Sales language can make or break a deal, especially in the commercial cleaning industry where trust and professionalism are key. Certain words and phrases may create unnecessary resistance, erode confidence, or give prospects the wrong impression. Here are 27 words to avoid in sales, with tailored examples and alternatives for commercial cleaning.
Words to Avoid in Sales with Examples for Commercial Cleaning
- “To be honest with you”
Example: “To be honest with you, we’re the best cleaning company around.”
Why to Avoid: Implies dishonesty in previous conversations.
Alternative: “We specialize in providing top-tier cleaning services.” - “Trust me”
Example: “Trust me, our team will exceed expectations.”
Why to Avoid: Trust is earned, not asked for.
Alternative: “Our long-term clients can vouch for our consistent quality.” - “Sorry to bother you”
Example: “Sorry to bother you, but I’d like to discuss our services.”
Why to Avoid: Lowers your authority.
Alternative: “I’d like to share how we can make your office shine.” - “Just following up”
Example: “I’m just following up on our last conversation.”
Why to Avoid: Implies desperation.
Alternative: “I wanted to check in and see how we can support your cleaning needs.” - “Cheap”
Example: “We offer cheap cleaning solutions.”
Why to Avoid: Suggests low quality.
Alternative: “Our solutions are cost-effective without compromising quality.” - “Buy”
Example: “Would you like to buy our service package?”
Why to Avoid: Highlights spending rather than value.
Alternative: “Would you like to invest in a cleaner, more productive workspace?” - “Contract”
Example: “You’ll need to sign a contract for our services.”
Why to Avoid: Sounds intimidating.
Alternative: “Let’s finalize an agreement to move forward.” - “I haven’t heard back from you”
Example: “I haven’t heard back from you about the proposal.”
Why to Avoid: Can make prospects feel guilty.
Alternative: “I wanted to follow up and answer any questions about our proposal.” - “We are better than [competitor]”
Example: “We’re better than XYZ Cleaning Company.”
Why to Avoid: Unprofessional and defensive.
Alternative: “Our approach focuses on reliability and exceeding expectations.” - “Discount”
Example: “We’re offering a discount on our cleaning packages.”
Why to Avoid: Devalues your service.
Alternative: “We have a special introductory rate for new clients.” - “Cost-effective”
Example: “Our cost-effective services are great for any budget.”
Why to Avoid: Overused and vague.
Alternative: “Our services save you money while maintaining quality.” - “Mandatory”
Example: “A mandatory walkthrough is required.”
Why to Avoid: Sounds rigid.
Alternative: “Let’s schedule a walkthrough to better understand your needs.” - “Basic”
Example: “We offer basic cleaning packages.”
Why to Avoid: Suggests mediocrity.
Alternative: “Our customizable cleaning plans fit your unique needs.” - “Quick”
Example: “We provide quick cleaning services.”
Why to Avoid: Implies rushed work.
Alternative: “We provide efficient, thorough cleaning on your schedule.” - “Always”
Example: “We always deliver perfect results.”
Why to Avoid: Sounds unrealistic.
Alternative: “We strive to consistently exceed expectations.” - “Problem”
Example: “We can fix all your cleaning problems.”
Why to Avoid: Focuses on negatives.
Alternative: “We provide solutions for a cleaner, healthier workspace.” - “Mistake”
Example: “Don’t make the mistake of choosing someone else.”
Why to Avoid: Feels accusatory.
Alternative: “Choose a trusted partner for your cleaning needs.” - “Risk”
Example: “Don’t risk hiring an unqualified team.”
Why to Avoid: Creates fear.
Alternative: “Our experienced team ensures dependable results.” - “Free”
Example: “We offer free consultations.”
Why to Avoid: May devalue your services.
Alternative: “Let’s discuss your cleaning needs—at no charge.” - “Obligation”
Example: “There’s no obligation to sign up.”
Why to Avoid: Suggests hesitation.
Alternative: “We’d love to show you how we can help.” - “Fastest”
Example: “We’re the fastest cleaning team in town.”
Why to Avoid: Implies rushed work.
Alternative: “We balance speed and quality to meet your deadlines.” - “Perfect”
Example: “Our service is perfect for you.”
Why to Avoid: Unrealistic promise.
Alternative: “Our services are tailored to your specific needs.” - “Individual”
Example: “We cater to busy individuals like you.”
Why to Avoid: Feels cold and impersonal.
Alternative: “We focus on supporting busy professionals.” - “Better”
Example: “We’re better than other cleaning companies.”
Why to Avoid: Puts down competitors.
Alternative: “We pride ourselves on delivering reliable results.” - “Unique”
Example: “We offer unique cleaning solutions.”
Why to Avoid: Overused and vague.
Alternative: “Our customized cleaning solutions meet your exact requirements.” - “Revolutionary”
Example: “We have revolutionary cleaning methods.”
Why to Avoid: Can feel exaggerated.
Alternative: “We use advanced methods for optimal results.” - “Must-have”
Example: “Our cleaning service is a must-have for businesses.”
Why to Avoid: Feels pushy.
Alternative: “Your business deserves the care we provide.”
Closing Thought:
By avoiding these 27 words and phrases, you can position your commercial cleaning services as trustworthy, professional, and solution-driven. Words matter—choose them wisely to build trust and close more deals!
I’m doing cold emails for Commercial Cleaning and Janitorial services. In the blog section, I write about various fields, such as marketing tips, details about my birthplace, and other information that isn’t widely available online. I hope you find it helpful!