Happy New Year

January 1^st obviously ushers in a New Year. It’s a time that many reflect upon their previous accomplishments and failures. Then we look forward vowing to correct or not to repeat our failures. We also plot and plan for the time to come. Each of us has goals and aspirations. We should always strive to achieve them. If you are not moving forward, then it is inevitable that you will become stagnate or worse yet begin to move backwards.

So, after all that reflection, we usually come up with New Year Resolutions. They come in a variety of purposes, personal, family, business and community among them.

1. Improve physical well being.
2. Improve mental health.
3. Improve finances.
4. Improve career.
5. Improve knowledge.
6. Volunteer.
7. Spend quality time with family and friends.
8. Be more spiritual.

The following passage was written by Bishop John H. Vincent in 1909. It is appropriate not only on New Years Day but every day of our lives:

“I will this day try to live a simple, sincere and serene life. I will repel promptly every thought of discontent, anxiety, discouragement, impurity and self-seeking. I will cultivate cheerfulness, magnanimity, charity and the habit of silence. I will exercise economy in expenditure, carefulness in conversation, diligence in appointed service, fidelity to every trust and a child-like trust in God.”

Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times^® at https://www.baneclene.com/publications/.

Please visit our new and improved web site at https://www.baneclene.com.

The Bane-Clene^® Team.

Happy Holidays

The holidays have been in full swing since early December. Many dates are celebrated or commemorated during this month. Naming a few but certainly not all:

• Kwanzaa A celebration of Family, Community and Culture
  
• HanukkahThe celebration of the Jewish Festival of Lights
  
• Milad Un Nabi The Muslim culture commemorates the birth of the Prophet Muhammad
  
• Christmas Day The Christian culture commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ

However, even if you don’t practice or believe, they all have many points in common. The one we will focus on is that they all promote “Peace on Earth and Goodwill to all”. Once again, no matter what you practice or don’t, if you have not already done so, take a few moments to reflect on that common factor.

Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog.

The Bane-Clene^® Team

Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times^® at https://www.baneclene.com/publications/.

Please visit our new and improved web site at https://www.baneclene.com.

The Bane-Clene^® Team.

Dispatching and Scheduling

Dispatching and Scheduling

With the costs of fuel and maintenance for your vehicles, efficient scheduling will minimize these costs and add to your bottom line. One method that helps is dividing your service area into quadrants.

One Dispatcher Is A Necessity

Whether you are a one or multi-truck operation, one person should handle the scheduling of your service appointments. This will leave little chance for errors or confusion when it comes to dispatching.

Routing Your Work

Routing should be done the night before; this allows a chance to re-evaluate the upcoming days’ work. It also affords an opportunity to make adjustments and therefore maximize your service vehicle(s)’ schedule. Double check the work loads and, if you are a multi-truck operation, make sure no crew is overbooked.

One Truck Operations

While having one truck may seem to make scheduling a no brain-er, there are some things to consider. If possible, only schedule your truck in one quadrant a day. Obviously, traveling from one side of your service area to another each day defeats the idea of minimizing costs. Also, you only make money when that vehicle is cleaning carpet not traveling.

Multi-Truck Operations

Having a multi-truck operation would seem to make scheduling and dispatching easier. While that is true, it also multiplies your daily expenses for travel and maintenance. Whether you have your scheduling on a computer or do it by hand, booking them is the first step to an efficient system. The dispatcher/scheduler should book them originally based upon whatever system you have set up. Once again a quadrant system works well. Then, when it comes time to lay out the actual jobs for that day, they should fit into those quadrants.

Driving Directions And Maps

We always suggest getting either directions or at least main cross street coordinates for your driver(s). This will minimize the time spent in getting to the service location. Google maps can also help but caution them not to look at their phones while they are driving. Also Google maps may not “map” out the most efficient route. Some companies rely on the voice assisted travel instructions available on various phones, but they do have limitations.

The Customer Comes First

This is a major rule for all service companies. Sure, we want to save time and money in our dispatching and scheduling. However, there are times when a customers’ needs outweigh that intention. Never turn down a job because it doesn’t fit into your schedule.

Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog^®.

Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times^® at https://www.baneclene.com/publications/.

Please visit our new and improved web site at https://www.baneclene.com.

The Bane-Clene^® Team.

Remember Pearl Harbor

That was the battle cry of WW II. President Roosevelt (FDR) said, “Sunday, December 7, 1941, a day that will live in infamy”. Not many are alive who remember that fateful morning when the attack took place on our Pacific Fleet as it lay at anchor. Those who were there will never forget and others will never forget it or where they were when they heard the news.

As we commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Pearl Harbor attack, a thought comes to mind. Will “Remember Pearl Harbor”, “Remember the Maine” and “Remember the Alamo” become forgotten or irrelevant? Not because those that were there or were aware of it are gone. But because they have been relegated to the back pages of History books that are routinely ignored by many schools? Will 9/11 and other recent terrorists events someday join them?

Unfortunately, there has been a tremendous cost in the loss of lives in these tragic events. Thank God for our brave troops and first responders who have been involved in them. In this land of plenty and freedoms, with all our problems, people still yearn to come to live here. But remember “Freedom is not free”.

Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog^®.

Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times^® at https://www.baneclene.com/publications/.

Please visit our new and improved web site at https://www.baneclene.com.

The Bane-Clene^® Team.

PRUDENT FINANCIAL PLANNING

Owning a small business affords us opportunities that working for someone may not. While we are blessed, we must also be diligent to protect these opportunities.

So, with that in mind, we offer an outline of objectives, goals and suggestions.

A. What are the Objectives of a Small Business.

1. Build a profitable business entity with minimal exposure of risk capital.
2. Improve lifestyle for you, your family and your employees.
3. Provide higher education opportunities for your children.
4. Build financial security for retirement.

B. There will be needs for Debt but establish Acceptable Amounts to manage.
Some of these are:

1. Building
2. Equipment
3. Vehicles
4. Office Technology

C. Goals

1. Once again, keep long term debt to an acceptable level.
2. Establish an IRA or other retirement fund.
3. Set up Cash Reserves (rainy day fund).
4. Use excess capital to pay down any contract debt.

D. Ways to Accomplish your Business Objectives and Goals.

1. Practice prudent purchasing and budget habits.
2. Avoid exotic and or expensive vacations.
3. Be as productive as possible during business hours.

E. Mottoes to Live By.

1. “You cannot go broke if you do not owe anyone.”
2. “It’s not how much money you make in your lifetime that matters; it’s what you do with it afterwards.”

Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog^®.

Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times^® at https://www.baneclene.com/publications/.

Please visit our new and improved web site at https://www.baneclene.com.

The Bane-Clene^® Team.

Thanksgiving Day

Thanksgiving is truly a special day. It was first celebrated in 1621 when the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag Native Americans shared a fall harvest. In 1863, President Lincoln proclaimed a national day of thanksgiving to be celebrated each year on the fourth Thursday of November.

Thanksgiving Day is more than memories, food, football and parades. It is a day of thanks. On this day, we are reminded of the bounty of treasures that are a part of our everyday lives.

We spend a few, often too brief, moments in prayer or meditation before dinner to say thanks for our family, friends and the wonderfulness of our lives. The true meaning of Thanksgiving should not end there. Ponder the two words that are involved: thanks and giving. We should therefore be reminded to give thanks and to share. Take the time to share our economic benefits, material wealth and talents with those who can use our help.

Once again as you sit down to dinner, ponder the true meaning of Thanksgiving.

Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog^®.

Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times^® at https://www.baneclene.com/publications/.

Please visit our new and improved web site at https://www.baneclene.com.

The Bane-Clene^® Team.

B.Y.O.B - "Building Your Own Carpet Cleaning Business"

At a recent school, one of the students said that they didn't have a lot of money starting out to invest into advertising. We feel advertising is one of the building blocks and therefore paramount to a business. However, we also appreciate the financial struggles of a young company. Keeping that in mind, we shared some of the potential contacts and ideas we incorporated when we started out.

1. Family members, relatives, friends and neighbors. Ask them to spread the word.
2. Offer substantial discounts to former co-workers and boss, as long as your leaving was not a source of conflict.
3. Social groups, clubs, athletic leagues, lodges, fraternities, sororities, alumni groups, Home Owner Associations. Take advantage of these groups whether you are or are not a member. Discounts or perhaps free "Carpet Protector" are possible ideas.
4. Church or religious affiliations. With these contacts, it is suggested you offer a demonstration. You will offer to clean so many square feet of carpeting at no charge for each person that attends the demonstration. At the demonstration, serve coffee and soft drinks. After the demonstration, have a question and answer session. You should also distribute literature and your business card. Another idea is to distribute a Gift Service Certificate to those present.

These are just a few of either low or no cost ideas to promote your business.

Additional Carpet Cleaning Business Information on the Bane-Clene web site:

• Advertising the Bane-Clene® Way

Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog^®.

Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times^® at https://www.baneclene.com/publications/.

Please visit our new and improved web site at https://www.baneclene.com.

The Bane-Clene^® Team.

Recruiting Tips

Good help is paramount to a successful service business but how do we find good people?

Always carry your business card with you. You never know who you will meet or see.

Anytime you see someone who is:

1. pleasant to people
2. treats people with respect
3. is articulate

give them your business card and tell them you have an employment opportunity.

You will find prospects everywhere. Fast food restaurants, oil change shops, grocery stores, department store clerks ... anywhere people are being served. Look for the good ones. Most will not respond but every once in a while one will.

Your customers can be a source as well. Mention to them when you are in their home that you are hiring and would appreciate any prospects they could refer to you. Offer to clean their carpeting for free if you hire their referral.

Remember the saying: "It never hurts to ask"

Additional Carpet Cleaning Business Information on the Bane-Clene web site:

• Hiring New Carpet Cleaning Technicians
• Twenty Steps to Success in the Carpet Cleaning Business

Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog^®.

Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times^® at https://www.baneclene.com/publications/.

Please visit our new and improved web site at https://www.baneclene.com.

The Bane-Clene^® Team.

Bane-Clene Information Request Form

Free packet of information about Bane-Clene can be obtained by calling toll-free 1-800-428-9512 (U.S. ONLY!).

Your information packet will include a full color catalog and price addendum. Packets will arrive in approximately 2 weeks through standard United States Mail.

You can also order the packet at the Catalog Request Form.

Building Brand Recognition

No matter whether you are providing a service or selling a product you must Build Brand Recognition.

While there are many media choices available, an On-Line Presence is increasingly and will continue to be the media of choice. We will briefly outline some ways to achieve that.

1. Website with Mobile Optimization
   A high percentage of searches are done on mobile devices, so your site needs to be mobile friendly. Your website doesn't have to be elaborate but it should contain your basic information. The services you offer, the area you service, your service hours and a short history of your company and its credentials are just a few topics to cover.
2. Set up your free business profile on sites such as:
   
   1. Google, Yahoo, Bing and other search engines. You can either "claim" an existing business listing or add your business profile. You will be able to add services, hours, website link and other pertinent information.
   2. Angie's List, Yelp, Pinterest and other review/referral sites will enable to also create business profiles and gain reviews.
3. Social Media: Facebook, Google+, Twitter, Instagram, etc.
   Social media activity can help to increase awareness of a brand or website content and help with "organic" search rankings.
4. You Tube: Create a video about your business and services.
5. Offer On-Line coupons through your website, social media pages and other outlets.

Obviously there are multiple other media choices such as: print, phone book, direct mail, radio and TV. These offer unique and varied ways to reach your market. You can implement them as need and or resources become available.

Additional Carpet Cleaning Business Information on the Bane-Clene web site:

• Advertising . . . the Essential Element
• Advertising the Bane-Clene® Way
• The ABC's of Advertising
• Why Doesn't My Carpet Cleaning Business Advertising Work?
• Yellow Pages

Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog^®.

Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times^® at https://www.baneclene.com/publications/.

Please visit our new and improved web site at www.baneclene.com.

The Bane-Clene^® Team.

Bane-Clene Information Request Form

Free packet of information about Bane-Clene can be obtained by calling toll-free 1-800-428-9512 (U.S. ONLY!).

Your information packet will include a full color catalog and price addendum. Packets will arrive in approximately 2 weeks through standard United States Mail.

You can also order the packet at the Catalog Request Form.

Public Relations "Success" Formula

Public relations are part of the foundation of a successful business. You may be the best at what you do. However, if you cannot properly communicate with your customers, employees, vendors and others you see everyday; then your chances for "success" are greatly diminished.

Consider the following important words when communicating with people.

1. The most important 6 words: "I admit I made an error"
2. The most important 5 words: "I am proud of you"
3. The most important 4 words: "What do you think"
4. The most important 3 words: "I appreciate it"
5. The most important 2 words: "Thank you"
6. The most important 1 word: "We"

Finally the least 1 important word: "I".

Additional Carpet Cleaning Business Information on the Bane-Clene web site:

• Four Characteristics of a Successful Person
• Starting and Building Your Own Carpet Cleaning Business
• The 15 Factors of Success in Carpet Cleaning Business
• Twenty Steps to Success in the Carpet Cleaning Business
• What makes a company successful in the Carpet Cleaning Business?

Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog^®.

Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times^® at https://www.baneclene.com/publications/.

Please visit our new and improved web site at https://www.baneclene.com.

The Bane-Clene^® Team.

Bane-Clene Information Request Form

Free packet of information about Bane-Clene can be obtained by calling toll-free 1-800-428-9512 (U.S. ONLY!).

Your information packet will include a full color catalog and price addendum. Packets will arrive in approximately 2 weeks through standard United States Mail.

You can also order the packet at the Catalog Request Form.

Insurance for Carpet Cleaning Businesses

The recent natural disasters might cause us to think, "do I have enough insurance"?

Many times in a small business our personal and business insurance may be intertwined. This may be especially true, if you start your business by working out of your home.

When asked about insurance we always recommend having your insurance professional evaluate and personalize your plan to fit your business. You will want them to look at the advantages and disadvantages of combining personal and business insurance.

These are some of the basic guidelines, suggestions and coverages that we incorporate in the insurance package for the service division of Bane-Clene^® Corp.

Your Property, Buildings and Contents

• All Risk Coverage versus named perils
• Carry higher deductibles which will lower your premiums
• Business versus Personal property
• If you take customer items from their premises, consider off-premises, transit and or property floaters

Liability

• At your premises
• At your customers' premises
• Products and Completed Operations
• Independent Contractors' Coverages
• Customers' Property in your Care, Custody and Control
• Being able to provide your customers a Certificate of Insurance
• Have a customer agreement and waiver of liability form
• Once again higher deductibles mean lower premiums

Vehicles

• Property Damage
• Uninsured Motorist
• Comprehensive
• Injury and Personal Liability
• As always higher deductibles save money

Workers' Compensation

• Laws vary by State, your agent will guide you
• All States: voluntary compensation endorsements

Options

• Including your personal auto(s) and homeowners can get you package savings
• Crime Coverages
• Umbrella Policies

Related information on the Bane-Clene web site:

• The 15 Factors of Success in Carpet Cleaning Business

Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog^®.

Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times^® at https://www.baneclene.com/publications/.

Please visit our new and improved web site at https://www.baneclene.com.

The Bane-Clene^® Team.

Bane-Clene Information Request Form

Free packet of information about Bane-Clene can be obtained by calling toll-free 1-800-428-9512 (U.S. ONLY!).

Your information packet will include a full color catalog and price addendum. Packets will arrive in approximately 2 weeks through standard United States Mail.

You can also order the packet at the Catalog Request Form.

Eleven Commandments of Good Business

A Customer:

1. Is the most important person in our business
   
2. Is not dependent on us..we are dependent on them
   
3. Is not an interruption of our work..they are the purpose of it
   
4. Does us a favor when they call..we are not doing them a favor by serving them
   
5. Is a part of our business..not an outsider
   
6. Is not a statistic..they are a human being like us
   
7. Is not someone to argue or match wits with
   
8. Is a person who brings us a problem..it is our job to solve that problem
   
9. Is deserving of the most courteous and attentive treatment we can give them
   
10. Is the one that makes it possible to pay yours and your employees salaries
    
11. Is the life blood of ours and every other business

Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog^®.

Related carpet cleaning business information on the Bane-Clene® web site:

• There is No Substitute for Service
• Twenty Steps to Success in the Carpet Cleaning Business

Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times^® at https://www.baneclene.com/publications/.

Please visit our new and improved web site at https://www.baneclene.com.

The Bane-Clene^® Team.

Bane-Clene Information Request Form

Free packet of information about Bane-Clene can be obtained by calling toll-free 1-800-428-9512 (U.S. ONLY!).

Your information packet will include a full color catalog and price addendum. Packets will arrive in approximately 2 weeks through standard United States Mail.

You can also order the packet at the Catalog Request Form.

New Links For Your Website

Nice Way of Saying "Buyer Beware"

A Central Indiana BBB (Better Business Bureau) review of advertising stated that "the average person is exposed to between 3000 to 5000 advertising messages daily. Undoubtedly, a percentage of these messages will have some sort of spin or bias that is not entirely truthful. The BBB monitors local advertising but the ultimate responsibility rests with the consumer to verify that the claims made in an ad are factual. After verifying those claims, they can feel that they are making a prudent buying decision.

Our local newspaper, The Indianapolis Star, had a program they initiated called "The Deal Chicken". Apparently, all the good names must have been taken. Anyway, they ran an ad from a local Carpet Cleaner for 58%. The premise was that the consumer would "prepay" for these specials, and the specials were limited so they better hurry. By the way, the program is defunct and the Carpet Cleaner is out of business.

We wonder how many consumers took "advantage" of this and other specials from many types of services and retail outlets before this program went defunct? We would presume that many of the consumers were less than satisfied. The point being in all of this, is don't offer more of a discount or special that would prevent you from doing a good job. Not all consumers are looking for a "deal"; but, what they are looking for is a carpet cleaning company that provides a good service at a fair price.

At the Bane-Clene® Institute, we cover these and other important topics. We also have a wealth of information available on line in the "For Professionals" section at www.baneclene.com.

Related information on the Bane-Clene web site:

• Advertising the Bane-Clene Way
• Bait and Switch in the Carpet Cleaning Industry
• Customer Service
• How to Price Your Carpet Cleaning Services
• There Is No Substitute for Service

Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog^®.

Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times^® at https://www.baneclene.com/publications/.

Please visit our new and improved web site at https://www.baneclene.com.

The Bane-Clene^® Team.

SELL THE SIZZLE

We have all heard the slogan, "Don't sell the steak; sell the sizzle". Potential customers are motivated by different aspects of our business.

1. Clean carpets and furniture. In your sales presentation, make sure to mention "external extraction®" and tell them the benefits of removing soil, waste water and odorous air from their premises. The Bane-Clene® System improves Indoor Air Quality (IAQ).
   
2. Point out your system leaves the carpet soft and residue free so it will not attract and hold dirt. Therefore, their carpet will remain cleaner longer.
   
3. Mention that you utilize a Truck-Mounted Carpet Cleaning System and that you bring your own specially treated water with chemicals that are safe to them, their families and their pets. Also, you will take away all the waste water.
   
4. Further, mention that the Bane-Clene® System utilizes water pressures and temperatures that are safe on all fabrics.
   
5. Finally, you are welcome to direct your customers to our website https://baneclene.com/homeowners/. The Homeowners Home Page will provide them with more information about the system you use.

Related Advertising and Marketing Articles:

• Advertising the Bane-Clene Way
• Advertising - the Essential Element
• Compare Carpet Cleaning Methods

Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog^®

Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times^® at www.baneclene.com/publications/.

Please visit our web site at www.baneclene.com.

The Bane-Clene^® Team.

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Free Bane-Clene Information Package

Free packet of information about Bane-Clene can be obtained by calling toll-free 1-800-428-9512 (U.S. ONLY!). Your information packet will include a full color catalog and price addendum. Packets will arrive in approximately 2 weeks through standard United States Mail.

You can also order the packet at the Catalog Request Form.

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“A to Z” Alphabetical Index to the Bane-Clene Web Site

Bane-Clene Home Page

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Carpet Cleaning Industry Potential Ever since the inception of Bane-Clene® in 1962, there have been those who said that the carpet cleaning industry is short term. They also predicted it would get saturated (no pun intended) and will dry up. They have also said that too much competition will ruin the industry. Now they are saying that increased use of hard surface flooring and area rugs will weaken the industry. In 1962, there were about 6000 carpet cleaners in the country. Today there are more that 40000 carpet cleaning firms. This does not include building maintenance contractors, in-house operators and part timers. It has been estimated that more than 1,000,000 people are employed in our industry. In 1962, the carpet industry produced approximately 3000 million square yards of carpet. For the last several years there have been over 2 billion square yards of carpet manufactured annually in the USA. With the average life of carpet around eight years, it is estimated that there are more than 11 billion square yards of carpet waiting to be cleaned. That is more than 99 billion square feet. It has also been estimated that over a billion square feet of carpet is cleaned every year by a Bane-Clene® System operator. So that leaves a potential market of more than 98 billion square feet. That's obviously a lot of carpet. If you want to visualize a billion square yards of carpeting try this: it would make a twelve foot wide path around the world nearly six times. Since we are only actually cleaning a small portion of the potential, we have plenty of room to grow. We have not even begun to scratch the surface. Again, no pun intended. Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog®. Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times® at https://www.baneclene.com/publications/. Please visit our new and improved web site at https://www.baneclene.com. The Bane-Clene® Team.

How To Work Better

Here are some basic and simple ideas to follow and hopefully will help you work and live better.

1. Do one thing at a time. Don't start another task until you finish the one at hand.
   
2. Know the problem. If you don't know the problem, you can't solve it.
   
3. Learn to listen. That's why you have two ears and one mouth.
   
4. Learn to ask questions. It will help you solve problems quickly and efficiently.
   
5. Distinguish sense from nonsense. It may prevent you from making a mistake.
   
6. Accept change as inevitable and go with the flow. You will be happier for it.
   
7. Admit mistakes. No person is perfect.
   
8. Say it simply. Don't complicate your words.
   
9. Be calm. Doesn't that say it all?
   
10. Smile. It helps prevent stress and anxiety.

Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog^®.

Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times^® at https://www.baneclene.com/publications/.

Please visit our new and improved web site at https://www.baneclene.com.

The Bane-Clene^® Team.

Four Characteristics of a Successful Person

OPTIMISM

Optimistic people cultivate confidence rather than fear and belief rather than doubt. Also, they look for good rather than evil. They love rather than hate and they forgive rather than carry resentment. Living to a positive force of life will promote happiness and health and helps prolong our lives.

IMAGINATION

Life is always happening and evolving. Sometimes it shows itself with beauty and kindness and at other times it shows itself with ugliness and harshness. It may thrust itself upon us with difficult problems. Imagination is the tool that will help us solve those problems.

INDIVIDUALISM

Life presents itself with the needs of others which is the nature of our service business. Customers need us to respect and understand them. There are times we may feel indifferent to them, however strong individuals respond to these wants and needs and are rewarded handsomely.

ENTHUSIASM

Say yes to life through cheerfulness. A cheery response may seem difficult at times because the situation does not invite a cheerful mood. Each of us at times could do a better job of being cheerful even if we don't feel that way. Look happy, be happy and perform happy actions. Success never fails those not afraid to try to be successful. Being cheerful will add joy to your life and to those you come in contact with.

Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog^®.

Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times^® at https://www.baneclene.com/publications/.

Please visit our new and improved web site at https://www.baneclene.com.

The Bane-Clene^® Team.

Labor Day

Labor Day is September 4th. It is a federal holiday which honors the American worker. Who has added to the prosperity and well being of our country. Certainly we as Carpet Cleaners fit into this classification.

In 1887 Oregon became the first state to make Labor Day an official public holiday. By the time it became an official federal holiday in 1894, thirty states officially celebrated it.

Labor Day has been labeled the "unofficial end of summer" because it marks the end of the cultural summer season. It is traditional for parades and picnics to be held in communities all across the country. Many fall activities also begin at this time.

During the Labor Day weekend the NCAA usually play their first football games. The NFL traditionally plays their kickoff game the Thursday after Labor Day. The Southern 500 NASCAR auto race is held at Darlington Raceway in Darlington, South Carolina. At Indianapolis Raceway Park the NHRA hold their finals for the U.S. National Drag races. It is also the middle point between weeks one and two of the U.S. Open Tennis Championships held in Flushing Meadow, NY.

Once again there are a plethora of National, State and Local activities that take place Labor Day Weekend.

Wherever you are, whoever you are with take time to acknowledge yourselves and the hard work you do and the fact that our small businesses are the backbone of our country.

Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog^®.

Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times^® at https://www.baneclene.com/publications/.

Please visit our new and improved web site at https://www.baneclene.com.

The Bane-Clene^® Team.

Be Positive

Starting a conversation with a negative statement will probably offend a customer. An example of this: "There is no way I can take care of your job for at least a week". You want to say: "We can schedule that for Friday of next week, will that be convenient for you?" Scheduling a service trip without having to call back removes doubt from the customer's mind regarding your interest in working for them. Try to set the appointment at that time.

Slang or technical terms that a customer may not appreciate or understand could cause them to feel uncomfortable with your company. Using proper definitive language and information with regard to their questions and needs sets the tone for a good relationship and resulting repeat and referral business.

At the Bane-Clene® Institute, we cover these and other important topics. We also have a wealth of information available on line in the "For Professionals" section at www.baneclene.com.

Related information on the Bane-Clene web site:

• Customer Service
• There Is No Substitute for Service

Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog^®.

Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times^® at https://www.baneclene.com/publications/.

Please visit our new and improved web site at https://www.baneclene.com.

The Bane-Clene^® Team.

Nice Way of Saying "Buyer Beware"

A Central Indiana BBB (Better Business Bureau) review of advertising stated that "the average person is exposed to between 3000 to 5000 advertising messages daily. Undoubtedly, a percentage of these messages will have some sort of spin or bias that is not entirely truthful. The BBB monitors local advertising but the ultimate responsibility rests with the consumer to verify that the claims made in an ad are factual. After verifying those claims, they can feel that they are making a prudent buying decision.

Our local newspaper, The Indianapolis Star, had a program they initiated called "The Deal Chicken". Apparently, all the good names must have been taken. Anyway, they ran an ad from a local Carpet Cleaner for 58%. The premise was that the consumer would "prepay" for these specials, and the specials were limited so they better hurry. By the way, the program is defunct and the Carpet Cleaner is out of business.

We wonder how many consumers took "advantage" of this and other specials from many types of services and retail outlets before this program went defunct? We would presume that many of the consumers were less than satisfied. The point being in all of this, is don't offer more of a discount or special that would prevent you from doing a good job. Not all consumers are looking for a "deal"; but, what they are looking for is a carpet cleaning company that provides a good service at a fair price.

At the Bane-Clene® Institute, we cover these and other important topics. We also have a wealth of information available on line in the "For Professionals" section at www.baneclene.com.

Related information on the Bane-Clene web site:

• Advertising the Bane-Clene Way
• Bait and Switch in the Carpet Cleaning Industry
• Customer Service
• How to Price Your Carpet Cleaning Services
• There Is No Substitute for Service

Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog^®.

Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times^® at https://www.baneclene.com/publications/.

Please visit our new and improved web site at https://www.baneclene.com.

The Bane-Clene^® Team.

The Cost of Doing Business

Every good business person strives to control their costs. But sometimes, we look in the wrong places to save money. One example of that is using ineffective chemicals because they cost less.

Buying an ineffective and inexpensive product has a direct and negative result. If you have to use more of it, is it really costing you less? At Bane-Clene®, we formulate our chemicals with a basic premise, lowest cost use solution. Which, simply put, means you can use less and get the job done and save money.

Another possible effect of using cheaper products is potential harm to the customers environment and the cleaners themselves and finally to your equipment. Gritty material or fillers added to powders will erode pumps, fittings, valves, etc. Potentially toxic additives to spotters and pre-sprays may cause eye, nose and throat irritation.

Also, the finished job will not look as good when cheap chemicals are used. After drying (which could take longer with these chemicals), the surface of the carpet may be hard or crusty and the appearance dull. This alone will result in losing customers. Often times, people do not complain, they just go somewhere else for service next time.

Owners of a Bane-Clene® System can clean everyday for less than $10.00. This figure is for basic cleaning chemicals, traffic lane spotters, etc. It, of course, does not include Plus Sales products such as Sta-Clene®, Bane-Guard ™ and deodorizing products. These are sold for an additional charge to the customer, while providing a benefit to them or solving a problem that exists.

At the Bane-Clene® Institute, we cover these and other important topics. We also have a wealth of information available on line in the "For Professionals" section at www.baneclene.com.

Related information on the Bane-Clene web site:

• How to Price Your Carpet Cleaning Services
• Make More Money with Carpet and Upholstery Protectors!

Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog^®.

Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times^® at https://www.baneclene.com/publications/.

Please visit our new and improved web site at https://www.baneclene.com.

The Bane-Clene^® Team.

Plus Sales

Many in our trade refer to these sales as "add-ons". Previously, a Bane's Blog® dealt with the subject of "What Makes Your Company Reputable?".

Plus Sales are an important source of additional revenue for a service company. However, many less than reputable companies rely on them because they "low-balled" the customer to gain a cleaning job. Without add-ons, a job is not profitable for them. So, they must incorporate "high pressure" tactics to make money on any job.

Reputable firms have a responsibility to supervise technicians and to make sure overly aggressive tactics are not used to gain extra sales. Most consumers look upon a well trained technician with the same respect they afford other professionals. Therefore, they look to them for advice and suggestions.

Once again, Plus Sales are an important aspect of profitability for a service company. Learning to sell to those that have a need and can afford the extras is as necessary as learning the fundamentals of good cleaning. The sophisticated service company judges its sales success on more than revenue produced by a crew. Customer satisfaction and loyalty are the most important.

Consumers appreciate hearing about additional services and products that are available to them. They do not appreciate being subjected to high pressure tactics. Approach your customers professionally and ethically about Plus Sales and selling them will be easy.

At the Bane-Clene® Institute, we cover these and other important topics. We also have a wealth of information available on line in the "For Professionals" section at www.baneclene.com.

Related information on the Bane-Clene web site:

• Bane-Clene Certification Training Program for Carpet Cleaning Technicians
• How to Price Your Carpet Cleaning Services
• Make More Money with Carpet and Upholstery Protectors!
• Sell The Sizzle
• Selling Aftermarket Carpet Protectors

Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog^®.

Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times^® at https://www.baneclene.com/publications/.

Please visit our new and improved web site at https://www.baneclene.com.

The Bane-Clene^® Team.

What Makes Your Company Reputable?

How many businesses would you considerable reputable today? Perhaps not many. Even the giants of industry can fall flat on their faces from time to time. When an article is published about a Company's failure in an area, their reputation immediately takes a hit. Even if at a later date the article is retracted or changed to show that in the end the Company was not at fault, it is too late. With the negative press they have received, their credibility has dropped, their reputation has become tarnished and in some cases the consumer has stopped buying their products or services.

Could this happen to the Carpet Cleaning Industry? Unfortunately, yes and we may be at fault, if we do not prepare for this. As an industry, we have the ammunition to combat the bait and switch artists, the low ball prices and others that use non-professional tactics trying to make a quick buck. That ammunition is education.

If you are educated on types of carpeting, types of cleaning processes and what different chemicals will do, you will have a leg up on your competition. This basic but yet highly important knowledge will assist in communicating with your customers and assure them they are dealing with a reputable company.

At the Bane-Clene® Institute, we cover these and other important topics. Also we have a wealth of information available on line in the "For Professionals" section at www.baneclene.com.

Most of the customers we service would never think of being a DIY; however, it is possible. Therefore, it must be considered as a potential hazard.

Related information on the Bane-Clene web site:

• Bait and Switch in the Carpet Cleaning Industry
• How to Price Your Carpet Cleaning Services
• Types of Carpet Fibers and Carpet Construction
• Comparison of Ways to Clean Carpet
• Do It Yourself Versus Professional Carpet Cleaning

Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog^®.

Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times^® at https://www.baneclene.com/publications/.

Please visit our new and improved web site at https://www.baneclene.com.

The Bane-Clene^® Team.

Technician Alert Warning!

Carpet cleaning technicians must be constantly on the alert for potential liability situations.

Commercials on television for rental equipment show a cleaning head working around the legs or bases of furniture. The consumer who sees this and uses this equipment may do the same thing. You have no way of knowing if a DIY (do-it-yourself) operator has preceded you and left permanent stains beneath a piece of furniture.

In the event you move a piece of furniture and see furniture stains, do not proceed to clean the area until you have informed the owner, customer or manager of the property about the stain. In addition to the verbal and visual notification, write the information on your invoice and ask your customer to sign the notification.

If they refuse to sign the notification, then it is best to not proceed with the job. They may or may not have known the stain was there; but if they are unwilling to sign, then you may be setting yourself up for a costly situation.

Most of the customers we service would never think of being a DIY, however, it is possible. Therefore, it must be considered as a potential hazard.

Related information on the Bane-Clene web site;

• Furniture Stain Spot & Stain Removal
• Upholstery Cleaning, Care and Protection

Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog^®.

Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times^® at https://www.baneclene.com/publications/.

Please visit our new and improved web site at https://www.baneclene.com.

The Bane-Clene^® Team.

Weeding Out Spots

Most of us have spent time pulling weeds in our gardens or flower beds. We obviously all know to be successful the weed must be pulled root and all. We all also know what happens if we don't, the weed grows back in a short period of time.

pots are like weeds, if not treated properly they come back. Spots are not always "spilled" onto carpets. Substances such as grease, oil and other foreign "gunk" are often tracked onto carpets without immediate detection. These foreign matters then attract dirt from additional foot traffic or airborne particles and form a spot on the carpet. During normal extractions and possible pre-spray, this spot is removed from the surface. But, unless the "root" or origin of the spot is treated with proper techniques and or spotters, the spot will "grow" back again.

Be prepared to inquire with your customer what may have caused the spots and if known, treat accordingly. If the origin is unknown, then give the spot extra treatment anyway. Products such as Citrus APS™, Saf-T-Solv™, Red Relief® and Stain Magicare just a few of the products available to keep that spot from "growing" back. The extra effort spent now may prevent a call back and an unhappy customer.

We offer a variety of Videos on spotting that are available for you to view on our web-site. The link is listed below.

Spotting video link is at https://www.baneclene.com/ProSpotGuide/Content.aspx?xps=NTEx

Related information on the Bane-Clene web site:

• Spot and Stain Removal General Information for the Consumer
• Spot and Stain Removal General Tips
• Spot and Stain Removal Guidelines
• Spot and Stain Removal Videos
• Spotting Agents
• Spotting Guide for Consumers
• Spotting Guide On-Line for Professional Cleaners and consumers
• Spotting Guides for Carpets and Rugs
• Why Do Spots Keep Coming Back After Cleaning Carpet?

Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog^®.

Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times^® at https://www.baneclene.com/publications/.

Please visit our new and improved web site at https://www.baneclene.com.

The Bane-Clene^® Team.

Do It Right The First Time

Most problems arise in the cleaning business from lack of adequate communication between yourself and your customer, rather than an inadequate cleaning job.

The customer should be alerted to the expected time of arrival and any changes to the schedule should be communicated immediately. Once on the job, proper time should be taken to evaluate the areas or materials to be cleaned. Any apparent problems, such as severe stains, tears, open seams, frayed material, etc. should be noted on the invoice and discussed with the customer. It is also a good idea to have the customer acknowledge any issues with their signature on the invoice before beginning. If not properly communicated at the time of the job, these can result in a call back or worse yet a cost to repair or replace the cleaned item or area. Likewise the cost to perform your service should be communicated and acknowledged.

Price your work to be profitable, not just busy. While volume is wonderful, it sometimes produces little or no profit. Your time, knowledge and training are the main commodities of your service business. If your price is to low you may be forced to cheapen your commodity or skimp on time. You do not want your service to be predicated by "the time on the job" rather than the "quality of your work".

Our companies will not have more time tomorrow to "do it again" than we have today to
"do it right the first time".

Related information on the Bane-Clene web site:

• About Complaints!
• Customer Service
• There Is No Substitute for Service

Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog^®.

Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times^® at https://www.baneclene.com/publications/.

Please visit our new and improved web site at https://www.baneclene.com.

The Bane-Clene^® Team.

Managing your Bank Balance

There may be times when you have made deposits and you are counting on a certain sum of money being available for bills, payrolls, etc. This is especially prevalent when a company is just starting out.

Even with today's quicker processing of checks, your bank may consider some of the checks you have deposited as "uncollected" funds. This may be because of the size of the check or where it is drawn.

It is a prudent practice to know your bank's policy on uncollected funds. This can prevent a problem of one your checks not being honored because not all the checks you deposited have cleared the other person's or company's account.

Some basic guidelines to practice are:

1. Call your bank or access your on line account to verify your available balance.
2. Make your deposits daily.
3. Pay bills one day a week and be consistent with that practice.
4. Pay by credit card if offered by your vendor, utility, phone company, etc.

One method to speed up your cash flow and avoid possible uncollected funds issues is to offer the availability of payment by credit card to your customers. While there is a fee involved, in the long run it will pay for itself. The fee is negotiable and usually if your credit card business is with your bank the fee will be less than with another financial institution. Your accounting professional can also assist you with this.

Related information on the Bane-Clene web site:

• Cash Flow

Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog^®.

Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times^® at https://www.baneclene.com/publications/.

Please visit our new and improved web site at https://www.baneclene.com.

The Bane-Clene^® Team.

Solving Problems

A simple plan for tackling problems is first off to learn all you can about the particular problem. Look at each part of the problem and see if individual segments can be dealt with one at a time instead of all at once.

Next, figure out how you are going to deal with the matter. You then need to plan a strategy and look down the road to picture the ramifications of the solution you choose. Be sure to explore all possible alternatives before putting your plan into motion.

Most importantly, after you have picked a path to follow, do it. You also want to get started as soon as possible. Procrastination will usually only make problems worse and the solution harder.

Related information on the Bane-Clene web site:

• Building Your Own Carpet Cleaning Business
• Four Characteristics of a Successful Person
• The 15 Factors of Success in Carpet Cleaning Business
• There is No Substitute for Service
• Tips for Increasing Your Business
• Twenty Steps to Success in the Carpet Cleaning Business
• What Makes a Company Successful?

Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog^®.

Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times^® at https://www.baneclene.com/publications/.

Please visit our new and improved web site at https://www.baneclene.com.

The Bane-Clene^® Team.

To Make Money

Why are you in business? This question has been posed to owners, Presidents and CEO's of all types and sizes of businesses. Many answered "To Make Money".

To many people, that may seem to be the proper response. However, without exception, the most successful companies were the ones in which the response was "to be the best in our industry". To make money means to base all decisions on accumulating cash. This is very shortsighted and usually dooms a company to failure.

To be the best means believing in yourself and in your employees to provide the energy and ideas to be Number One. You strive constantly to make sure everyone and everything about your company is First Class. You make a plan and everyone works hard and takes pride in what they do. They do this in order to make that plan come to fruition.

To be the best means that you do the things necessary to put yourself on top because those are the right things to do. You are confident that they will work because you want them to and you work with purpose.

When you are the best, you will make much more money and enjoy it much more and over a longer period of time. Much more than those who are in business simply "to make money".

Related information on the Bane-Clene web site:

• Building Your Own Carpet Cleaning Business
• Four Characteristics of a Successful Person
• The 15 Factors of Success in Carpet Cleaning Business
• There is no substitute for service
• Tips for Increasing Your Business
• Twenty Steps to Success in the Carpet Cleaning Business
• What makes a company successful

Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog^®.

Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times^® at https://www.baneclene.com/publications/.

Please visit our new and improved web site at https://www.baneclene.com.

The Bane-Clene^® Team.

Cash Flow

There are warning signs of inadequate cash flow. Here are a few.

• Your debt service is uncomfortable (higher than what allows easy payment of your bills).
• When you pay your bills you are unable to take advantage of early payment discounts or in the case of credit cards, entire balances are not paid in full.
• Your average collection of your receivables are slower than anticipated, causing a problem.
• You have too little in cash reserves and you need to borrow to keep your bills current.

Ask your CPA to help you balance your cash flow to be compatible with your amount of business.

A regular part of your financial statement from your CPA should track your cash flow and give you monthly or quarterly reports of its positive or negative aspect.

Related information on the Bane-Clene web site:

• Before You Finance
• Cash Flow
• Leasing Used & New Equipment

Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog^®.

Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times^® at https://www.baneclene.com/publications/.

Please visit our new and improved web site at https://www.baneclene.com.

The Bane-Clene^® Team.

ALLERGIES

We occasionally receive calls from Bane-Clene^® Systems service customers and also from the owners of Bane-Clene^® Equipment. These calls relate to the use of Bane-Clene® chemicals and their possible effects on allergy sufferers. We always will ask the basic chemicals and or compounds they have questions about. In all but a few instances none of our products might cause a problem. One allergist comments that "many people are allergic to something but luckily never come in contact with it". He adds that his patients "are better off with a clean carpet that has all the dust and pollen removed".

However, certain precautions should be followed. Here are some Do's and Do Not's when cleaning in a home where a person with allergies resides:

Do Not: use perfumes, solvents, deodorizers, proteolytic enzymes or residual protectors.

Do Not: spray or mist anything into the air with a sprayer or atomizer.

Do: follow cleaning with a clear water rinse. Advise the customer that the allergic person should avoid contact with the cleaned fibers until thoroughly dry. Increase the ventilation to speed the drying process.

Cleaning with Bane-Clene products removes the sources of allergy problems (which include dust mites, dirt, pollen, pollutants, dander, etc.) for most people who suffer from allergies. Other processes may actually exacerbate the allergy conditions because of the chemical residues and soil they leave behind.

Related information on the Bane-Clene web site:

• Allergies in Carpet, Rug and Mattress Cleaning
• Allergy Relief Treatment Products
• Bane-Clene Carpet Cleaning Training School
• Truckmount Carpet Cleaning Equipment from Bane-Clene

Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog^®.

Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times^® at http://www.baneclene.com/publications/.

Please visit our new and improved web site at www.baneclene.com.

The Bane-Clene^® Team.

Customers Need To Know

A service is the most difficult commodity to sell and offers many challenges. Since a service is not produced until the sale, there is nothing tangible to show your prospect.

Establishing a platform of trust is the most important factor in making the sale. Be sure to guarantee there will be no charge unless the customer is completely satisfied. Also, that you will follow up if there are any questions or concerns.

Having background material such as brochures, testimonials and a resume of your experience builds credibility. Be yourself and sell with sincerity, honesty and integrity.

If a potential customer questions your price, be prepared to defend it. Explain that there are certain costs that need to be factored into establishing your charges. State that when you quote a price, it is complete. There are no hidden charges, exclusions or qualifying conditions that many "bait and switch" cleaners employ after a job has been quoted. This will help combat what they may have seen in the Yellow Pages, a mailer or newspaper or Internet ad.

Even though you present a thoughtful, sincere and professional presentation, some consumers will ultimately shop around for the cheapest price. A competitor that embellishes or distorts the truth may gain a customer one time. But the Company which "tells the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth" will ultimately win in the long haul. Sincerity above "salesmanship" and false promises will build your service Company and your reputation. This leads to repeat and referred customers.

Do not promise more than you can deliver.

Related information on the Bane-Clene web site:

• Advertising the Bane-Clene Way
• Bane-Clene Carpet Cleaning Training School
• Bait and Switch in Carpet Cleaning Businesses
• Bane-Clene Brochures
• Bane-Clene Mailers
• Building Your Own Carpet Cleaning Business
• Four Characteristics of a Successful Person?
• There is No Substitute for Service
• Twenty Steps to Success
• What Makes a Company Successful?
• Yellow Pages

Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog^®.

Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times^® at http://www.baneclene.com/publications/.

Please visit our new and improved web site at www.baneclene.com.

The Bane-Clene^® Team.

Show Respect

Whether taking an order for service or answering a complaint, show respect to the caller. Be polite with your responses using "Please" and "Thank You" and other appropriate words and phrases.

In fact, if handled properly, you may be able to turn a complaint into a positive event. Quoting company rules doesn't go over very well with a customer. Everyone knows there are rules. However you want to relay them, if necessary in a calm and polite voice.

Also, using technical jargon when talking to a customer may not be wise. If appropriate or needed, certainly do so. However, most consumers do not wish to become an expert in the cleaning field. Conversely, do not presume the customer is naive about the business. If the customer has had cleaning by another firm, they may ask relevant questions when comparing your firm to others. Be prepared to provide as much detail as warranted.

They may be Hot Water Extraction (HWE) method to others, or your method to a completely different type of cleaning. They may inquire about Carpet Protectors, Deodorizing or Pet Stain Removal. Whatever the question, always be prepared to give professional, practical and if needed technical answers.

Listening is the key to success in customer relations. But, let's say all the potential customer is asking is "how much you charge" and "when can you do it". You may be dealing with a "price shopper". While you want to answer those questions, it is possible to ask some questions of your own that allows you a chance to sell your Company. For example, you certainly want to inquire if you have cleaned for them before. Or do they require a certain day of the week or time of day? This gives you an opportunity to establish a dialogue. If you have been able to establish that dialogue, then you should mention your years in business, trade associations or business groups with which you may maintain memberships. Schools, seminars or other industry education opportunities. All of the aforementioned separate you from your competitors. With that done, you have a chance to turn that "price shopper" into a customer.

Related information on the Bane-Clene web site:

• Bane-Clene Carpet Cleaning Training School
• Carpet Protectors
• Comparison of Carpet Cleaning Methods
• Hot Water Extraction
• Odor and Pest Control
• Pet Odor and Stain Removal

Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog^®.

Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times^® at http://www.baneclene.com/publications/.

Please visit our new and improved web site at www.baneclene.com.

The Bane-Clene^® Team.