We recently connected with Lana Conlon and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Lana thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Taking care of customers isn’t just good business – it is often one of the main reasons folks went into business in the first place. So, we’d love to get a conversation going around how to best help clients feel appreciated – maybe you can share something you’ve done or seen someone do that’s been really effective at helping a customer feel valued?

From my perspective, small gestures have a significant impact. Demonstrating gratitude to clients is about valuing their principles. Respecting their time by being punctual for appointments and making every effort to complete projects as agreed means a great deal to them. What matters to your customer should hold the same importance to you. Another example would be promptly responding to clients’ calls, emails, or messages, as it truly sets you apart from your competitors.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

Managing two businesses that are my true passions brings me incredible joy. As the owner of a residential cleaning company with over a thousand appointments under my belt, witnessing my clients’ happiness as they come home to a clean and well-maintained space is fulfilling. This allows them to cherish moments with their families and friends, and in general, to change their lives for the better. Such positive impact drives me to provide the best service possible. When your clients consistently select you as the top cleaning business in the area for several years, it motivates you to give back to the community even more. I am deeply thankful to my clients for their enduring support.
On the other hand, I recently have started a new online training program for professional cleaners, the Residential Cleaning Academy. that enables me to create a platform to share my expertise and prepare aspiring entrepreneurs who wish to delve into this industry. It is a common misconception that having exceptional cleaning skills in their own homes guarantees success in a professional cleaning business. However, the reality is that running a cleaning company requires a unique set of skills that go beyond just knowing how to clean effectively. For the same reason, not every exceptional cook can thrive in a restaurant setting. My goal is not only to educate on proper home cleaning techniques but also to provide guidance on becoming a business owner, administrative assistant, salesperson, and social media manager for your company. Without a solid understanding of these business fundamentals, even the most skilled cleaner may struggle to turn their passion into a profitable venture. I remember when I officially opened my cleaning business, finding essential information was an incredibly time-consuming process. That’s why I’ve made sure that all you need to start your own cleaning business journey will be at your fingertips on my website www.therca.net. This way, my students can focus on mastering important cleaning skills and growing their businesses without getting lost in the sea of information available online. I aim to empower aspiring professional cleaners to build successful and sustainable businesses in the competitive cleaning industry and to support them throughout their entrepreneurial path. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced cleaner looking to expand your business, the end result is to help you not only succeed in the cleaning industry but also to enjoy the journey of entrepreneurship.

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

After completing a project for a client, I try to do my best to collect their feedback as soon as possible, to ensure satisfaction and maintain a positive relationship. I prefer to gather feedback exclusively over the phone or in person. This open line of communication allows me to build trust and also helps to address any issues or concerns promptly, preventing small problems from escalating into larger ones.
When clients feel that their opinion is valued, they are more likely to spread the word about your services to friends, family, and colleagues. Positive word-of-mouth recommendations can be incredibly powerful in attracting new business and expanding your client base. Happy clients who have had a great experience with you can become your best advocates. If you make it a priority to consistently seek feedback and deliver exceptional service, you can nurture a loyal client base that not only continues to use your services but also promotes them to others.

Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?

One of the best concepts that helped me manage and grow my businesses was adopting a debt-free mentality, inspired by Dave Ramsey. While Ramsey is widely known for his personal wealth growth advice, his business wisdom is equally important. His principle of avoiding borrowing money for business expansion and instead allowing it to grow organically, resonated with me deeply. By following this approach, that became my core business philosophy, I was able to build a strong foundation for my companies without being burdened by unnecessary debt. This approach not only provided financial stability but also allowed me to focus on delivering quality service to my clients.

Contact Info:

• Website: www,therca.net
• Instagram: @ shineperfectionjax
• Facebook: @rcashine
• Other: Pinterest: @ shineperfectionllc