One of the biggest challenges for any cleaning business is figuring out how to get cleaning clients consistently. Without a steady stream of customers, even the most skilled cleaners can struggle to maintain a profitable business. Whether you’re just starting or looking to expand, attracting new clients is essential for long-term success.
The good news is that with the right strategies, you can establish a reliable workflow, foster trust with customers, and grow your business sustainably. Below are seven proven methods to help you do just that.
- Utilise Word-of-Mouth and Referrals
Trust is key in the cleaning industry. Customers want to feel assured that someone they hire for cleaning services will do a superior job in their home or workplace, which makes referrals a potent form of promotion. Ask satisfied customers if they know anyone interested and would benefit from your services. Offer discounts or additional free services as an incentive for referrals.
Word-of-mouth referrals can be particularly powerful, as they create instant credibility with new clients. Referrals become increasingly invaluable over time as new clients are generated.
- Establish an Online Presence
Many consumers search online for the services they require; you shouldn’t miss out if you fail to establish a strong online presence. Start by creating a professional yet user-friendly website that showcases all your services, pricing details, testimonials, before-and-after photos, certifications, and any other relevant elements that build trust between clients and service providers.
Google Business Profile, formerly Google My Business, remains essential. By optimising and setting up your listing correctly, you can ensure that your cleaning business is easily found in local searches and maps – an efficient way to attract nearby cleaning clients, as people often look for services in their area.
- Promote Your Work on Social Media
Facebook, Instagram and TikTok are all excellent sites through which you can market your cleaning business. Sharing transformational videos, time-lapse videos or cleaning tips that catch the eyes of the viewers on these sites will not only mark your expertise but also make potential clients envision the work that can be accomplished in their homes or workplaces.
Engaging online with your community is essential. Join local groups and respond to any inquiries or comments posted. Utilise social media channels like LinkedIn to connect with individuals who are not actively seeking employment but may become interested once they view your portfolio of work.
- Join Local Businesses to Network
Ads and postings simply aren’t enough to get you networking – local businesses, property managers, real estate agents and other professionals all require cleaning services, so offer an introductory discount, introduce yourself, introduce the clientele you serve and distribute business cards if appropriate.
Real estate agents may recommend your services to clients preparing their homes for sale, while gyms and cafes often require cleaning services as well. Such partnerships offer reliable recurring revenue sources that you should explore further.
- How cleaning insurance can support your marketing
Marketing is essential for growing your cleaning business, but it can also expose you to certain risks. The right cleaners insurance not only protects you while on the job but also helps safeguard your reputation and finances as you promote your services. The right insurance coverage demonstrates to customers that you take your work seriously and are prepared for any challenge—whether online or offline.
- Offer Promotions and Packages
A lot can go a long way in building new clients who would otherwise hesitate to commit. Offer discounts, seasonal promotions, or service packages in bundles as incentives to encourage first-time buyers to try out your services.
Consider creating packages such as the “Spring Refresh,” which includes deep cleaning services, as well as a “Move In/Move Out Special” explicitly tailored for renters or landlords. Such specials will allow clients to experience your quality firsthand.
Once they realise your value, many will use you frequently.
- Gather and Showcase Reviews
Customers trust other people’s experiences, making reviews an integral component of customer acquisition and conversion. Invite customers to post positive reviews on Google, Yelp, or Facebook platforms to boost your business.
Display these reviews prominently on your website and marketing materials. By demonstrating professionalism in resolving customers’ issues quickly and efficiently, even one or two complaints will not significantly damage your business reputation. Transparency breeds trust, which differentiates you from your competitors who ignore customers’ complaints.
- Stay Consistent and Reliable
Reliability is at the core of any successful cleaning business. Customers expect you to arrive promptly, deliver as promised, and respect their property – something reliability ensures will keep customers coming back and spreading word-of-mouth referrals for you.
Your reputation for consistency will grow over time and become one of your most powerful marketing tools. Aiming for consistency, combined with top-quality service, is your ultimate strategy for success.
Additional Tips for Expansion
While the strategies outlined above will help attract clients, other habits could set your business apart and ensure its continued growth.
Brand yourself to project a professional image. Uniforms and vehicle signage featuring your company logo create a professional appearance.
Keep yourself organised by using tools. Scheduling apps and invoicing software are excellent tools for running an efficient operation and preventing missed appointments.
Enhance the appeal of your services with flexible packages and tailored cleaning plans, and offer personalised plans that make them even more desirable.
Consistent implementation of these techniques will yield fruitful results. Marketing and client acquisition both require ongoing focus.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning businesses must strike a balance between delivering excellent services and possessing successful client acquisition strategies. Although your excellent cleaning skills will drive your business, gaining customers through word of mouth or possessing an outstanding online presence still matters for responsible growth. Each of these strategies works in tandem to help expand a cleaning business successfully.
The cleaning industry can be highly competitive, but you can thrive by being persistent, creative, and reliable. These traits will enable you to expand your customer base and grow your business.