12 things I've learnt in 12 months

12 Things I've Learnt in 12 months. A whole year and a bit has passed since our major rebrand of October 2020 – and wow, what a year it’s been!

Our business has always stood out a mile from the more traditional, corporate commercial cleaning company, and when we decided to rebrand, this was something we wanted to make very clear. The goal was to portray our fresh, fun, modern approach, whilst communicating authority, excellence and expertise. It was no mean feat, but I am pleased to say we absolutely nailed it!

Rebranding in the height of Covid was a challenge. It was also a huge investment, so wasn’t without risk. Thankfully it has proven to be a brilliant move and has been fundamental to our rapid growth over the last 12 months. Nowadays there’s absolutely no mistaking a Mrs Buckét vehicle or employee! Our refreshed logo, colours and designs are instantly recognisable and have helped push our profile through the roof.

The Mrs Buckét rebrand was very important to me personally, as well as to the company itself. It marked the end of an era, and the beginning of an incredible new one. Here’s just some of the things I’ve learned along the way…

1. First impressions matter?

We’re proud to be unlike any other commercial cleaning company we’ve come across. It’s a unique selling point, that we want to convey in an instant. Our new branding does exactly that. It enables people to see, at a glance, that Mrs Buckét is fun, modern, professional and authentic.

2. Design your brand for your customers

I love the Jeff Bezos quote:?“Branding is what people say about you when you’re not in the room”. Your brand is what connects you to your customers – so you effectively have to design it?for?your customers.

3. Authenticity is key

We don’t conform to a traditional corporate tone of voice because that’s not who we are. We’re a fresh, family-centred business. The rebrand has allowed us to demonstrate our personality and to differentiate ourselves from the rest of the industry. We don’t pretend or try to be anything we’re not…

4. Pursue your dreams, no matter how big or small?

If you’d have told me when I began cleaning at 18 that I would one day have a company with a turnover of almost ￡4.5 million, I would never have believed you. Shoot for your biggest dreams because they?can?come true.

5. Take time to reset

Everyone needs time to rest and reset. Prioritising that even when you feel like you don’t have time means you’ll be able to perform better overall, especially when you need to implement big plans.

6. Appreciate the now

While we’re always growing, I enjoy taking a step back to enjoy exactly where we are in the moment, as well as appreciating the team around me that make it all possible.

7. Ask for help

This year has been challenging to say the least, but having a strong community of people around me, including a mentor and other business owners, who I turn to for help and advice makes a huge difference.?I make a point of asking questions, listening and reflecting.

8. Communication?

Whether it’s communicating with your employees, clients, or competitors, mastering this skill is paramount. Clearly laying out your objectives, plans and thoughts maintains strong relationships and builds trust and authenticity within your business.

9. Mentor those around you

I’m a huge supporter of mentoring those around you. Whether someone is starting out in their career, or just needs some inspiration, teaching others is so valuable. It is also always a learning opportunity in itself.

10. Pay attention to detail

Both in cleaning and how you operate your business, paying attention to the smallest of details really makes a difference.

11. Change is an opportunity?

I try my best to embrace change as much as possible, because with change comes growth and opportunity to move outside of your comfort zone.

12. Reflect?

We have come so far since my humble beginnings, but especially in the last year where we’ve experienced unprecedented growth and hit some major milestones. It’s crucial to take the time to reflect in order to look at the bigger picture and celebrate your success.