by Theresa | Oct 30, 2019 | Cleaning Industry, Commercial Cleaning
In the realm of the cleaning industry, we recognize the vital role professional cleaners play in upholding the well-being of diverse environments such as businesses, schools, medical facilities, places of worship, and more.
Though often, a janitor's world is unseen, and their work is only noticed if there's a fault in its consistency.
Our dedicated efforts span the globe, enhancing spaces with immaculate floors, pristine carpets, gleaming elevators, functional drinking fountains, hygienic restrooms, and reduced litter.
Moreover, our work fosters improved health and safety by enhancing indoor air quality, curbing germs and pathogens, and mitigating hazards like slip-and-fall incidents.
Undoubtedly, the fabric of modern society would be notably frayed without our contributions.
The Underestimated Importance of Janitorial Services
While the cleaning industry contributes substantially to the lives of millions daily, a longstanding predicament persists.
If you're reading this piece, you're likely attuned to the fact that our industry's true value often remains underestimated.
Granted, the importance of a facility's cleaning regimen is widely acknowledged, and the absence of our services would undoubtedly lead to disorder.
Nevertheless, the broader public perception tends to pigeonhole professional cleaners as mere providers of emptying trash cans and maintaining clean toilets, often overlooking our pivotal role in safeguarding human health.
Due to this limited perception of the Janitorial and Sanitation (JanSan) sector's significance, cleaning programs are frequently perceived as necessary expenses that demand management, rather than as crucial investments that profoundly influence a business's bottom line.
This fixation on cost often detracts from the necessary emphasis on quality.
Janitorial wages remain suppressed, training can be inadequate, and equipment replacement is sometimes deferred.
Regrettably, contractors may feel compelled to compromise on excellence and service in a bid to remain competitive on pricing.
With hopes for a future where the cleaning industry attains the esteemed recognition it rightly deserves, in the meantime, we must vociferously proclaim our value.
Our role involves acting as ambassadors for our field. Our mandate, if we choose to accept it, is to vocalize the invaluable contributions we extend to businesses and institutions.
In fact, our impact is so profound that we play an instrumental role in enhancing businesses' financial performance through significant avenues such as diminishing absenteeism, heightening productivity, and augmenting customer satisfaction.
Top 10 Benefits of Professional Cleaners
Outlined below are several key points that elucidate the benefits that the cleaning industry imparts to the general public and customers:
- Reducing Absenteeism: Employee illnesses lead to decreased productivity. A major contributor to absenteeism is unsanitary facilities and poor indoor air quality. By mitigating harmful contaminants in workplaces, the cleaning industry concurrently curbs absenteeism. The outcome? Healthier, more present employees translate to enhanced business performance.
- Heightening Productivity: On the flip side of absenteeism, presenteeism occurs when unwell employees struggle to be productive while at work. The cleaning industry actively addresses conditions that breed illness and presenteeism. Hence, we have ample reason to proudly highlight our role in nurturing higher productivity levels and bolstering the bottom line.
- Elevating Customer Satisfaction: Customers possess numerous options for conducting business, and the cleanliness of a facility ranks prominently in their decision-making process. Subpar or hurried cleaning can lead to significant revenue losses and increased legal vulnerabilities due to slip-and-fall incidents.
- Cost Savings in the Long Run: Regular maintenance by cleaning professionals prevents the need for expensive repairs or replacements of carpets, furniture, and fixtures.
- Compliance with Health and Safety Standards: Professional cleaning services ensure adherence to industry regulations and standards, reducing the risk of fines and liabilities.
- Improved Reputation: A consistently clean and well-maintained environment reflects positively on a business’s brand image, showing professionalism and attention to detail.
- Letting You Focus on Core Business Activities: Outsourcing cleaning tasks allows businesses to concentrate on their core operations rather than managing cleaning staff and schedules.
- Scalability for Business Growth: Professional cleaning services can scale with a business, ensuring that as the company expands to larger spaces or additional locations, cleaning needs are consistently met.
- Boosted Employee Satisfaction: Employees appreciate a clean and well-maintained workplace, contributing to higher job satisfaction and retention rates.
- Eco-Friendly Cleaning Options: Many professional cleaning companies offer green cleaning solutions, helping businesses reduce their environmental impact while maintaining a healthy workplace.
Are You Happy with Your Cleaners?
If you love your cleaners and all that they do for you and your place of work, don't forget to celebrate them on National Janitor Appreciation Day, on October 2nd, every year.
Metropolitan Building Maintenance has been offering commercial cleaning services in the Lower Mainland for over 40 years, with an average customer retention of 14 years. We're Canadian-owned and operated, and if you’re interested in our services, contact us today for a free quote!
Gratitude is extended to Adon Rigg of Insightful Selling for the insights provided in this article. Adon, with a quarter-century of professional sales experience in the cleaning industry, is the author of "Insightful Selling" and the host of the podcast "Cleaning Up In Sales," available on iTunes and YouTube.
by Theresa | Oct 8, 2019 | Cleaning Industry, Commercial Cleaning
We firmly believe that the ten reasons outlined below will compellingly articulate our journey as a steadfast Cleaning Service Provider, offering sustainable, reliable, and unwavering services across the Lower Mainland for over 40 years!
Ten Pillars of Our Commitment
- Comprehensive Cleaning Services: Our expertise spans Carpets, Floors, Windows, and more as a dedicated Cleaning Service Provider.
- Microfiber Mastery: We harness the power of Microfiber cloths to efficiently capture dirt, demonstrating our commitment as a proficient Provider.
- Best Business Practices: Upholding the highest industry standards, we exemplify a trustworthy Cleaning Service Provider.
- Fair Wages Commitment: Our commitment to equitable compensation reinforces our identity as a responsible Provider.
- Personalized Customer Care: Our Face-to-Face Customer Service ensures personalized attention, setting us apart as a customer-focused Provider.
- Established Since 1980: A pioneer in the industry since 1980, our legacy as a trusted Provider has roots dating back to 1974.
- Strong Customer Retention: With an impressive 14-year average, our customer retention exemplifies our dedication and consistency.
- Seasoned Expertise: Our experienced staff, with tenures ranging from 5 to 25 years, embodies the proficiency of a seasoned company with a deep roster full of knowledge and experience.
- Green Practices: Demonstrating our eco-conscious approach, over 90% of our products are environmentally friendly, emphasizing our role as a sustainable Provider.
- Feedback-driven Improvement: Our "How Are We Doing?" surveys, conducted thrice yearly, underscore our commitment to continuous enhancement as a conscientious Cleaning Service Provider.
Opting for Quality: Your Path to a Cleaner, Healthier Workspace
Opting for Metropolitan as your designated Cleaning Service Provider marks the commencement of a lasting and positive partnership that will change your mind about the professional cleaning industry.
We are resolute in upholding indoor air quality—a pivotal concern for your most valued resource: your employees.
Through consistent dusting and vacuuming, we instate a frequent maintenance schedule, tailored to our expertise.
This approach has been proven to foster productivity in the workplace and combat absenteeism.
Often underestimated, entrances hold a pivotal role in maintaining cleanliness.
Leveraging high-quality walk-off matting, we champion the importance of routine maintenance, highlighting savings, reduced absenteeism, and heightened workplace safety.
Embracing a New Standard: Janitorial Services that Listen
We cordially invite you to welcome a distinctive cleaning experience—one founded on attentive listening—provided by a Janitorial company that genuinely values your needs.
We hold your premises' cleanliness and the well-being of your employees in the highest regard as your dedicated Green Cleaning Service Provider.
Metropolitan Building Maintenance has been offering commercial cleaning services in the lower mainland for over 40 years, with an average customer retention of 14 years. We're Canadian-owned and operated, and if you’re interested in our services, contact us today for a free quote!
by Theresa | Oct 18, 2016 | Cleaning Industry, Commercial Cleaning
The British Columbia Contract Cleaners Association (BCCCA) joined forces with Karcher Canada to champion and acknowledge the invaluable contributions made by cleaners to our daily lives.
“Thank Your Cleaner Day” was initiated by Karcher in 2015 with the aim of recognizing the often overlooked efforts of cleaners, who predominantly work during the night.
Job satisfaction is crucial, and a lack of appreciation often contributes to high turnover rates in the cleaning industry.
To rectify this, October 16th, 2016, was chosen as the date for “Thank Your Cleaner Day.”
This date was selected strategically to coincide with the busiest period in offices from late September to November, providing maximum exposure for the initiative.
The ripple effect of appreciation can greatly benefit the industry as a whole.
Making Thank Your Cleaner Day a Global Success
Karcher’s global reach, spanning 60 countries, positions them to raise the status of cleaners and increase their perceived value.
Notably, unions are also endorsing this initiative, highlighting the universal desire for recognition.
The key to success lies in generating prime-time coverage and public interest stories. Increased visibility will elevate the profile of building service workers, benefitting the industry economically.
How to Spread the Word
Metropolitan also actively participated in this initiative by sending letters to its customers, spreading the word about this special day and encouraging everyone to show their appreciation for the hardworking cleaners.
Whether you’re a cleaning company looking to inform your customers or a business that wants to participate, here are examples of an email or letter to share and create your own campaign
Template 1 – From a Cleaning Company to a Client
To Our Esteemed Customers,
We are delighted to share exciting news from the professional building services industry and announce the upcoming “Thank Your Cleaner Day” on [check this website to have the correct date].
[Your Company Name] joins hands with Karcher – [Your Country] to support and promote this significant event.
We recognize and applaud the tireless efforts of tens of thousands of cleaners who work diligently day and night, often during weekends and holidays, to ensure our workplaces and living spaces remain clean and hygienic.
Many of these individuals work behind the scenes and often go unnoticed.
It is time to change that, and “Thank Your Cleaner Day” is the perfect occasion.
This presents a wonderful opportunity for you and your team to connect with your cleaners and let them know that their efforts are truly appreciated. A simple hello, thank you, smile, or handshake can brighten someone’s day immensely.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to you for your support and encourage you to participate in this initiative.
Together, we can elevate the status of cleaners and contribute to a positive change in our industry.
Thank you for choosing [Your Company Name].
Warm regards,
[Your Company Signature]
Template 2 – A Business Notifying their Staff
To Our Valued Staff,
We are delighted to share the exciting news that we will be joining thousands of companies across the world to celebrate “Thank Your Cleaner Day” on [check this website to have the correct date].
[Your Company Name] joins hands with Karcher – [Your Country] to support and promote this significant event.
We recognize and applaud the tireless efforts of tens of thousands of cleaners who work diligently day and night, often during weekends and holidays, to ensure our workplaces and living spaces remain clean and hygienic.
Many of these individuals work behind the scenes and often go unnoticed.
It is time to change that, and “Thank Your Cleaner Day” is the perfect occasion.
This presents a wonderful opportunity for our team to connect with our cleaners and let them know that their efforts are truly appreciated. A simple hello, thank you, smile, or handshake can brighten someone’s day immensely.
Together, we can elevate the status of professional cleaners and contribute to a positive change in their industry.
Thank you for your incredible work making our business shine.
Warm regards,
[Your Company Signature]
Improving the World One Relationship at a Time
Metropolitan Building Maintenance has been raising awareness about the cleaning industry and important developments that benefit all.
We have been offering commercial cleaning services in the lower mainland for over 40 years, with an average customer retention of 14 years. We’re Canadian-owned and operated, and if you’re interested in our services, contact us today for a free quote!
by Theresa | Nov 4, 2015 | Cleaning Industry, Commercial Cleaning
In today's competitive business landscape, the cleanliness and maintenance of your facilities play a crucial role in shaping your company's image. The good news is professional cleaning services can help.
It goes beyond aesthetics; it's about creating a healthy and inviting environment for your employees and visitors.
In this blog, we will delve into the importance of cleaning services in managing washrooms, addressing sustainability concerns, and maintaining a professional image.
Let's explore how a well-maintained washroom can make a significant impact on your business.
The Significance of Washroom Management
Your Business Card
Your washroom is akin to a business card for your company. It's often the first impression visitors have of your establishment.
Ask yourself, when people walk into your washroom, does it reflect the professionalism and care you invest in your business?
A clean and well-maintained washroom can leave a positive impression and set the tone for the rest of the experience.
Impact on Customer Relationships
Believe it or not, the state of your washroom can make or break an account.
Clients and partners may judge your overall commitment to quality and cleanliness based on the condition of your washroom facilities.
If your washrooms are neglected, they might wonder, "If the washroom is bad, what else is bad?"
Doing More with Less
In today's economic climate, efficiency is paramount.
Companies are expected to do more with fewer resources.
This includes cleaning and maintaining larger areas with reduced staff.
Effective cleaning services can educate you on how to strike the right balance between cleanliness and cost-effectiveness.
Who Really Cares About the Washroom?
1. Millennials and Gen Z
Millennials and Gen Z value the workplace experience.
They seek more than just a paycheck; they want a positive and enjoyable work environment.
A clean and attractive washroom contributes to this experience.
2. Women in the Workforce
As more women enter the workforce, their expectations for workplace amenities, including washrooms, have risen.
Offering quality amenities can help attract and retain talent.
3. Contractors and Visitors
With more contractors renting office space, their experiences in your facilities matter.
The same goes (perhaps even more so) for clients and customers who enter your business.
They expect high-quality amenities, and if they're disappointed, they won't hesitate to voice their concerns.
How Cleaning Services Can Help
As buildings become more crowded, the demand on washrooms increases.
Neglecting washroom maintenance can lead to more service calls, disrupting operations and affecting your bottom line.
Maintaining washrooms is a direct reflection of your commitment to hygiene. Unsanitary conditions can tarnish your reputation.
Investing in quality products, like modern paper towel dispensers, can significantly reduce germs and improve user experience.
Cleaning Services Providing Exceptional Service
As a service provider, it's not just about selling paper towels or cleaning supplies; it's about understanding your customers' needs.
Communicate the importance of hand hygiene and provide solutions that enhance the washroom experience.
Consider investing in modern, attractive wall towel dispensers to encourage use and promote hygiene.
Choose Cleaning Services that Prioritize Sustainability
Sustainability is not just a buzzword; it's a global imperative.
As recycled paper costs rise due to limited supplies, consider alternative fibres like wheat straw and bamboo for hand towels.
Additionally, adopting systems that alert service workers when dispensers are empty can prevent customer complaints and maintain a consistently clean washroom.
The cleanliness and maintenance of your washrooms are paramount for your business's success.
It's not just about appearances; it's about creating a safe, inviting, and professional environment.
By investing in cleaning services and adopting sustainable practices, you can elevate the washroom experience, impress clients and partners, and ensure the satisfaction of your employees and visitors.
Creating the Right Environment
Don't underestimate the power of a clean washroom – it can be your secret weapon for success.
If your commercial space is looking for a full service janitorial team to respond to your unique needs and challenges, reach out to Metropolitan today!
by Theresa | Mar 11, 2015 | Cleaning Industry, Commercial Cleaning, Floor Maintenance
At the BCCCA luncheon on January 27th, 2015, attendees were privileged to dive into the world of asset management during an enlightening workshop presented by Tim Clifford of Wood Wyant.
In this blog, we’ll provide the key takeaways from Tim’s comprehensive presentation on the critical role janitors play in the asset management of your floors and carpets.
Let’s explore how understanding and implementing asset management strategies can significantly benefit your business.
Recognizing the Significance of Asset Management
Floors: A Priceless Investment
For many of our customers, their floors represent a substantial investment in any industry.
Floors endure a level of wear and tear unmatched by other surfaces.
Shockingly, it’s estimated that a whopping 80% of the dirt entering a building does so via hard water.
Properly caring for these floors is not just about appearances; it’s about safeguarding a valuable asset.
The Complexity of Floor Care
In today’s world, maintaining floors is more challenging than ever.
The diversity of flooring surfaces demands a deep understanding of each to extend their lifespan. And a given facility might have multiple types.
The goal is not merely to keep them looking good but to ensure they reach their full expected life span.
Doing More with Less
Are you constantly asked to do more with fewer resources? Do some floors stubbornly appear dirty despite your cleaning efforts?
If you’ve answered “yes” to either of these questions, it’s a clear indication that you need an effective Asset Management Program.
But are your cleaners using the right method and optimizing their practices for your facility?
People Assets: Labour and Challenges
Labour: A Major Expenditure
Labour constitutes one of the most significant expenses in any contract.
Different floors require varying amounts of time for cleaning, drying, and ensuring safety.
Modern floor types present unique challenges, and making sure you’re using the right amount of time for the right asset is crucial to getting optimal longevity and consistent appearance.
Paying for less time now, when more is needed, will end up costing you in the end. Make sure your cleaners aren’t just saying “yes” to get your contract–have they provided you with insight into the best solution?
The Right Tools for the Job
Efficiency is key, and the right tools can make all the difference.
A commercial cleaning company worth its salt will have developed the most effective and efficient methods based on the best tools.
They should focus on ergonomics, safety, and productivity to optimize their labour resources and provide you with the best outcomes.
Balancing Short-Term and Long-Term Costs
Money Matters: Short-Term vs. Long-Term Costs
Managers tend to concentrate on short-term costs, primarily labour and maintenance.
However, it’s essential to consider the long-term cost of the asset itself.
Saving a dollar per hour on labour might seem beneficial now, but it could significantly reduce the asset’s useful life.
The cost of having to buy new floors or carpets sooner than expected will be a far greater expense than opting for regular cleaning services done right.
Extending Asset Life: A Financial Win-Win
Consider this: the average life of an installed carpet is 5-15 years if not properly maintained, which can cost a client a substantial $50,000 annually (for a $250,000 asset).
By extending the carpet’s life to eight or ten years, the annual cost significantly decreases, presenting substantial savings.
This approach is not only financially attractive but also showcases your commitment to protecting your client’s investments and working toward greener and more sustainable practices.
Key Considerations for Floor Finish
The Right Finish Matters
When applying a finish to a floor, several crucial considerations often go overlooked.
Will the finish adhere to the surface? Could it potentially damage the surface? Is it possible to strip the finish without harming the underlying surface?
These factors play a pivotal role in successful floor maintenance.
Proactive Maintenance: Capture the Unseen
Implementing daily maintenance programs can capture the 10% to 40% of dirt and debris that often evade the matting placed outside the door.
These programs ensure a cleaner, safer, and healthier environment.
Interim Maintenance: Avoiding Major Restorations
Regular, scheduled deep scrubbing can prevent the need for extensive restorative processes, such as stripping the floor surface.
Avoiding these intensive tasks saves time, money, and resources as well.
Investing in Your Cleaning Business for a Brighter Future
By delving into the world of asset management, you’re not only enhancing the aesthetics of your workspace but also safeguarding your client’s investments.
If you’re interested in extending the life of your assets, like flooring, carpets, windows, and more, reach out to Metropolitan Building Maintenance to find out how we can help.
by Theresa | Feb 25, 2015 | Cleaning Industry, Commercial Cleaning
Supporting Education and Nutrition
Socially responsible companies are more important today than ever and more and more people want to work with such companies.
That is how initiatives like Breakfast for Learning’s grants are making a profound impact on schools across Canada where hungry children are receiving the nourishment they need to kickstart their school day.
These nutrition programs not only address the immediate needs of students but also contribute to their education and foster a sense of community.
In this article, we explore the significance of socially responsible companies and the remarkable work being done by Breakfast for Learning.
The Impact of a School Nutrition Program
Getting kids ready for back-to-school means starting every day right.
Breakfast for Learning has been a lifeline for over 1,899 schools in Canada over the past two decades.
They have provided more than 554 million meals and snacks, nourishing the minds and bodies of over 3.6 million children. But what makes the impact of a school nutrition program so significant?
Phil, a dedicated teacher at a school supported by Breakfast for Learning, offers an enlightening perspective.
His school introduced a nutrition program several years ago, thanks to Breakfast for Learning’s support.
This initiative has completely transformed the school into a happier and calmer place.
As a volunteer with the breakfast program, Phil witnesses firsthand the profound influence it has on students, both in and out of the classroom.
“I watch each week as my most vulnerable students have a healthy breakfast, a snack, or lunch, and are then more prepared to learn and participate actively in school and social activities,” Phill explains. He emphasizes that the food choices offered by the nutrition program have also sparked awareness and an appetite for healthier snack alternatives.
Phil concludes, “Instead of feeling tired, hungry, and possibly different because they don’t have food from home, these students are happier, more engaged, and it may make coming to school that much easier for them. I can personally attest that greater connection and engagement have a positive influence on academic success.”
Supporting Socially Responsible Companies: Giving Back to Communities
As we emphasize the importance of socially responsible companies, we delve into a broader perspective of their role in the community.
These companies exemplify the essence of giving back, recognizing that their contributions extend beyond profits.
They understand the importance of being a force for good and actively invest in their communities, reaping various benefits while fulfilling a crucial societal need.
The Importance of Giving Back
For companies, giving back is not merely a charitable act; it’s a strategic imperative. It reflects a commitment to social responsibility and ethical business practices.
By actively engaging in philanthropic endeavours, these companies demonstrate their dedication to making a positive impact on society.
Community engagement is a two-way street. When companies invest in their communities, they build trust and goodwill among their neighbours and customers.
Meeting a Societal Need
Socially responsible companies recognize a fundamental societal need – the need for support and assistance where it matters most.
They understand that their success is intertwined with the well-being of the communities they serve.
By giving back, they actively address societal challenges, contribute to the greater good, and help build stronger, more resilient communities.
Socially Responsible Companies are Making a Difference Together
Socially responsible companies play a pivotal role in supporting initiatives such as Breakfast for Learning.
The impact of these programs goes beyond nourishing children; they shape their futures and build stronger, more connected communities.
You too can make a difference by contributing to this or any other social cause.
Investing in All of Our Futures
By choosing to support initiatives like Breakfast for Learning, we collectively nurture the bodies and minds of our future leaders, ensuring a brighter tomorrow.
Metropolitan Building Maintenance is a proud supporter of Breakfast Club of Canada, Union Gospel Mission, World Vision, and the BC Cancer Society.
If you’re interested in our services or a free quote, contact us today!
