HI Shawn,
I thought I would stick my twopenith in aswell
We started last March (2004) had a good start with the first area that we did in Shropshire. We slowly built it up from there. We had problems with our vehicle being stolen which meant we didnt work for about 6 weeks during August & September. Our saving grace was the fact that we wrote to all our customers and explained the situation. Thankfully they all appreciated being kept informed and we didn't loose one customer through it. Always try and keep your customers informed. We also tell them each month the approximate date we will be there the next month.
We are now just heading into our second year, we are getting there, but its still a struggle. There are three of us, so we need to go at it to keep up the income.
We use a series of different leaflets. One for canvassing, one to say we have called and when will be calling back for payment and a third one that says "sorry we missed you" and requesting they send a cheque. At least it saves keep going back to collect. I will upload them to the download page shortly.
Try to diversify aswell. We do window cleaning, clean guttering, fascia boards, conservatory roofs and jet wash patios/paths etc. It all helps at the end of the day.
It is all worth it in the end, I have always wanted to work for myself, and at long last I am. Although it has been a tough year, I wouldnt change it for the world, so my advice is just stick to it and keep it up. Good Luck.
Scott
C C S
