Issue 133

May 14, 2007

 Cleaning for a Reason 

After owning and operating a residential cleaning service for more than 25 years, it's refreshing to find fulfilment in an unexpected place-giving away free cleanings. Last year, during one of my Bootcamp seminars on "growing your residential cleaning service". I mentioned my long-held practice of giving away free cleaning to women undergoing treatment for cancer. I was inspired by the overwhelming response I received from these business owners who aksed me to help them implement a giving-policy in their company. Little did I know then, that my version of Cleaning for a Reason was about to become a national foundation attracting more than 100 companies in less than a year.

A handful of ARCSI Members (Association of Residential Cleaning Services International) inspired me to launch something that is bigger than myself and more important than the business I own. The joy and sense of purpose that comes from giving can be quite contagious! I cannot even begin to tell you how excited I am about the potential Cleaning for a Reason (C4R) holds for every cleaning service, no matter what their size.

 Rodney Dangerfield Ain't the Only One! 

The residential cleaning industry does not receive the same level of respect that other successful businesses enjoy. Some people even look down their noses at cleaning services not realizing the revenue they can generate. Disrespect and contempt is not uncommon amongst those who do not understand our industry. The consumer in general, doesn't really relate to "those cleaning people".

Cleaning for a Reason has the potential to help bridge the gap between stereotype and reality. Many successful businesses are popular as much for the charities they support as the product they sell. Finally there's an opportunity for us to support a cause that is perfect for our industry. This charity benefits cleaning business owners as well as thier clients, friends and families.

Sadly, cancer touches every woman in America - who doesn't know someone affected by cancer? Cleaning for a Reason is directly related to our industry--cleaning homes for women with cancer! Women helping women one home at a time has become our motto. I see a real potential for doors opening to us that were closed to in the past - establishing your cleaning service as the company with a heart and soul for cleaning.

 Who else is cleaning homes for free? 

 Probably not your competitors! 

Offering free services without the umbrella of a non-profit charity, is still a good and noble thing to do and many of you are doing this already at some level. And, of course, you are not likely to promote your own generosity in hopes of receiving free publicity. along with normal modesty, there's always the concern that abuses or excessive demand could interrupt your business and detract from the spirit of giving.

Self promotion is counter productive as it is quick to be viewed with suspicion by the public. Providing your free services through a legitimate foundation is an excellent way for the community to see what's different about your company. Companies need to operate in plain view when it comes to charitable giving. This helps to set the example for others to follow and will also raise the standard of what's expected of any service. Becoming a local leader in this cause, rather than a follower, will benefit you professionally as well as personally. I am encouraged by the stories we've already heard from some of our Chapter Members.

Many are reaping the benefits of the insatiable obsession reporters have for stories that involve cancer, women, and anything new and unique. We fit that description to a "T" and the free publicity our maid service Chapters have received is proving to be another unexpected benefit. Some are leveraging this exposure to grow and develop their service and create a stronger bond with their existing clients and public at large. Our logo has universal recognition and resonates deeply with the public.

We are a Texas non-profit corporation and our 501c3 status is pending with the IRS. Supporting the Cleaning For A Reason Foundation could prove to be the wisest business decision you could make. Additionally, C4R Chapters have reported their involvement is having a profound effect on their staff. Never before have cleaning employees been able to associate their work with such pride.

Of course our strength is in our numbers. The more C4R Chapters all around the country the more branded this concept will be with our consumers. Some day I hope every prospective client searches through the sea of ads for a cleaning service displaying the pink Cleaning For A Reason ribbon. As a business coach, I can tell you no amount of money can produce a more positive image for your company. Of course, the best part of all, you get the joy and fulfilment that giving brings and the distinction of your company truly making a difference in the lives of women one home at a time.

 Want to learn more? 

Visit Debbie's website at:          Cleaning for a Reason

 Absolute, final, last-minute message from Debbie Sardone 

Tell a friend about my newsletter!

See you next time, until then, Keep It Clean!