Depending on where you live and what type of window washing you want to do, there is a lot of money in the window washing world. We have all had that daydream while typing away at our computers at work. Wouldn’t it be nice to be your own boss? It sure would! And one of the best ways to do this is to start a window washing business. However, that doesn’t mean quit your job tomorrow to begin working on your new project.
That is because if you want to make sure that you have a secure plan, marketing strategy, and the funds to accomplish your goals. Want to know how to begin a window washing company? If so, keep reading this post.
Research
The first thing you want to do before starting a window franchise is conduct research. While it is true that there is plenty of glass business opportunity out there, you want to ensure you understand all of the ins and outs of the business.
Jumping into any project without understanding the components will set you up for failure. So, hop online and utilize the internet whenever you have a free moment. Look up the best way to wash windows.
That way, you know what goes into the process. While you are at it, go ahead and research other window washing companies in your area. Make notes about what you think makes them successful.
Be sure to pay attention to their logo, marketing, and list of services. Along with that, you want to check out how to gain customers and clients right off the bat. That means researching how to be a boss and a manager for yourself.
Double-Check Your Commitment to Start Window Washing Business
Quitting a secure job is a huge step and a scary one at that. Some people think that they want to stop working for someone else and start their own companies, only to find out how much work it entails.
So, before you make that life-changing move to starting window business, take some time to sit down and ask yourself if this is something you want to chase. Are you committed enough to put forth the time, energy, and expenses to get your business running? By spending some one-on-one time with your thoughts, you will determine how ready you are to begin a glass franchise or a window franchise.
Write Your Business Plan
The next step is to write your business plan. This handy document will outline everything you need to know about your potential business.
Creating a business plan is a vital element that all business owners must endure. That way, you ensure you highlight your short-term goals as well as the long-term.
In your business plan, you will want to include:
- Executive summary
- Company description
- Objective statement
- Business structure
- Products and services
- Marketing plan
- Financial analysis
- Financial projections
In your business plan, be sure to conduct a market analysis. What that means is surveying how the window washing market is doing in your area.
It will also allow you to keep track of your competitors and their clients. An analysis will also help you choose whether you want to work in residential or commercial services.
It is true that many window franchise services market to both. However, when you begin a company, it might be wise to pick one or the other. If you do both, you may have more work than you can handle.
That is especially true if you do not have employees to send out to different locations. In your analysis, pay attention to whether the demand is for residential or commercial services.
Ask yourself, “where is the best window business opportunity?”. If you live in a big city full of skyscrapers, you might consider commercial. However, if you are in a town or neighborhood, think about adhering to apartments or homeowners.
Think About Marketing Your Window Franchise
Your marketing strategy is essential to getting your business off the ground. You don’t just need to create a business. You should create a brand. Something that sticks out from the other countless window washing businesses.
The first thing to consider is your name. Don’t make it generic, and be sure to spend some time choosing one. A bland name won’t garner customer attraction.
However, something like a play on words will make people stop to check you out. It will also help potential clients remember your company. The next thing to do is create a logo that people will identify as your business because people respond to visual stimuli.
There are several logos that we assimilate with companies. Think about the Nike swoosh or the king of Burger King.
Once you develop your logo idea, hire a company to design the image. That way, they can properly size it to fit any advertisement items you wish to use, like business cards or t-shirts.
Figure Out Your Budget
Before you quit your job to start a window franchise or a glass repair franchise, you need to budget. Separate your personal finances from your business finances.
Once you do that, you can see what your expenses are to add to your start-up costs. Beginning in glass repair or window washing is relatively inexpensive compared to other businesses. However, you still need to put forth a few thousand dollars to ensure you have everything you need, like:
- Liability insurance
- Commercial vehicle
- Utilities
- Cleaning tools
- Ladders
- Gasoline
- Maintenance
- Marketing and advertisements
- Invoicing software
- Licenses
- Permits
Along with these costs, you will need to figure out where you want to work. Do you want office space?
If so, you need to add rent into your budget. One of the tips for this is to find a window business for sale. That way, everything is set up how you need already. However, if you decide to work from home, you won’t have to worry about paying a monthly fee plus extra bills.
Decide on Services
Figure out a list of services to offer your clients. What is it that you want to do? Many companies offer more than just window washing.
Some people branch out o window and glass repair, door repair, and installation services. Once you figure out what you want to do, list them on your website along with the prices.
More on Start a Window Washing Business
As you can tell, there are several things you must consider before you start a window washing business. Quitting your job tomorrow may be more detrimental to your long-term goals.
While tempting, stick with it until you secure a financial plan and a branding strategy that will set you apart from all of the other businesses out there.
And always be sure that you are ready to put forth the time and commitment it takes to run a new company. If you want more tips on window washing or need window repairs, please feel free to contact us here at Window Medics.