Patrick Hogan

Customer service and long hours spell success for janitorial service

In 1997 Patrick Hogan faced a major decision after being laid off. Try to find another job that maintained his pay level, or start his own business. He chose the latter. The 44 year-old Indianapolis native and Arsenal Tech High School graduate started doing floor stripping and waxing on a part time basis. He prepared a flyer and over a three-year period, his company Hogan's Company Janitorial Service landed contracts to do janitorial work in 23 buildings. How did he do it?

Practical and Diverse Experience

Hogan credits his National Guard duty and work in several industries as good preparation for operating his own business. "The Guard taught me self-discipline, motivation and to trust other people." Before starting his own business Patrick worked in the machine shop and transportation industries as well is in the janitorial industry.

Hard Work and Long Hours

Like many entrepreneurs Hogan's success comes with hard work. "I work 16 hour days, supervising janitorial work at night and doing administration during the day. It's a constant struggle. I have to constantly market and advertise. I take nothing for granted. Everyday is like the first day I started."

Despite the hard work, Hogan draws gratification from his business. "It makes me feel good to know that I put this together and see it unfold. I've started something myself."

Customer Service

Hogan's Company Janitorial Service works in office buildings, churches, schools, apartments, manufacturing establishments and retail buildings. Regardless of the building, Hogan employs a consistent customer service approach. "Each customer has my personal commitment. I like to make sure that my customers are totally satisfied. I try to go beyond the call of duty. I'm personally involved in each building I have."

Loyal Help

Hogan recognizes the importance of his employees to his business success. "I feel fortunate to have workers to help me make a mark. I like to see my employees grow. My number one commitment is making sure my people get paid. I feel proud that I've never missed a payroll."

Small Business Training

Hogan enrolled in the Business Ownership Initiative of Indiana's (BOI) Business Beginnings course. "I was considering opening my own business at the time. I thought it was a perfect fit." The course covers such topics as goal setting, business planning, marketing, legal forms of business, insurance, product and service pricing and financial management.

Hogan found that the BOI course helped him focus his efforts. "The course helped me understand what it takes to start a business. I had several ideas and BOI training helped me choose the business I wanted to be in. It made me focus on one business. BOI also helped me try to target the type of customers I want to have."

Not for Everyone

Based on his entrepreneurial experience, Hogan offers much advice to potential entrepreneurs. He recommends that anyone contemplating starting a business give it some serious thought. "Being an entrepreneur isn't for everyone. It takes a certain type of person who wants to be in charge. The buck stops with you. You wear a lot of different hats. You have to be committed. Never take anybody or anything for granted. You have to really believe in yourself, your workers and the service you provide."