I am starting a cleaning business in CT, can you help me ?

I began cleaning professionaly a month ago. I don't have all that experience, but I know I do a good job because I had helped other people clean and know what to do. The point is: I would like to know what takes people to hire a cleaning service. I've given some estimates, and believe me, the prices are low and I always negotiate it...even though people don't call me back. I have references, but not a lot, and I am the one who cleans it ( with a helper sometimes). In 8 estimates I gave, I got only 3 jobs... What am I doing wrong?

Ah! People don't call back after the appointment...it means they don't even give it a try!

You're probably not doing anything wrong. It just takes time to build any type of business. You might ask the people you do clean for to pass your business card on to some of their friends. Ask for some feedback at a place that did not hire you. Ask them what they are looking for and maybe ask them if you could be hired on a trial basis. Maybe offer a big discount for that first cleaning so they have some incentive to go with your offer. Let them know you guarantee your work and you'll come back if they find something isn't up to their standard. It takes persistence and lots of word of mouth referrals. Good luck!

Someone I know cleans the first time free. Than if they give a referal that works out they give them another free time. I know it sounds like it won't work but she has more people wanting her than she can take care of.

always clean everything where you don't do and you don't think they'll see it is where they see it

honestly...it would be great if you can provide a few freebies.but I doubt you are in a postion where this is feasible.you have to be patient,first of all keep in mind that the economy sucks right now and alot of people are holding on to their cash,and also keep this *always *in mind...if you ask customers what happened to their ex-housekeeper...many will say : they stole from them....aint that a bummer?so you have to do everything you can to earn their 100% trust..if you can do that and if you are poilte and do a great job...word of mouth will get you all the work you need.But as I say it will take time as people cant refer you to their friends until they are sure of you.and be careful with hiring family and friends unless you Know they will be good workers,customer service is very important,always be very friendly,polite and on time!good luck.....