I don't really know how I would go about getting new customers.
I rely on word of mouth referrals and repeat business for over 90% of my work. And keeping in touch with my friends in business, via my data base.
My only form of advertising, is a business card size ad; in the YP.
I refuse to pay the exhorbitant prices asked by YP, just so that I can have a larger ad, and get all the price shoppers that go with it.
Getting back to your problem though, I presume you are an excellent carpet cleaner, and have completed and passed, several courses.
If that is the case, I would be approaching real estate offices and offering to do a clean in one of their offices for free.
This is only one room, not the entire office.
Preferably the front counter area, this will be the dirtiest.
Advise them that a higher price comes with quality work, which will ensure their properties are let quicker.
ie; which would you rather move into, a clean carpeted unit, or a not so good one??
Also approach furniture retailers for fabric protection, as well as spot cleaning of 'shop soiled' items.
If you are prepared to work after hours, or week-ends, why not concentrate on commercial work & upholstery?
This is one segment sadly neglected.
Your work van should be clean, neat and tidy at all times, with good advertising on it.
Neat, clean uniforms are essential, along with your own personal appearance.
Always treat your friends that you will be doing work for, with the utmost courtesy and professionalism.
Forget the, "g'day luv, 'ow's it goin'"
You want to impress these people and retain them for future cleans.
Get some corner guards, so your hoses don't scuff the walls.
I don't know how many times I have heard, 'No-one else has ever used those, aren't they a good idea'??
Hope this helps in some way for you, good luck & hang in there.
Cheers,
Shorty.
