Today we’d like to introduce you to Teri Moore.
Teri, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I was working for a Construction Company that specialized in renovating apartments. At the end of the renovation, we would go in and clean the units before turning them back over to the property. I would always have trouble securing a cleaner for my units. One day I decided to just clean them myself. My clients were happy with my work so I said I’m going to continue doing them. Fast forward to March of this year not only did we go into a pandemic, but I was unexpectedly terminated.
I was devastated, I didn’t have any savings and because of the pandemic, jobs were scarce. I meditated and prayed (a lot) it suddenly came to me that I enjoyed cleaning for my clients when I was employed, why not kick start my own business. The downfall was the clients I had belonged to the company, and I would have to start fresh. Well, the bills don’t stop; I’m even in a pandemic, so I got to work calling everyone I knew to clean their business or their homes. I would be on social media seeing people advancing in their businesses, and I was sure I could do it. I have always wanted to be in a position to help people. I just wasn’t sure exactly how to do it. One day I received some very good advice from a friend of a friend to join this company that sells leads for several types of businesses. Of course, with anything new, it takes time, well again, the bills don’t stop and the financial assistance wasn’t going to last long. I will be honest. I cried a lot of tears and worried quite a bit.
My family encouraged me to keep pushing. They reminded me that I’m a strong, ambitious individual and whatever I put my mind to, I could do it. After a few months, the leads started generating and now I’m overwhelmed. I need to hire someone to help me. I’m so grateful for where I am now as compared to where I was six months ago. I know my story isn’t necessarily different from what anyone else has experienced this year, but I hope my story can encourage someone who loss their job for whatever reason to pursue their dreams, don’t stop keep pushing. I was angry, sad, hurt, felt all types of betrayal from my former employer, someone I had known and worked with for twenty years to do this to me. Now I can thank him for releasing me to do my own thing and to do what I was created to do help others.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
No, it has not been smooth. I’m being challenged almost daily. In this business, if the phone doesn’t ring, there’s no work. It can be frustrating and many times, I wanted to say forget this. Just when I think I can’t do it anymore, I will complete a job and the client thank me and tell me how much I helped to relieve stress. That’s an awesome feeling and a priceless reward. Moving can be very frustrating. It gives me great pleasure to help individuals/families make that transition as smooth as possible.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about My Cleaning Bees – what should we know?
I have a cleaning company I clean residential homes and commercial businesses. My specialty is residential, but I would like to focus more on commercial. Since I have been doing this when I go to stores or anywhere for that matter, my clean senses take over. I see so many areas that could be cleaner.
I’m proud that even in a business with so much competition, I feel like I offer a more customer-based experience. I try and get to know my clients before booking the appointment so that when I arrive, I already know exactly what they want. I listen to them and I’m passionate about what I do.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
Wow, yes, I owe a big thank you to my daughters Jordan and Erica. They have definitely been there through the happy and sad days. My oldest granddaughter Taylor (I keep her during the week for virtual school) she helps me out with the cleans and helps keep me organized. My mom, she’s volunteered to help me out and has been a listening ear when I feel frustrated. My friends have been there for me, offering advise and cheering me on to never give up. I have a great support system. I’m very grateful and so thankful to be surrounded by such wonderful people.
Pricing:
- Residential cleans start at $90
- Residential move in/out start at $150
- Organizing/Packing $15 per hour
Contact Info:
- Website: www.the-cleaningbees.com
- Phone: 678-979-8141
- Email: thecleaningbees2019@yahoo.com
- Instagram: thecleaningbees_2019
Image Credit:
Fontz Graphic Designs
Suggest a story: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.