Finding and keeping great employees is one of the biggest challenges in the professional cleaning industry. A recent survey by Cleaning & Maintenance Management magazine found that 50% of cleaning companies consider recruitment and retention a significant challenge, and 76% say hiring qualified workers is their top labor concern. 

With labor shortages and high turnover rates, it’s more important than ever to have a solid strategy for attracting, training, and retaining top talent. Here are five ways to build and maintain a strong cleaning team.

Competitive wages are essential, but they’re only part of the equation. To attract and retain top talent, highlight your full range of benefits, such as:

• Subsidized healthcare to help ease the financial burden of medical costs
• Pension match to support long-term financial security
• Family-friendly policies like paid parental leave, childcare support, or flexible schedules

Employees want to feel valued beyond just their paycheck. A strong total compensation package can attract qualified candidates and enhance job satisfaction and loyalty, leading to reduced turnover rates. Regularly reviewing and updating compensation structures to align with industry standards further reinforces employee commitment and retention.

And don’t be shy about sharing perks you offer your team on social media or in job ads. By promoting the overall benefits you provide, you make your company more attractive in a competitive labor market.

A well-trained employee is more productive, more confident, and more likely to stay. Invest in structured training programs that cover: 

• Proper cleaning techniques for different environments 
• Safety protocols and handling of cleaning chemicals
• Use of modern cleaning equipment for efficiency and effectiveness

Ongoing training helps employees feel supported and engaged, reducing turnover and improving overall service quality. Regular performance reviews and clear communication during training about the impact of employees' work can further strengthen their connection to your company and clients.

One of the main reasons employees leave is a lack of career progression. Show your team that they have a future with your company by:

• Demonstrating clear career paths from entry-level roles to management
• Providing mentorship and leadership training
• Encouraging skill development with certifications and specialized training

A study by the Pew Research Center found that 57% of workers who left their jobs cited feeling disrespected as a major or minor reason for their departure. By taking an interest in the career path of your team members, you are showing that you respect them and want them to grow. When employees see room for growth, they’re more likely to stay and invest in your company’s success.  

Your best employees can help you find your next great hire. Referral programs incentivize your current staff to bring in qualified candidates by offering bonuses or rewards for successful hires.

• Encourages employees to recommend people they trust
• Reduces recruitment costs and shortens hiring time 
• Creates a team of workers who already have a connection and work well together

Implementing a referral program doesn’t have to be complicated. Just be sure that there is a clear structure to the program and communicate it regularly. Offer incentives (cash bonuses, gift cards, extra paid leave, etc.), outline specific job openings, and recognize employees who refer successful hires.

Engaging employees in the process strengthens workplace morale and recruitment success.

Cleaning can be physically demanding, leading to burnout and injuries. Investing in ergonomic, user-friendly equipment helps:

• Reduce strain and injuries, leading to fewer sick days
• Improve productivity by making tasks easier and faster
• Show employees that their well-being matters, increasing job satisfaction

The good news is that the number of workplace injuries are decreasing. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2023, private industry employers reported 2.6 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses, a decrease of 8.4% from the previous year. Workplace injury rates have decreased by 75% since 1972, with improved ergonomic practices playing a significant role in this reduction. This decline is partly attributed to improved ergonomic practices, which help prevent musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and related injuries. 

And while we’ve come a long way, we still have a long way to go. Focusing on the user’s needs will help. For example, lightweight vacuums, cleaning machines with adjustable seats and controls to accommodate different sizes, and equipment with robust filtration can make a huge difference in reducing injuries and improving efficiency.