Should I use a marketing company to get started?

[shawn]

Hi everyone, I am a newbie trying to start my own commercial cleaning business. I have seen marketing companies that offer to write your proposals and set up your website and offer to submit bids for you, all for an initial fee plus 10% for every job they get you. Since I don't know anything about the above yet, would this be a good way to start or a waste of time? Also, is there a website or organization that provides good leads for a price. Thanks

[Kevin]

You will need to learn to do it yourself. You will also need to learn how to cold call.

[Ms. Janitor CEO]

I agree with Kevin. You have to learn this business for yourself. Having a company doing your proposals and footwork, will probably end up with you paying more money out then you ever gain.

Now, there are software programs that can assist you in bidding accounts. There is also a simple formula for bidding small accounts (under 2000 Square Feet). The formula is:

The Hourly Rate (the rate you are paying the employee per hour) X 2=Amount

Amount X 1.2 (For Benefits, Worker's Comp, Insurance, Etc)=Hourly Rate to Charge Client

I am a newbie also (have been in business for about 7 months) but I have used this formula, along with other janitorial software and I have been "in the right range" on all of my bids, so far.

Good luck!!