[stubremner]

Hey my first post!

Have been reading this forum and found it very useful and informative!

Just have a few questions.

Basically im 21 and have been working in a call centre for 6 months and feel now the summer is upon us to change vocation!

I have always wanted to be my own boss and thought that this is a good time when responsibilities are low(do have to pay rent and bills and eat tho!). I looked over the internet and came across window cleaning never thought about it b4(even tho my parents windows have been cleaned by a window cleaner since i can remember!) and saw its low overheads for a good wage if u put the work in.

My main worry is that would my age count against me being that u have to door canvass and be face to face wiv potential clients dont want to give impression of cowboy not quality etc... has ne1 else been in same situation and found it is/isnt problem (probably just being over cautious).

Also i know u need to get ladder etc...
but do you need insurance, training, certificates, or join association.

Any help links etc.. would be gratefully appreciated!

Cheers
Stu

[WavieDavie]

Hi Stu,

You've come to the right place, old son. Read the top two messages on this board first and then try to get through the rest!

You can use the search button on the top bar for specifics. I've sent you a copy of some stuff someone else asked for, so you can work through that too - I hope you're on broadband!

My main worry is that would my age count against me being that u have to door canvass and be face to face wiv potential clients dont want to give impression of cowboy not quality etc...
I don't think age would come in to it. Present yourself in a business-like manner, maybe wear a top with a logo on for all to see.

but do you need insurance, training, certificates, or join association.
Insurance - YES  
Training - very helpful, you might be able to convince someone on these boards to take you under their wing for a short time.
Certificates - that might happen somewhere down the line.
Join association - step right this way sir . . . http://www.nfmwgc.com/

Oh, and by the way - being on Cleanitup means never having to say sorry The vast majority of window cleaners start out as a one man business.

All the best - Go for it!

[steadyeddy]

Hi Stu

I started my own window cleaning business back in February,all the info and advice is here,you will need some time to read through all the posts but well worth it.

Buy some basic kit, like I did, 14'' applicator, (Unger Monsoon),a squeegie with 10'' and 14'' blade,couple of scrim cloths,get a sample of window cleaning solution, I use GG4 , there is plenty of information on all types of cleaning fluids on this forum, all my original kit I bought from Wintecs, speak to Mark very helpfull.

There is also a lot of info on insurance here.Ladders I got from Lansford Access in Bristol , excellent ladders.

Practice and practice on neighbours and friends houses.Prepare a flyer, post them through doors and go back a couple of nights later and knock there door and introduce yourself, people like to see who you are, I have found this has worked for me.
Remember you are learning all the time and be professional.

Any other details you need just send me a PM

Best of luck

Steve

[George-Reid]

Steve.
In my business (wheelie bin cleaning) I employ door canvassers during the summer months. At the moment I have three lads all nineteen they are knocking approx six hours each per day and each averageing 6 to 8 customers per day. I know I can knock my self and get slightly better results  but thats experience not age.
None of my three have ever cleaned a bin but they know more about the service than any of the customers and this is the key.
Good luck
George

[George-Reid]

Sorry Steve meant Stu.