Do you ever think it would be nice to start your own business, but you're not quite sure what you should do? Consider starting a commercial cleaning business. With this, you can start small and build as you go. Here's what you'll need to do:

What's in a name?

What will you name your business? It should be something that's easy for customers to remember and should describe what your business does, as in, "Pat's Commercial Cleaning Services."

Get bonded, insured, and licensed

Bonding is necessary in case you or an employee are accused of theft. If this happens, police are involved, and the case will be investigated. If you're found guilty, the bond will pay out and you will then repay it. What this does for you in a nutshell is that it really just makes you look professional. If you're willing to cover yourself in the event an employee steals something from a customer, the client knows that you're professional and serious about your business. In turn, that means you'll do a good job.

Insurance is also necessary. In many cases, you won't be able to get clients without it. Do a search using the keyword phrase "liability insurance for small business," and you should come up with a lot of companies that will offer it.

Licensing is also important if you intend to be a professional business. Once you have a name, you can get a license through your state licensing agency. Requirements vary state to state; find your state to see just what requirements are.

Decide what services you're going to offer, and what you'll charge

It can vary somewhat, but most commercial cleaning services offer the basics (mopping, vacuuming, cleaning bathrooms, sweeping, emptying garbage cans, and dusting). Occasionally, you may need to clean carpets, or power wash tile floors. Research similar commercial cleaning services in your area to determine what they charge for their services, and then charge accordingly. You can entice new clients to come to you by offering a 10% discount on a first cleaning, and a 10% discount on one cleaning for any client who brings you a new customer.

Gather supplies

Do you need commercial cleaning supplies to clean offices? Absolutely. Household cleaners and equipment generally aren't strong enough to do as thorough a job as commercial cleaning supplies; commercial cleaning supplies are a bit stronger than household cleaners are, and they're also more cost-effective, since you can clean more with less product; similarly, commercial cleaning supplies' equipment is a bit sturdier and can handle tougher jobs. Search the Internet for companies that sell supplies in bulk; you can generally get them pretty cheaply this way.

Get the word out

Social networking sites have made marketing much easier these days. Set up a website that details what your business does through an inexpensive hosting plan, and then go on social networking sites and put up a page there, too. Use Twitter, blog sites, and networking sites to advertise and get clients. You can also go the old-fashioned route, like putting up flyers around town where you're allowed to, and taking out an ad in the Yellow Pages. Talk about your business to family and friends wherever you go, and spread the word that you're taking new clients. Pretty soon, you'll be busier than you ever thought possible!