2024 Relfection

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"Reflecting on 2024: growth, challenges, and exciting changes in life, business, and the cleaning industry."

Reflecting on 2024

2024 has been quite a ride—but then again, my life is never dull! Sometimes it feels like I’ve lived at least three lifetimes in this one body.

Despite its challenges, I managed to sneak in three vacations this year, which was a much-needed recharge. However, there were a few goals I didn’t meet, and I’m still debating whether to carry them into 2025. Perhaps subconsciously, they’re just not priorities anymore. (It’s worth noting that I set 20-28 new goals each year, so there’s bound to be some adjustments!)

Observations from the Cleaning Industry

Speaking to thousands of cleaning business owners annually—both free and paid—has given me unique insights. In 2024, the cleaning customer landscape shifted dramatically. Across the U.S., pricing became a hot-button issue. Customers seemed to expect premium services on tight budgets, and I heard countless variations of, “I can’t believe that’s what you charge.”

I’m hopeful that 2025 brings some stabilization as inflation levels out. Let’s all cross our fingers for more reasonable grocery prices, too!

Maid-Broker.com Updates

This year was unusual for my cleaning business, Maid-Broker. Only two clients signed up for weekly service—a massive drop from our typical 40+ annual sign-ons. Thankfully, they were larger accounts, so that helped balance things out.

Here’s a snapshot of our year:

  • Bids: We gave out 782 formal bids and closed 156, equating to a 20% close rate (well below our usual 40-50%). For comparison, 2023 saw a 43% close rate out of 997 bids.
  • Phone Calls: We handled 13,000 calls this year, as we still don’t offer online purchasing. Making this feature available is a 2025 goal—yes, I know it should have happened ages ago! ( I am going to blame my web guy for being non responsive. I have moved to another person to help me manage my website so I will be able to be more pro-active) 

Market Trends

  1. Short-Term and Mid-Term Rentals: These markets were buzzing in 2024. I cherry-picked a few STR clients while passing others along to local peers. Fingers crossed as I navigate this space again after some time away.
  2. Post-Construction Cleaning: This segment was white-hot, driven by the 4,000+ homes in various stages of construction in my area. It’s a lucrative niche—just be sure to check insurance requirements before signing contracts with large builders.
  3. Services I Passed On: Carpet cleaning and window washing didn’t make the cut due to high equipment costs and skyrocketing insurance rates.
  4. Swedish Death Cleaning: I completed six of these fascinating jobs, earning $2,500-$4,000 each.
  5. Feng Shui Services: I worked on 14 homes this year, combining decluttering and furniture arrangement for better flow and energy. Each project took over a week and was incredibly rewarding. I follow Peg Donahue’s methodology (more on her work here: Peg Donahue).

Giving Back

In 2024, I personally cleaned 12 homes for free to support my local community. These experiences also provided valuable research for an upcoming project—stay tuned!

Podcast Milestones: Cleaning Business Life

This year, Cleaning Business Life hit new heights:

  • A listener brought us on a 6-week round trip during their long-distance move—talk about dedication!
  • We’re approaching our 100th episode milestone.
  • Jamie graciously stepped in as co-host after Kim’s summer departure—welcome, Jamie!
  • Plans for 2025 include bonus episodes and several guest appearances. Know someone we should feature? Email us at cleaningbusinesslife@gmail.com.

Klean Freaks University

This year, KFU expanded its offerings to include a membership program aimed at fostering community and providing more direct access to me. Don’t worry, I’ll still be active in the Facebook groups, but this is a way to help more of you grow your businesses.

Congratulations to Marlena and Tim, the winners of the SSPCBA giveaway! Looking forward to connecting with them in the new year.

By the Numbers

  • Social Media: I posted 6,000+ times (most on Facebook) and shared 3,650 dog posts. I also published over 300 long-form posts—a must for the current algorithm.
  • Live Videos: I went live 100+ times.
  • 1:1 Coaching: Spent over 100 hours working directly with cleaning business owners.
  • Speaking Engagements: Spoke twice locally to help aspiring entrepreneurs decide if cleaning is their calling.
  • Business Chats: Held over 600 conversations with cleaning business owners. If you’ve purchased from me, send a screenshot for a free 15-minute chat (Wednesdays only). Schedule here.

Missed Goals

  1. YouTube Channel: I didn’t upload the last 25 video podcast episodes or hit my 1,000-subscriber goal (currently at 978—subscribe here).
  2. Organization: Paper clutter remains a challenge. I donated to thrift stores 32 times and shredded 15 boxes, but there’s more to tackle.
  3. Home Purge: Still a work in progress—maybe 2025 is the year?
  4. Fitness Goals: I didn’t achieve all my weight loss or daily exercise goals but made a strong start.

Looking Ahead to 2025

This year has been a whirlwind of lessons, growth, and resilience. While some goals remain unfinished, the accomplishments and insights far outweigh the setbacks. Here’s to an even brighter, more productive 2025!

Best,

Shannon Miller

Cleaning Business Coach

Klean Freaks University

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