Ron and other operators

[Jonathan Ellis]

How long did it take you guys that do the office side and do not wash anymore to come out of washing. This is assuming that you started the company and built business up enough to stop washing yourself

 

[The Cleaner]

I had stepped off about 6 years ago and then had to step back in, due to unscrupulous employees. Then tried it again a few years ago but it did not work out.

So for me it will be awhile before i can be replaced, but i have run my buisness with 3 guy's for a long time and just drive and babysit and make sure things are getting done properly.

 

[Jonathan Ellis]

It took me about 3 years to step out, but due to lack of quality help, I have had to get back in.

 

[The Cleaner]

It took me about 3 years to step out, but due to lack of quality help, I have had to get back in.

If you were able to step off in 3 years i would say that was great. Normally it takes the average new business at least 5 years to grow into it's own.

 

[Scott Stone]

I have not been able to do that yet. I have stepped back but not out. I can afford it, I just cannot find the help I need to make it happen, the right way.

 

[Jim@Garagecleaning]

I do not handle the wand or surface cleaners at all. I am at 70% of the jobs except drive thru's of which I do not attend, but garages I am there, just not pushing the surface cleaner. Always looking ahead for obstacles in the way of the cleaning... assessing the work load, anticipating the workers needs.

 

[copgib]

I for one will never step out unless it is to retire from Pressure Washing. With 2-pensions coming in each month and wife working, I take as many jobs as I can handle and still make sure I have time for golfing and fishing once a week. I have had other businesses where I had employees and I know how that can be a big pain in the butt, never again. I like the pace I have set for myself and although I may not expand my business like others, it suits me well. Best of luck growing in your businesses. Hugh

 

[BUNN]

I have not been able to do that yet. I have stepped back but not out. I can afford it, I just cannot find the help I need to make it happen, the right way.

That is exactly the same issue I have had.

 

[Henry Bockman]

I started Henry's Housework in 1989. After 6 years I left the field work, I go in and out now just to keep track of how my guys are doing but mostly I work in the office or hang out with my wife.

This year I opened another company and I've been hands on with a lot of the jobs but they are each very special and technical and were charging top dollar so I WANT to be there for those.

For Henry's Housework, I haven't been one one of those jobs for probably 5 years or more unless there was a problem and thats pretty rare.

 

[Jonathan Ellis]

I would still like to hear more, I appreciate the reponses from each of you.

Yes we were very fortunate, however, I stayed away for about a year and a half. I am going back into it full time. We are looking to expand the company to great lengths.

 

[mbryan]

It took my old man about 5 years to get "off the scraper". 25 years later we have more guys than we have work for. Its a fine line, keep a close eye on your work to worker ratio.