We see those discouraging unemployment numbers on a weekly basis now. According to a recent news segment, those numbers may not even accurately reflect the true picture. People who have run out of unemployment benefits, or have simply given up on finding a job are not included. If you've been laid off, it's a smart idea to start thinking outside the box. Have you ever thought of starting your own business? Yes, but I don't have any funding! Impossible! Not so. Here's a plan that can help you out of a seemingly impossible situation. Let's take a look at how to get started.
Starting a cleaning service is an almost recession proof venture, with very little capital required, as well as minimal overhead. So long as you're physically able and don't mind hard work, starting your own cleaning service can provide an answer to the unemployment blues.
If you're now collecting unemployment benefits, you're in an even better position. You're required to look for work each week, so use a portion of your time making contacts and soliciting local small businesses, in addition to seeking regular employment in your usual line of work. Looking for any type of work is part of a legitimate job search, so you needn't worry about being disqualified for your unemployment benefits.
A cleaning service can ultimately prove to be a profitable business, but not many people consider this small niche in the world of business ventures. This can be just the edge you need! As for experience, you've probably got all the skills you need, just from keeping your own home clean. So what do you need in the way of equipment to get started in the cleaning service business? The usual cleaning products, a vacuum, a rug cleaner - which you can rent as needed, until you're able to invest in your own and that's about it. You can conduct your business out of your home. You can hardly find a business with lower overhead!
You'll first want to print up business cards, easily accomplished on your home computer. You can use a template, provided with most word processing software. Go ahead and get fancy with a memorable logo design, if you're the artistic type. Print some fliers that you can place on local bulletin boards, advertising your new cleaning service business.
Open a business bank account. You'll also need to get a business license from your county. The fees vary by locality.
One investment you'll need to make is in bonding and liability insurance. Shop around for a good price. This won't cost much, but pays you back in credibility with prospective customers' trust that you are a legitimate business.
In order to gain some credibility with prospective clients, you'll want to build some local references. While business references carry more clout, individuals can provide a boost in the mix of references you're prepared to offer, once you start approaching long term clients. You can get listings of area businesses from your local Chamber of Commerce.
Good prospects for your cleaning service clients include small shops and service businesses such as independent realty agencies, travel agents and insurance agents. While they may already engage a cleaning service, they may not be satisfied with the service they're receiving. Offer an introductory price for a one month try out. The idea is to undercut your competition and still make a nominal profit. You perform an outstanding job and chances are good that you'll have a customer. You're on your way, with an additional business reference.
Be sure to keep detailed and accurate records of your expenses, mileage, required home office space and any capital assets you may acquire along the way. All of your business related cleaning service expenses are deductible on next year's tax return.
So there you have the basics of starting a cleaning service that just may pay the bills!
0 Response to "Can't find a job? Starting a cleaning service can be"
Post a Comment