Reviewing the cleaning proposal of one of the largest janitorial companies in the country, what I now see missing was anything specifically related to health.
Yes, in one area of the proposal, it does indicate, “our program is designed to support a healthier environment for all building users,” but that’s it.
The proposal does not go into any specifics. This proposal was prepared more than a year ago, so it likely reflects what most cleaning proposals for both large and small cleaning companies included when it comes to “health.”
That will not suffice any longer, not in the age of coronavirus. Cleaning contractors will need to create entire sections in their proposals, discussing the steps they are taking to protect the health of building users.
As I referenced in an earlier blog, everything in our industry has changed now as a result of the virus. The steps we are taking and will be taking in the future to help keep people and facilities healthy are going to become permanent, there will be no going back.
So, what actions should cleaning contractors now make regarding their proposals in this age of coronavirus? Among them are the following:
· Create an entire Health Assurance section in your proposal.
· State why it has been created. Saying a few words on how it reflects your company’s commitment to facility health should suffice. However, be sure and include a few words indicating these are steps you have taken since the coronavirus became such a serious issue. Your prospects will want to know what changes you have made in your cleaning operations due the outbreak.
· List what actions you are taking specifically to protect the health of building users, starting with the types of cleaning supplies and solutions selected as well as equipment and tools. Be sure to add a few comments explaining why these tools will help protect the health of building users.
· Discuss health-protecting training programs you have started with your team. This includes “best practices” instruction your team has taken, designed to improve cleaning effectiveness as well as protect the health of building users.
· Mention your commitment to selecting new products and adopt new cleaning technologies that can help protect the health of building users. For instance, several manufacturers are now making disinfecting misters. At the start of the year, many contractors likely doubted they would need such products. However, today and specifically in some settings, they may not be awarded a cleaning contract if they do not have them included as part of their cleaning arsenal.
· Include the steps you are taking to help protect the health of your cleaning workers. Remember, this disease is primarily transferred from person to person. You need your staff to stay healthy at all costs.
Finally, make sure the entire Health Assurance section is presented in easy to understand layman’s terms. Many cleaning proposals are written using somewhat technical, even legal terminology. Using these terms often causes confusion. When it comes to protecting the health of building users, prospects want to be able to clearly understand what steps you are taking to protect the health of their facility.
Ron Segura helps cleaning contractors grow. He has over 50 years of experience in all segments of the professional cleaning industry including ten years as Manager of Janitorial Operations for Walt Disney Pictures and Television. To contact him, call 650-315-8933..
