terrymny

terrym

New member
Hi all. I'm a newbie here and was hopeful to attain some info. in regards to setting up a Hood and Duct cleaning business here in NY. I live approximately 20 minutes outside NYC and from the research I have done there seems to be a pretty good oppurtunity for this service.

The problem is that I have "0" experience and have been scouring the internet in regards to becoming certified and learning the proper techniques required. I currently work in the restaurant business in another capacity so I have 1 foot in the door already as far some trust with possible customers.

If you all could recommend the best route for me to take at this point as far as certification where I can get the biggest bang for my buck it would be greatly appreciated. I'd like to start asap but could use some simple direction from professionals as yourselves.
 
Welcome to this bb. First off we have a search menu on the window bar. Simply ask a question and the program will give you all related posts. When you spend a couple of hour you will come up with related and specific questions of your concerns.

I would visit local dealers that sell pressure washers and establish a contact person. Because this issue comes down to how much you are willing to invest in your company. Talk with your insurance company regarding liability and so on. Simply, you must establish a education baseline.

Feel free to call me at anytime regarding your concerns or issues
 
terrym

Thanks David. I'll figure my way around here sooner or later. I'm learning quite a bit just reading through all the posts here but obviously have a long way to go.
 
I am in central NJ.Maybe we can work something out.We are about i hr from you.Give me a call.20 years in the biz here.
 
contact

I appreciate that John. When is a good time to call?
 
Terrence...you're starting off the same way I did, or at least pretty close. I was a salesman for a company that sold restaurant supplies so I had tons of contacts right off the bat, and to tell you the truth, that is probably why I've been pretty successful up to this point.

Definetly hook up with John Zema...somebody like that, that has been in business for that long can set you in the right direction real quick. Good luck and look forward to your success....:)
 
newbie

Thanks Anthony. I hope your right about the fact that working in the industry will help out. Did you have any problems getting those customers to give you a shot once you were certified or did you have prior experience?

Who would you recommend I take the certification with and why. I know I'm asking alot but not sure where I will benefit most or what certification carries more weight now or in the future.

Thanks again.
 
Take your time it answer will come to after the first week of OJT.
 
At this point Terry, the certification mean absolutely nothing to people. That doesn't mean that I think they are useless. I think the training that you get from the schools is critical for your success, especially having no experience. Before I started my business, I didn't even know that kitchen exhausts had to be cleaned. I asked 55 of my customers (with my former company) who was cleaning theirs and 52 of them said "Why do you know somebody?" So basically all but 3 were instant customers for my new business. 2 of the 3 that didn't sign on right away have since became my customers because of my wonderful take no prisoners, don't take no for an answer kinda sells techniques...hahah..just kidding.

If you can get some training from an experienced pro around you, I would say do that first and see if it's something that you want to dedicate you life to. If you do, then ask me about schools...:D
 
newbie

Thanks guys. I'll definately hook up with someone willing to have me for a week or so. John Zema is the closest guy I've posted to and I'm far enough not to be any concern for him...or pretty much anyone else at this point.

I understand that this is a pretty dirty job and from what I gather I need to find out just how hard and dirty it is before investing in a school. I'll be 39 in May but I'm in great shape and think I got quite a few good years in me. I'm definately not afraid of hard work or getting dirty and I'm pretty thorough in any type of job I take on. I'm hopeful these traits will translate into something successfull in my next step in life.
 
Keep this in mind in working with John-he can be a big asset in the local trade. I work with a guy in my local area-I would rather cut my arm off rather take one of his accounts-he would do the same. No - I would keep my arm, but you know what I mean. It can be a big plus for both of you-just keep this in mind.
 
Terry call anytime.
 
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