Page 11 - DCA - Construction Excellence Awards 2019

Q: You’re now in 14 states. How are the requirements for entering a new market different?
Q: Does most of your business come from prospecting for new clients or from RFPs?
A: There are not a lot of requirements in our industry as it is not heavily
regulated therefore entrance into new markets has few barriers. We have Q: successfully created and put in place processes that enable us to manage
clients, employees and vendors in multiple states. Over time this has given
us the ability to “scale up” our presence in these states.
Q: How do you approach the challenge of hiring and retaining good people?
A: This is a constant challenge for us particularly due to a better economy
and low unemployment rates. We maintain constant recruitment efforts Q: regardless of whether there is an open position or not. Offering competitive
wages and a positive work environment are two critical components to
attracting the best people.
Q: What have you found to be your competitive advantage in the Delaware marketplace?
A: A thirty year track record of providing excellent customer service and value creates a “competitive edge”. We include many service offerings for the customer with one point of contact, one phone call, one invoice, all under one simple contract. Our clients see that as a tremendous “value add”.
Q: Are there common needs that you see when a construction company is looking for a company such as yours?
A: Construction companies are looking for the best cleaning company capable of doing the job right and on time. We are typically the last contractor on the job before the building gets turned over to the end user. Their “first impression” of the finished product is important to us!
A: My goal is to continue to build the brand. I am not limiting our company to any geographic region, product or service offering. My goals are set, the opportunities are limitless.
Q: What sort of metrics do you use (or do your clients use) to assess your success?
A: We go on the offense on this front so that our client does not experience any problems with service. We measure our success “one customer at a time”. It may sound like a cliché but it’s true. We constantly inspect our locations and “grade” out the results so our people can see how they are doing. We meet and talk with our clients on a regular basis to make sure they are satisfied with our services.
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Cheryl Ecton, CEO
1800 Naamans Rd, Suite 2, Wilmington, DE 19810 elitebuildingservices.com
A: It is a combination of both. Much of our new business comes from referrals. What challenges (or advantages) have you faced as a woman-
owned enterprise in a male-dominated industry?
A: When I started my business I was a “business owner” and mother at the same time. That presented unique challenges especially due to the fact
my daughter had serious health issues to deal with. Today, there are advantages of being a “woman owned” company in the marketplace. It can open up doors now that I may not have had.
What’s next for Elite – geographic expansion, product/service expansion, or something else?
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