Why Collaboration Wins in Commercial Cleaning

John F. Kennedy once said, “A rising tide lifts all boats.” His comment suggested that investing in economic development can benefit everyone who participates in the economy. In my experience, building service contractors have taken note and are practicing what he preached. 

This industry is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. It’s not uncommon to encounter lifelong friends who are also local competitors, or a cleaning business powerhouse who shares tips to success with other owners. There’s a reason people join the commercial cleaning industry and never leave. It’s a close-knit community full of entrepreneurs who succeed by helping others do the same.  

This was on display at the Building Service Contractors Association International’s (BSCAI) Contracting Success Conference last November, and it will be emphasized again at our very own Clean Buildings Conference this March in Baltimore. Not only will BSCs share their tips to business success during education sessions, but they’ll also be available to exchange ideas through countless networking opportunities throughout the event.  

I’ll be there, too, to interact with readers. These in-person opportunities to network are my favorite parts of the job, so please come say hello, ask questions, or share why you think you should be featured in Contracting Profits. We are always looking for new stories to tell and I welcome the opportunity to get to know more readers. 

For example, at one of my early industry events, I had the pleasure to dine with a group of BSCs, one of which was Terry Woodley. It was then that I learned about the amazing history of Woodley Building Maintenance, including a strategic partnership with another well-known BSC, Skip Marsden of Marsden Services. That conversation resulted in the Sept/Oct 2023 cover story.  

In this issue, we are profiling another stand-out BSC with a personal story that proved fascinating at every turn. We met Philippe Mack at another industry event and were immediately enamored with his path to success. Mack entered the industry like many before him, rich with a family legacy to uphold, but his path would be a unique one that spanned various roles, companies and even some international travel. We immediately knew his story was one other BSCs could learn from, and we’re honored he was willing to share his experiences. 

Philippe’s and Terry’s are only two of the many personal stories Contracting Profits has told to help other BSCs evolve and grow. I encourage you to reach out and share your story. If we work together and help one another to raise the tide, we can all move forward and thrive.  

Corinne Zudonyi is the Editor-in-Chief of Contracting Profits and has been in the cleaning industry for 17 years. She also oversees CleanLink.com, Facility Cleaning Decisions magazine and Sanitary Maintenance magazine.