Looking to bring a new window cleaner on board and get them up to speed? Here are 5 steps to help the hiring to be successful.

1. Introduction to equipment and safety protocols: The first step in training newly hired window cleaners is to introduce them to the equipment and tools they will be using, as well as the safety protocols that must be followed. This includes equipment such as squeegees, scrubbers, scrapers, abrasives, poles, water fed systems, ladders, ropes, harnesses, and cleaning solutions.

2. Hands-on demonstration: Provide a hands-on demonstration of the proper techniques for cleaning windows, including how to reach difficult areas, use the equipment, and apply cleaning solutions. Even if the candidate states they have experience cleaning windows, demonstrate the techniques and tools that your company uses. Remember that often, new candidates want to impress and will overstate their experiences or abilities. It’s nothing personal, that just seems to be something that happens during the on boarding process everywhere! Demonstrate yourself or have one of your crew leaders put on a show. This will help the new person to know that they have a lot to learn, even if they do not want to admit it out loud!

3. Practice exercises: Provide opportunities for the trainee to practice the techniques they have learned, either on a simulated window or on a real window that is at hand height. This allows them to get a feel for the equipment and techniques, and to build confidence in their abilities. Even if they have experience, your approved tools might vary slightly from what they have used in the past. Cover the basics like how to extend a pole, stack ladders, store items in the vehicle, put on shoe covers, and even how to speak with customers.

4. Review of safety protocols: It is important to continually emphasize the importance of safety, and to review the safety protocols on a regular basis. This can be done through role-playing exercises, safety drills, and regular safety meetings. Be up front about what chemicals that are regularly used at the jobsites and where to find SDS sheets. Communicate early and often that safety is a bigger concern than providing service. Team members will understand that this means you are concerned about their overall safety and health.

5. Ongoing training: Provide ongoing training and opportunities for growth and development. This can include advanced techniques for cleaning, learning how to use new equipment, and understanding the latest industry standards and best practices. Develop and offer intentional opportunities for “feedback loops”. Make it a regular event to have conversations and listen for points of concern and frustration. Looking for a resource to help you with this? Consider the International Window Cleaning Association. Check out our blog post about what the IWCA has meant to the professional window cleaning industry here. As a window cleaning professional, there are many tips, skills and “secrets” that you have learned over the years. These are difficult to teach so listen for opportunities to share your knowledge of the industry and best practices.

In conclusion, training newly hired window cleaners is an exciting and crucial step in ensuring the success of the business. By providing a comprehensive and thorough training process, newly hired window cleaners can quickly become effective and efficient members of the team. The training process should emphasize safety, hands-on demonstration, practice exercises, review of safety protocols, and ongoing training opportunities. If you can, follow the same general process with each new candidate and over time, your success and the success rate of new candidates will improve!

Our team at Detroit Sponge wants to support you and your business. Call or email with any questions about tips for training. We carry top window cleaning tools for the best manufacturers in the industry, check out our website today!

The post Top Five Steps for a Successful Hiring Process appeared first on Detroit Sponge.

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