3 T's to Employee Success

In the janitor service industry there is no question that people are the most valuable asset to achieving success. Cleaning is very labor intensive whether it involves sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, or dusting and that doesn't appear to be changing anytime soon. Sure there is automatic equipment and restroom machines available for some situations, but people are still needed to operate this equipment. Since people are so important to running a successful cleaning business it only makes sense that they should be treated accordingly. The three most important things that an employee needs to assure success are time, tools and training.

Time is the single largest cost of any cleaning job, however it is also the variable that is often cut in order to keep prices down and to remain competitive with other companies. When this happens employees are forced to do more work in less time which often leads to subpar service and customer complaints. CMS has conducted cleaning time studies in various settings including office buildings, schools, industrial plants and auto dealers. Each setting is very different thus requiring employees to work at different speeds. In each setting an employee can only work so fast. If they don't have enough time to do their work properly it's going to be evident sooner than later. Furthermore, an employee that is rushed and pressured to work too fast will be stressed and eventually quit. Consistent turnover often leads to poor service and unhappy customers.

Tools are the equipment and supplies that employees need to work effectively. They are an extension of the employee that helps them to be successful. A mechanic that must rely on a tool box full of broken wrenches won't be able to properly fix the vehicle they are working on. Not only must the tools be in good working order, but employees must be provided with the correct tools for the job. This rings true in the janitor service business. An employee that needs to empty 200 trash bags in a dumpster 150 yards from the  building needs a special tilt cart. If this equipment is not provided 2 things will happen. First, the employee will take much longer to empty the trash. This can be a problem if the time wasn't budgeted. Second, they may get frustrated and end up quitting. If the proper equipment isn't provided turnover may result leading to unhappy customers and lost business.

Training of employees is critical for a successful cleaning program. Employees must become familiar with proper techniques and instructed on the use of equipment. Failure to train accordingly can result in lowered production rates, damaged equipment and poor service. It can even result in employee accidents and worker's compensation claims all of which are bad for employees and business in general. It is also important for managers and employees to stay abreast of new trends and equipment in the industry. A business that fails to look ahead will get left behind by companies that embrace the latest methods and technology. A well trained employee is happier, more productive and safer than an untrained employee. Training should be a priority for every successful business, but is often overlooked.

At CMS we understand the importance of providing our employees with the time, tools and training to be successful. If they're successful so are we as a company.

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