Lessons in Leadership

Empowering cleaning professionals to take ownership of their role creates a culture where excellence becomes the norm. This means involving team members in decisions that affect their work, like choosing equipment, giving feedback on cleaning protocols, or piloting new products.

In schools, for example, a custodian might suggest a safer or quicker way to clean up during passing periods. In hospitals, a housekeeper may have insight into high-touch areas that go unnoticed. In hospitality, a room attendant’s perspective can help improve room turnaround processes. These voices matter.

When workers of all ages are asked for input and see their ideas in action, they’re more likely to stay and invest in the outcome. 

Leading With Kindness 

Kindness isn’t soft, it’s strategic. Kindness in leadership is shown through empathy, accountability, and consistency. It’s walking the floor and asking, “How’s your day?” and meaning it. It’s following up when someone shares a concern. It’s remembering birthdays. It’s being firm without being harsh. 

Kindness is also about how we correct mistakes. It’s holding high standards but delivering feedback with respect. It’s understanding that someone may be struggling outside of work and showing grace when appropriate. 

When team members feel psychologically safe—when they know they won’t be humiliated or ignored—they bring their full effort, loyalty, and ideas. Kindness is the universal language for every generation. 

Creating a Culture of Belonging 

The best cleaning teams feel like families. Not because everyone is the same but because everyone feels seen. Initiatives that support this might include: 

• Peer-to-peer shoutouts
• New hire welcome rituals
• Team-building events or shared meals
• Mentorship pairings between generations
• Celebrations of cultural holidays or staff milestones

These don’t have to be expensive or elaborate. A handwritten card, a printed certificate, or a potluck lunch can go a long way. What matters most is consistency and sincerity. 

The cleaning industry is essential and the people who power it deserve to feel essential too. Engagement and recognition aren’t bonuses; they’re building blocks for productivity, quality, and retention. 

Whether you're managing a hospital EVS team, school custodians, hotel room attendants, or a night cleaning crew in a corporate high-rise, the formula is the same: lead with presence, recognize often, and treat people with dignity and kindness. Tailor your approach by generation, lead with emotional intelligence, and build a culture where every team member feels seen and valued. 

When leaders get this right, motivation rises, pride grows, and excellence follows. 

David Green is a hospitality and healthcare leadership advisor. His company, Rediscover Clean, provides consulting programs that focus on the employee experience—improving engagement, recognition, and results across cleaning teams of all kinds.