What are the best sources of information for starting a commercial office cleaning business?

Question

What I am looking for here are mentors or franchise opportunities (preferred), or, if all else fails, books, government resources, and / or websites (in that order.) My proposed business would be in the San Francisco Bay Area (California, United States).

Of course, advice as to why this is (or is not) a good business to be in would appreciated as well.

Answer 1

The best routes to take are to research the process of starting a business as well as the industry you're interested in.

I recommend checking out the SBA, Entrepreneur, The Start Up Journal & Nolo. All 4 are great informational resources for the new/small business owner. I posted links for you in the source box.

Associations may be a good avenue to explore as well. These organizations will address many of the thoughts, questions and concerns you'll inevitably have as well as many you haven't anticipated yet. See the source box for some relevant links.

Research, research, research – this cannot be stressed enough. Read as much as you can about the industry. Here are some book titles that are relevant:

* Commercial and Residential Cleaning Services: A Resource Guide to Developing and Maintaining Your Own Janitorial or Home Cleaning Business by Walter Fenix
* Start Your Own Cleaning Service (Entrepreneur Magazine's Start Ups) by Jacquelyn Lynn
* Cleaning Up for a Living: Everything You Need to Know to Become a Successful Building Service Contractor by Don A. Aslett, Mark L. Browning

There are plenty of free informational resources out there. Check the source box for links to articles.

Hope that helps! I wish you much success & happiness in all your ventures!