In today’s competitive business world, even the smallest details can make a significant difference. Entrepreneurs are always seeking to boost efficiency and stay ahead. One crucial factor that has a major impact on the daily tasks in most business environments is commercial cleaning.
However, when you’re in need of office cleaning in St. Louis or you run a more specific type of business, it’s important to find a dedicated and trustworthy partner to keep your premises looking their best. With so many companies offering quality cleaning services, it can be challenging to choose one that aligns with your needs and matches up to your expectations. In today’s article, we give you a list of essential factors to consider when picking your trusted ally.
How to choose the right commercial cleaner?
You need a team that not only delivers exceptional cleaning results but also aligns perfectly with your company’s values and operational priorities, so take your time to research and compare your potential candidates and focus on the following criteria to make sure they’re the right fit for you:
Training and level of experience
Ample experience is important, but so is a company’s commitment to quality through continual employee training. Effective training allows cleaners to get regular feedback and updates on the latest safety protocols and industry best practices. It not only encourages accountability but also helps ensure your facility is always taken care of to the highest standard. Feel free to ask your potential partner the following questions:
- How long has your business been operating?
- How often do your employees receive training?
- Who provides the training?
Flexibility and availability
Your cleaners should prioritize and adapt to your business’s unique requirements. For example, if you wouldn’t like your visitors or employees to be distracted during office hours, it’s essential that the company has flexible scheduling to accommodate similar needs. You can find that out by asking questions such as:
- Are you willing to work around my company’s hours?
- Do you have any blackout periods in your schedule?
- Will there be a dedicated contact person or team available to handle emergency requests or unexpected issues that occur outside of regular business hours?
Plans and services they offer
Different cleaning companies offer different services, from basic plans to specialized cleanings. Every business is also unique in its operations and requirements. Your chosen company must be able to handle both basic upkeep and complex maintenance your facility may require. A reliable partner understands there’s no one-size-fits-all solution and offers tailored services that adapt to your type of business. You can ask the following:
- Do you offer customizable plans?
- What specialized services do you offer, such as hard floor treatment, special event cleaning, power washing, or carpet and upholstery cleaning?
Communication and accountability
Partnering with a company that’s committed to building positive, trusting, and lasting relationships with their customers is also important. If they provide courteous and professional service backed up with open and honest communication, it means they’re also ready to accommodate your requests and address any questions or concerns you may have in a timely manner. Here’s what you can ask when interviewing them:
- Will there be a dedicated person as my primary contact?
- Can I reach out to that person after business hours if there’s a need?
- How often will there be check-ins to ensure your routines meet my expectations?
- Is there a customer communication system?
- Is there a process for quality assurance?
Industry and safety standards
The importance of aligning with industry and safety standards can’t be stressed enough. Making sure the company is fully bonded, licensed, and insured will give you peace of mind and a guarantee that they care about the safety and satisfaction of both their clients and employees. Organizations that set forth these standards include:
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)
- Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
While your office maintenance is solely your responsibility and the decision is your to make, staying informed on the best practices in the industry can enable you to make a more informed and cost-effective decision.
