The Cleaning Indy Podcast

In this episode of The Cleaning Indy Podcast, Tom delves into the intriguing topic of how we perceive our competition in the commercial cleaning industry. The short answer? They are viewed as colleagues and fellow professionals. Tom elaborates on this concept and highlights the distinct types of commercial cleaning companies: nationwide cleaning companies (large franchises), regional cleaning companies (smaller franchises and medium-sized privately owned cleaning businesses), and local cleaning companies in Indianapolis (mostly smaller enterprises).

In Episode 6, Sarah and Tom take a deep dive into the pros and cons of each type of commercial cleaning company, emphasizing that success ultimately hinges on how well these companies are managed at every level. Tom introduces the notion of "the irreducible minimum of core business philosophies and practices," emphasizing the critical importance of truth and foundational systems that drive consistent, quality-driven service.

Tom outlines key aspects that form the bedrock of a reliable cleaning service company, such as rigorous hiring and onboarding processes, trained management staff, regular quality inspections, proper uniforms and equipment, and the presence of a dedicated account manager. He underscores the significance of operating on solid foundations and continually striving for improvement.

Drawing from past episodes, Tom recalls that a significant challenge faced by facility managers is the lack of training provided by some cleaning companies, reinforcing the importance of selecting a company grounded in truth, transparency, and a robust system of core practices. He concludes by reaffirming their focus on self-improvement and adherence to their core values, allowing them to lead in their market by breaking their own records and continually advancing.

Join us for this insightful episode as we explore the nuances of the cleaning industry and how a strong foundation and commitment to improvement can set cleaning companies apart. Tune in to "The Cleaning Indy Podcast" to learn more about maintaining excellence in commercial building cleaning services.

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In this episode, we're delving into How Did the Pandemic Affect The Cleaning IndustryHow Did the Pandemic Affect The Cleaning Industry COVID-19 significantly reshaped how we perceive cleanliness, hygiene, and the demand for disinfection services. We invite you to contribute to the discussion by visiting CleaningIndy.com, tapping into the "send Tom a voicemail" feature, and sharing how the pandemic has influenced your experiences.

We begin by sharing our personal narratives of where we were when the pandemic broke out, and how it altered our understanding of germs, cleanliness, and hygiene practices. The closures of day care centers, churches, and schools propelled us to adapt and introduce Electrostatic Disinfecting Services, obtaining certification through GBAC and strictly adhering to CDC guidelines, implementing a thorough two-step disinfection process.

The pandemic posed significant disruptions to the supply chain, particularly with hospitals swiftly securing substantial quantities of personal protective equipment (PPE) and disinfectants. In response, we took initiative and created our own sanitizing wipes to meet FDA requirements for a specific client. Additionally, the crisis shifted the perception of janitors and cleaning technicians, shedding light on their indispensable role in maintaining public health.

As businesses grappled with evolving safety protocols, they began to recognize the immense value a dependable commercial cleaning company could provide. The commitment to upholding CDC recommendations, acquiring elusive disinfectants, and executing comprehensive disinfection procedures underscored the essential contributions of cleaning professionals during these trying times.

In closing, we reflect on the enduring transformations that COVID-19 brought to our commercial cleaning company and the broader industry. We invite you to share your own experiences: How did COVID-19 impact your commercial cleaning company, and what lasting changes have you observed in your operations?

Join the dialogue as we explore the enduring effects of the pandemic on the commercial cleaning landscape.

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Get to Know Eric Q: An Immigrant Family's Journey To America, & Character Formed By Adversity

In this episode, we delve into the life of Eric Q, a remarkable individual whose family immigrated from China to the United States. Eric shares his family's experiences and the challenges they encountered, as well as the opportunities they seized upon once they arrived in the land of opportunity.

Recording on the weekend before July 4th, we explore what life was like for Eric's parents as they navigated their new home. We learn about the obstacles they faced, the triumphs they celebrated, and the sense of belonging they built for their family.

Growing up in the 90s, Eric's childhood seemed relatively normal, but it wasn't without its hardships. With his parents owning a successful Chinese restaurant for over 30 years, Eric provides an inside look at what it was like growing up in a family-run business. He recounts the joys of working together and the challenges they overcame as a team.

The conversation takes a more serious turn when discussing the experiences of Eric and his family during the COVID-19 pandemic. With a rising negative undertone and racist attitudes against Asians worldwide, Eric shares the impact this had on their lives and how they stood resilient in the face of adversity.

Having graduated with a B.A. in the travel industry from Indiana University, Eric reflects on his initial career aspirations and how they may have evolved over the years. The episode sheds light on his journey to finding fulfillment and purpose in his professional life.

As fellow Sci-Fi enthusiasts, the host and Eric indulge in a discussion about the upcoming summer releases in the sci-fi world. Eric shares his excitement for new adventures and intergalactic escapades that await in the realm of science fiction.

Finally, we explore Eric's aspiration to start a Sci-Fi podcast. Join us for this inspiring and thought-provoking episode as we get to know Eric Q, his immigrant heritage, love for sci-fi, and the determination and resilience that define his journey in life.

In this episode, Tom & Sarah delve into a comprehensive comparison of franchise cleaning companies, national cleaning companies, and privately owned cleaning companies.

They provide a thorough analysis of the pros and cons associated with each type, offering valuable insights for both business owners seeking cleaning services and consumers in need of cleaning solutions.

Starting with franchise cleaning companies, Tom & Sarah highlight several advantages. These companies offer cookie-cutter business plans and comprehensive administrative support, which can be a boon for entrepreneurs lacking organizational skills on the office side. Franchise cleaning companies also employ dedicated marketing staff who excel at finding new accounts. However, there are notable downsides to consider. Local franchisees often face challenges in achieving long-term success, as the franchisor retains significant control over their operations and can revoke contracts if strict adherence to their rules is not maintained. Ongoing fees and royalties further impact profitability and long-term financial viability. Additionally, high initial costs, including franchise fees and equipment purchases, can be daunting for those with limited resources. Franchisees also experience limited flexibility and autonomy, being bound by operational guidelines, standards, and brand image requirements set by the franchisor. This restricts their ability to make independent decisions and adapt to local market conditions, including pricing and marketing strategies.

Moving on to national cleaning companies, Tom & Sarah explore the benefits and drawbacks associated with this type. National cleaning companies excel at securing accounts with nationally recognized brands and retail chains, providing a robust account pipeline for their subcontractors. They also ensure timely payment for subcontracted services. However, there are significant downsides to consider as well. National cleaning companies often claim a steep percentage of the revenue generated from accounts, ranging from 30% to a substantial 70%. This revenue sharing arrangement reduces profitability for local cleaning companies. Moreover, miscommunication issues frequently arise in the delivery of work orders due to the intermediary nature of these companies. There is also a risk of contracts being abruptly terminated without notice, leaving local cleaning companies without work unexpectedly.

Lastly, Tom & Sarah delve into privately owned cleaning companies, thoroughly examining the pros and cons. Privately owned cleaning companies offer a range of benefits that cater to customer preferences. Being local entities, they can provide prompt on-site services, often on the same day if required. These companies have a vested interest in delivering high-quality services to maintain their reputation and secure repeat business, making them highly motivated and dedicated. Additionally, they possess extensive knowledge of the local market, allowing them to offer competitive pricing. Tom & Sarah emphasize the importance of supporting these small, often generational family businesses, as doing so strengthens the local community. However, there are potential downsides as well. Quality can vary significantly among privately owned cleaning companies, as they differ in size and available resources. It is crucial for consumers to conduct thorough research by examining social media presence, reviews, and website authority to ensure reliability. Additionally, some companies may be too small to handle large-scale cleaning projects or lack robust training systems to maintain consistent service quality.

Tom & Sarah conclude by emphasizing the need for careful consideration of specific needs, budget constraints, and personal preferences when selecting a cleaning company. Each type presents its own advantages and disadvantages, and understanding these nuances will empower listeners to make informed decisions. By weighing the pros and cons outlined in this episode, individuals can find the cleaning solution that best aligns with their requirements.

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In this episode, we dive into the topic of industry standards for commercial cleaning. We address the common experiences we have all had with cleaning expectations, whether it's dealing with messy roommates, guests, or children. The question arises: Are there any standardizations when it comes to commercial cleaning?The answer is a resounding "yes," and we provide two valuable resources for understanding these standards:

1. The ISSA (International Sanitary Supply Association): We explore the ISSA's Clean Standard, which serves as the gold standard of cleaning. It offers comprehensive training programs and certifications for cleaning service providers, emphasizing the connection between cleaning, health, and overall well-being. By adhering to the Clean Standard, facilities can demonstrate the value of clean environments, leading to increased employee productivity and improved bottom lines.
2. The IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification): We discuss the IICRC's role in developing common industry language and terminology, as well as its certification programs for professionals in the cleaning, inspection, and restoration industries. Their certifications cover a range of specialized areas, such as microbial remediation, structural drying, and floor care.

Additionally, we mention several other entities and organizations that promote cleaning standards, including governmental bodies like the World Health Organization (WHO), Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). We also highlight the role of professional associations like APIC (Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology) and AHA (American Hospital Association) in providing certifications for operating room cleaning.To ensure cleaning has been performed effectively, we discuss two verification methods:

1. ATP Testing: Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP) testing measures actively growing microorganisms and provides a rapid assessment of cleanliness. Lower ATP readings indicate better cleanliness.
2. Fluorescent Markers: These markers, available as gels, powders, or lotions, are used to mark high-touch objects before cleaning. By using a UV light, one can inspect whether a surface has been adequately cleaned.

With the wealth of resources and tools available, including these standards and verification methods, you can confidently ensure that your cleaning crew meets your expectations. Cleaning is no longer subjective but objectively measured.To stay updated and learn more about commercial cleaning, visit our website at CLEANINGINDY.COM. Don't forget to leave a review wherever you listen to this podcast, whether it's on Google, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube.

Take care, and we look forward to sharing more valuable insights in our next episode!

In this podcast episode - "6 Ways To Lower Your Cleaning Budget Today," we discuss valuable information that can help you save thousands of dollars per month. We provide six practical ways to reduce cleaning expenses: with a BONUS at the end!

1. Consolidate Services: Instead of hiring multiple cleaning companies for different tasks, find a single company that can offer a wide range of services. This can lead to better pricing, simplified communication, and streamlined billing.
2. Adjust the Cleaning Frequency: Evaluate your cleaning needs and adjust the frequency of cleaning services accordingly. For example, reducing cleaning from five days per week to four can result in significant monthly savings.
3. Update Your Scope of Work: Regularly inspect your facility to identify areas that require less frequent cleaning or where you can reduce the scope of services. Communicate with your cleaning company about unused areas or lower foot traffic zones to potentially negotiate a cost reduction.
4. Negotiate a Better Price: Negotiate with your cleaning company for better pricing or terms, especially if you've been a loyal customer. Additionally, consider shopping around and comparing prices from different cleaning contractors to find a more cost-effective provider.
5. Use Technology: Optimize your cleaning operations with technology. Utilize occupancy sensors to adjust cleaning schedules based on building traffic and employ supply monitoring systems to reduce costs. Technology can help improve efficiency and save money.
6. Use Battery Operated Cleaning Equipment: Request your cleaning contractor to use efficient cleaning equipment and methods that require less time and labor. Battery backpack vacuums, for instance, can significantly reduce labor costs compared to corded alternatives.

Additionally, we suggest encouraging employee involvement in maintaining cleanliness to decrease the amount of cleaning required by contractors. However, it is important to strike a balance and avoid burdening employees with excessive cleaning tasks.

As a bonus tip, we recommend communicating your cleaning budget to your service provider. By letting them know your budget constraints, you may open up discussions that could lead to cost-saving solutions. We also emphasize the significance of setting clear expectations with your cleaning contractor and providing regular feedback to help them improve their service quality and potentially reduce costs. This can also prevent the need to search for a new cleaning company.

Overall, by implementing these strategies, listeners can effectively lower their cleaning budget while maintaining cleanliness and quality standards in their facilities.

Enjoy the Show!
CLEANINGINDY.COM

In this episode, the host Tom Moore discussed transitioning to a new cleaning company.

He shared the results of a LinkedIn poll of 738 facility managers that showed the top reasons for changing cleaning companies were poorly trained staff, inconsistent attendance, missing items, and little communication.

The episode also offered an insider tip about the importance of focusing on one service rather than taking on everything. The guests on the show also suggested that communication, staff empowerment, and showing appreciation were key to maintaining a good relationship with cleaning companies.







The Cleaning INDY Podcast, sponsored by American Facility Care, is a show for facilities directors, property managers, and anyone responsible for maintaining buildings.

Visit:

CleaningIndy.com

for more info.

Are you a facility director, property manager, or point person in charge of your building? If so, tune into this episode of the Cleaning Indy Podcast brought to you by American Facility Care to learn all about the pros and cons of in-house cleaners versus outsourcing to a professional cleaning company. Put your building in the best hands possible - listen now!

Welcome to our New Podcast!

In this Episode, Tom introduces himself as the co-founder of American Facility Care, located in Central Indiana.

He shares with the audience a crazy but true story of working with two different cleaning companies, and what he experieced through completely different training at each company. The story may turn your stomach, so be sure to skip that part if you're a little squimish.

Episode Theme: No Two Cleaning Companies Are The Same!

Visit us at CLEANINGINDY.COM for more info!

Enjoy this Easy Listenening Experience!