Many businesses are considered part of the service industry. Child care, cleaning, and catering are a few areas where individuals can become successful as entrepreneurs. Any type of start-up company will require knowledge of the field and dedication. The home care business can be rewarding if you plan right and work hard. Home care services in Canada and the USA are growing at an alarming rate with franchises and private firms. With the right mindset and knowledge, you could become part of this profitable game.
Here are some suggestions for getting off on the right foot in Home Care.
Paper and Legalities First
Licensing, registration, accreditation, and permits are usually required in most states for starting a home care business. There are different requirements per state and you will also be responsible to file for a FEIN with the federal government to create a business. Different licensing may be needed according to whether your company is medical or non-medical.
Set up a Tried and True System
Establish a system and stick to it. All caretakers and office personnel need to know and understand what their role in the company is and how to follow the rules. It is important to be unyielding to policies set forth. An employee handbook should be drawn up with subjects like dress, tardiness, hours available, request for time off, and ramifications if rules are not followed. Training courses should be required hands-on to know the skills of each employee.
Putting a Puzzle Together
Dispatching/scheduling is a skill that needs to be sought after. While cheery, attentive office help is an asset, finding the perfect individual for scheduling can be a difficult position for many. Clients have certain needs and specific time schedules to keep. Matching up the right caretaker with the proper hours and role can be a bit of a challenge. Keep your eye open for individuals that love organizing, balancing paperwork, and keeping important notes on the personalities, attitudes, and availability of workers.
Never Stop Following up
Follow-up on performance is a must in the service industry. There is not as much forgiveness granted when it comes to providing time as opposed to products. A good customer service department is necessary for keeping clients satisfied. Open communication and addressing problems early on can save misunderstandings and confusion later. For instance, if a client is demanding in household chores, encourage caretakers to discuss with customer service. Both parties need to have a clear knowledge of expectations.
Marketing and Sales Strategies
As soon as your home care business has customers, do not back off of your marketing plan. This is how your brand in the industry keeps its recognition and reputation. Your company is on its way to forming a presence in the community and every phone call and every interaction with potential and existing clients can turn into a marketing advantage.
Place Credit where Credit is Due
Treat your caregivers like they are gold. They are the meat of the company and represent what you stand for. When a client gushes about a great home care service, it is their employee that they are referring to. Employees that are treated well by their employer cannot help but mention positive comments to clients, friends, and family. Make their job as enjoyable as possible and provide benefits when possible.
Plan for the Worst, Hope for the Best
Expect problems to occur and prepare as well as possible. Things break, people get sick and money gets tight. Try to keep at least 10% of your sales in a rainy day fund. Keep a steady list of prospective employees ready to be interviewed. Make sure you have a sufficient insurance policy to cover any damages that could be caused by your caretaker on a client's property.
There are no shortcuts to becoming a reputable home care service. Many franchises may lead you to believe there will never be the freedom to be your own boss and to experiment with methods that could be an improvement. The Home Care industry is still young and an excellent way to plan a dream of becoming a business owner.
Author Bio: McKenzie Jones
McKenzie is your typical Midwestern gal. When she is not writing or reading, she can be found training for her next half-marathon, baking something sweet, playing her guitar, or cuddled up with her golden retriever, Cooper. She loves watching football, fall weather, and long road trips
