The conversation is about the Domestic Cleaning Industry Awards, which are held annually to recognize and celebrate the achievements of domestic cleaning businesses. The awards aim to give recognition to the industry and promote excellence in various categories. The conversation covers the different award categories, the judging process, and the importance of self-nomination. It also mentions the upcoming in-person awards ceremony and the opportunity for networking and celebration.

In this conversation, Louise and Diane discuss the best vacuum cleaners for different cleaning needs. They explore the pros and cons of various types of vacuums, including canisters, uprights, corded, cordless, bagged, and bagless. They also touch on the importance of using the right attachments and the value of investing in higher-quality vacuums for professional cleaning services. The conversation highlights the need for a balance between performance, durability, and cost when choosing a vacuum cleaner.

In this conversation, Louise and Diane discuss the best vacuum cleaners for different cleaning needs. They explore the pros and cons of various types of vacuums, including canisters, uprights, corded, cordless, bagged, and bagless. They also touch on the importance of using the right attachments and the value of investing in higher-quality vacuums for professional cleaning services. The conversation highlights the need for a balance between performance, durability, and cost when choosing a vacuum cleaner.

***there is some slight sound issues in this podcast***

In this episode, Louise and Diane discuss the differences between employing a team and using self-employed contractors in a cleaning business. They debunk myths and provide insights into the decision-making process. They emphasise the importance of considering the business model and the need for consistency in service. They also address topics such as training, uniform, client requirements, and the risk of contractors stealing clients. The conversation concludes with a discussion on sick pay and the financial considerations of employing a team.

In this episode, Louise and Diane discuss the differences between employing a team and using self-employed contractors in a cleaning business. They debunk myths and provide insights into the decision-making process. They emphasize the importance of considering the business model and the need for consistency in service. They also address topics such as training, uniform, client requirements, and the risk of contractors stealing clients. The conversation concludes with a discussion on sick pay and the financial considerations of employing a team.

Andrew Knight shares his journey of starting a cleaning business after facing personal challenges. He quit his job as a project manager and within six weeks, he had secured seven customers and hired staff. Now, a year later, his business has grown to include 10 staff members, subcontractors, and an office. Andrew discusses the importance of understanding customer needs and finding the right marketing channels, such as Facebook and neighborhood groups. He also emphasizes the need for clear communication with customers and the implementation of quality assurance programs. Andrew shares his experiences with recruitment challenges and the importance of pricing and customer selection. He plans to focus on expanding his commercial contracts and developing a reliable team to eventually have more flexibility in his business.

In this episode, Louise and Diane discuss the implications of being recorded on camera while cleaning. They explore the laws surrounding recording in private properties, the use of cameras in public areas, and the potential invasion of privacy for cleaners. They also discuss the challenges of using recorded footage as evidence in disciplinary actions and the idea of using body cams for protection. The conversation raises questions about data protection, waste carrier licenses, and the benefits of networking with other cleaning professionals.

Summary In this episode, Louise and Diane discuss exit strategies for cleaning business owners. They explore why business owners may want to exit, such as physical strain or a desire to pursue other passions. They discuss the option of selling the business and the importance of systemizing the business to make it attractive to potential buyers. They also touch on other exit strategies, including investing in property, starting a training or coaching business, and franchising. They emphasize the need for careful planning and consideration when choosing an exit strategy.

Keywords exit strategies, selling a business, systemising a business, investing in property, training business, coaching business, franchising

Summer brings a whole heap of challenges to cleaning businesses, including staff and customer holidays, childcare issues, and working in the heat. Planning ahead and communicating with both staff and customers is key to managing these challenges. It's important for business owners to take time off as well, even if it's a staycation. The demand for cleaning services remains high during the summer, with end of tenancies and holiday lets being particularly busy. It's also important to relax uniform policies and ensure staff stay hydrated and comfortable while working in the heat.

Enter the Domestic Cleaning industry awards here - https://dcbn.org.uk/awards

The conversation discusses the controversy surrounding the pricing of cleaning services and the need for fair and sustainable pricing. It highlights the discrepancy between the low prices advertised by some cleaning platforms and the actual costs of running a cleaning business. The hosts emphasize the importance of charging a fair price that covers expenses and allows for a profitable business. They also discuss the role of social media influencers in shaping public perception and the need for influencers to have a better understanding of the cleaning industry. The conversation concludes with a call to change the narrative around cleaning and educate the public about the true costs and challenges of the profession.