus, our affordable and growth-focused franchise opportunities may be the perfect fit to make your dreams of owning a business come true. Contact us today to learn more about Corvus janitorial franchise opportunities.