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How the rise in working from home has changed domestic cleaning

⏱️ 36:38 🎀 Louise Trehearn, Diane Greenwood
AUDIO EPISODE
How the rise in working from home has changed domestic cleaning
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Chapters

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  • 0:00
    Working From Home's Impact
    Louise and Diane introduce the topic of how the rise in working from home since COVID has dramatically changed the cleaning business.
  • 4:44
    Past vs. Present Home Presence
    Diane reflects on the stark contrast between customer presence in homes 10-15 years ago and today, highlighting new challenges like working around video calls.
  • 6:33
    Scheduling Complexities
    The hosts discuss how working from home creates significant scheduling challenges, with customers demanding specific time slots and adjustments for calls.
  • 15:56
    Access and Alarm Management
    Challenges related to property access, key management, and remotely unsetting alarms are discussed, often leading to waiting times and additional costs.
  • 20:51
    Parking Permit Issues
    A new problem arises with digital parking permit schemes that require homeowner interaction, complicating logistics for cleaners.
  • 28:18
    Cleaner-Customer Interaction
    The episode delves into the increased need for customer service skills among cleaners, who now interact more frequently with clients working from home.
  • 45:26
    Boundary Setting with Clients
    The importance of setting clear boundaries between cleaners and clients is discussed, as interactions become more common and sometimes awkward.
  • 55:23
    Surveillance and Accountability
    The hosts note the increased surveillance of cleaners due to clients being home, leading to greater accountability for actions and even personal habits like listening to podcasts.
  • 1:11:58
    New Policies for Client Behavior
    Louise and Diane discuss the need to develop new policies regarding client behavior during cleaning appointments, such as ensuring cleaner privacy and safety.
  • 1:22:05
    DCBN Guidance and Training
    The episode concludes with a mention of upcoming training courses and the intention to develop new guidance documents for cleaning business owners within the DCBN group.

Speakers

L
Louise Trehearn
Host
D
Diane Greenwood
Host

Key Takeaways

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Implement tiered pricing for scheduling: Offer standard time slots at a base rate and charge more for specific, precise appointment times to manage demand and cover logistical costs.

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Develop a clear key and alarm management protocol: Create a system for secure key drop-offs or remote alarm deactivation, and have a strict policy for charging waiting time due to client-related access delays.

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Proactively address parking challenges: Stay informed about local parking regulations and permit systems. Implement a policy for handling and charging clients for parking tickets if their permit system fails.

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Invest in customer service training for all staff: As client interaction increases, ensure cleaners are trained in professional communication, boundary setting, and handling sensitive situations without compromising their well-being.

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Create a 'Client Behavior Policy': Develop a clear document outlining expected client behavior during cleaning, including guidelines on privacy, space for cleaners, and safety protocols for movement within the home while cleaning is underway.

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Utilize communication software: Employ apps or systems that facilitate efficient communication of arrival times, team members, and any changes, reducing the administrative burden on the business owner and increasing client satisfaction.

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Foster a culture of resilience among staff: Provide support and reassurance to cleaners who encounter challenging client interactions, helping them reframe negative experiences and maintain professionalism.

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