A reader asks: "I am struggling with performance issues at a site that is new to me. We have had above average turnover in both supervision and front line employees due to a very tight budget as well as declining morale. Do you have any suggestions?"

This series will try to focus on analyzing the current situation and making suggestions for improvement over a period of time. In a prior article we listed some of the noted deficiencies and now suggest corrective actions to deal with them:

1. Management needs to determine why this break down occurred in the first place and take corrective steps to keep it from happening again. It appears to be part of the corporate culture that tends to manage by complaint rather than being proactive in dealing with accounts.

2. They might consider identifying qualified, experienced staff to function as roving Quality Control/Trainers who can not only note deficiencies early on but also develop training sessions to correct the work for better outcomes.

3. Another place to start is the janitorial office/storage area as well as the closets. None would pass inspection at this time and communicate an unprofessional image to workers as well at the customer.

4. Of course, workers should be in uniform (at least a logo type shirt with matching dark trousers or skirts), updated ID badges, appropriate safety shoes (no sandals) and acceptable hygiene.

5. One person should be assigned the task of inspecting and maintaining not only the major equipment such as vacuum cleaners, floor machines, etc. but also check on stocking of chemicals and supplies. This should include everything from spray bottles to cloths to bag filters.

We will conclude our series in the next article.

Your comments and questions are important. I hope to hear from you soon. Until then, keep it clean...

Mickey Crowe has been involved in the industry for over 35 years. He is a trainer, speaker and consultant. You can reach Mickey at 678-314-2171 or CTCG50@comcast.net.


posted on 6/18/2015