Growing up, there were always questions in school asking what students wanted to be when they grew up.  It is unlikely that any budding young students would have answered they wanted to find work in the house cleaning industry.  However, given the rough economic climate of job unemployment, a lot of people are turning to cleaning jobs as a way to make part time or full time income.

When people’s backs are against the wall, they can either whither and feel sorry for themselves or they can show a little resilience.  For those who have suffered downsizing in their organizations, some have proven that they are made of sterner stuff than they realized.  The key to picking yourself up off the ground is to take whatever job opportunities are given to you.  There is no such thing as being too proud when you need to put a roof over your head and food on the table.  Also, being busy and just working gives you the chance to network and grow with a wealth of new experiences.

As mentioned, finding house cleaning jobs may not be the ideal situation but it does offer income to tie things over.  Also, for those truly enterprising, they can also expand a temporary job into something more.  In 2008, the cleaning industry was worth 128 billion dollars.  There are lots of people who need cleaning help and there is money to be made for small home businesses.  With the right connections, one can branch out in clean up services for landlords getting their apartments ready, office cleaning, special events cleaning, and the options are endless.  It all depends on what type of need you see that you can fulfill.  Perhaps you can offer special green cleaning services for the environmentally sensitive clients?

There is a saying that when one door closes, another door opens.  In most cases, it’s about the courage to walk through that door and see what’s on the horizon.

Beginning a commercial office cleaning business may be an ideal solution for those currently unemployed. Not only can you start it for very little money, but also it can give you the flexibility of working hours of your own choosing. This is particularly important for women with young children. There is also something very nice about being your own boss.

Cleaning supplies are easy to come by and it will generally cost you less than $100 to get started. Many offices may already have their own supplies on hand, including a vacuum cleaner. In addition, you can guarantee at least one paycheck everyday, depending on how many clients you line up.

To find clients, look in your local phone books for businesses in your area. They do not have to be big complexes. Small office buildings and those situated in storefronts can actually provide you with more opportunities since it is unlikely that they already utilize cleaning services. Keep in mind, too, that many churches and synagogues have had to cut back on their expenses and may be willing to hire you to work part time, rather than have a sexton or janitor on staff. Daycare centers and nursery schools are another source of possible employment. Do not be afraid to make phone calls, or hand out flyers. Talk to friends and neighbors and let them know you are starting an office cleaning service. They may be able to provide you with valuable leads or recommendations. In addition, this can also be a way to find additional help and work crews as your business grows.

Ambitious people can also combine home cleaning services with their office maintenance businesses. It all depends on how much of an entrepreneur you are. Again, this can either be a sideline to earn extra money, or a full time job.