Let’s face it…
The public has a very poor impression of carpet cleaners.
Even a quick search on Google will bring up dozens of stories about dodgy cleaners ripping clients off.
These con artists have given our industry a huge black eye. So much so that there are now entire websites dedicated to reporting carpet cleaning scams.
That means one of your biggest challenges as a cleaner is to prove to clients that you are a legitimate business.
How to instil trust in clients
Many carpet cleaners moan about how scams artists are hurting the industry. They go on the defensive.
But that kind of a response is a waste of time and energy. It’s reactive. It does nothing to grow your business.
To be a successful cleaner, you need to take a proactive approach.
Instead of wishing that things were different, you must accept the reality as it is. And then do everything in your power to prove that you are credible, legitimate and trustworthy.
In today’s task, you will discover some steps you can take to achieve that goal…
Today Task: Make A Great Impression
The following steps cannot be completed in one day. Instead, they are ongoing tasks that you must follow consistently to make your carpet cleaning service look as professional as possible.
- Always keep your truck clean. I’ve seen carpet cleaners go to homes in dirty trucks. This creates a terrible first impression. Your truck is your main advertisement, and a significant source of new clients. Treat it as such.
- Look professional. I’ve heard stories of cleaners turning up at jobs with filthy jeans, unshaven faces, and ripped T-Shirts. Clients do not want someone like that in their home. You must look neat, clean and professional when you arrive. Wear a uniform, even if it’s just a pair of black shorts and a T-Shirt with your company logo.
- Be careful on social media. Never post anything offensive on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. Assume that everything you post online (including in personal accounts that can be viewed publicly) could potentially be seen by clients. If you want to appeal to a mass audience, avoid posts about divisive topics like politics and religion.
- Answer the phone politely. Phone calls are often the first point of contact with a client. When you take a call on your business phone, be professional and friendly. Answer with your name so people immediately know who they’re talking with. If you sound like you’re too busy to speak on the phone, prospective clients will assume you’re too busy to do a good job on their carpet cleaning. Give every caller the time and attention they deserve from the very first encounter.