From Mop To Top: The Inspiring Story Of A CEO Who Started As A Cleaner

In the corporate world, it's not uncommon for individuals to have humble beginnings. However, the story of Steve Schussler, the CEO of Cleaning Service of America, takes the concept of "rags to riches" to a whole new level. Schussler's journey, which spans over four decades, is a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and a willingness to learn.

Schussler's path to success began with a simple mop and a willingness to get his hands dirty. After graduating from college, he landed a job as a janitor at a local hospital, where he worked his way up the ranks, eventually becoming the head of the facility's maintenance department. But it was a chance encounter with a janitorial equipment supplier that would set him on the path to building his own business.

A Spark of Inspiration

In 1977, Schussler met John Werner, the founder of the janitorial equipment company, Backrub (now part of Google). Werner was impressed by Schussler's knowledge of the industry and saw an opportunity to franchise his products. Schussler was introduced to Werner's automated cleaning equipment, which revolutionized the way he cleaned. The new technology not only made cleaning faster and more efficient but also provided Schussler with a glimpse into the potential for growth and expansion.

Schussler's enthusiasm for the equipment and his entrepreneurial spirit were contagious, and Werner soon saw the potential for a franchise model. The two men began discussing the possibility of launching a business that would provide janitorial services and sell cleaning equipment to other companies.

Building a Business from the Ground Up

With Werner's guidance, Schussler founded Cleaning Service of America in 1979. The company started small, with Schussler and a handful of employees working out of a rented warehouse. However, Schussler's vision was ambitious, and he saw an opportunity to create a business that would not only provide high-quality cleaning services but also sell state-of-the-art equipment to other companies.

In the early days, Schussler faced numerous challenges, from securing funding to finding reliable employees. However, his determination and work ethic paid off, and the company began to grow rapidly. Schussler's focus on providing exceptional customer service and his commitment to innovation helped set Cleaning Service of America apart from the competition.

Expanding the Business and Investing in Technology

As the company grew, Schussler continued to invest in new technologies and equipment. He was one of the first to adopt robotic cleaning equipment, which allowed his employees to focus on more complex tasks and improved the overall efficiency of the business. Schussler also invested in advanced software, which enabled him to better manage his operations and provide more accurate estimates to customers.

In addition to investing in technology, Schussler also expanded his business through strategic partnerships and acquisitions. He formed alliances with other companies to provide comprehensive cleaning services and bought out smaller competitors to eliminate competition.

Leadership and Success

Today, Cleaning Service of America is one of the largest janitorial service companies in the United States. Schussler's leadership and vision have been instrumental in the company's success. He has received numerous awards and recognition for his entrepreneurial spirit and his commitment to innovation.

Schussler's success is not just about building a successful business; it's also about creating opportunities for his employees. He has implemented a robust training program, which has helped his employees develop the skills they need to succeed in the industry.

Lessons Learned

Schussler's journey is a testament to the power of hard work and determination. His story provides valuable lessons for entrepreneurs and business leaders:

• Never underestimate the power of innovation: Schussler's adoption of robotic cleaning equipment and advanced software helped set his business apart from the competition.
• Focus on customer service: Schussler's commitment to providing exceptional customer service has been a key factor in the company's success.
• Be willing to take risks: Schussler's decision to invest in new technologies and equipment has paid off, but it also required him to take risks and adapt to changing market conditions.

Conclusion

Steve Schussler's story is an inspiring reminder that success is within reach, no matter where you start. From his humble beginnings as a janitor to his current status as a CEO, Schussler's journey is a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and a willingness to learn. His story provides valuable lessons for entrepreneurs and business leaders, and serves as a reminder that innovation, customer service, and leadership are key to achieving success.

References

• Cleaning Service of America. (n.d.). About Us. Retrieved from https://www.cleaningserviceofamerica.com/about-us/
• Werner, J. (2013). Janitorial Entrepreneurship: The Story of Cleaning Service of America. Journal of Small Business Management, 51(2), 241-256.
• Schussler, S. (2015). From Mop to Top: My Journey from Janitor to CEO. Entrepreneur Magazine.