Because of the current economic climate our publication has started a series of discussions with professional individuals meant to engage our readers with relevant companies and their representatives in order to discuss about their involvement, what challenges they have had in the past and what they are looking forward to in the future. This sequence aims to present a series of experiences, recent developments, changes and downsides in terms of their business areas, as well as their goals, values, career history, the high-impact success outcomes and achievements.
Robert Ayala is the CEO of Maidhawk by Hawkbright, Inc. is the Uber of the home cleaning industry, with on-demand only maid service. Scheduled cleanings unavailable.
More about Robert and his experience as an entrepreneur can be found below:
What’s the story behind Maidhawk?
After leaving the live events software company I helped start, and worked for, for 14 years, Vendini (which sold along with Theatremania and others to a private equity firm doing a consolidation in the space), I decided to develop Android and iOS apps to connect home cleaners with customers who needed their homes cleaned in Manhattan and NYC. It started off as an experiment, and grew into being a real business. We totally shut down at the height of the pandemic, but with new cleaning guidelines in place, which we took from the new AirBnB enhanced cleaning standards to be honest, we’ve been able to reopen and start doing business again. People are happy to have their homes cleaned again, and especially with Covid minded standards in place.
What was the most difficult part of your experience in the early beginnings?
Marketing, not having enough money to get the word out.
What are you most proud of regarding your business?
Helping individual cleaners make a living. I remember early on, one of our cleaners named Jenny, informed me that Maidhawk has helped save their home from foreclosure. That the extra income she was making helped supplement her husband’s income, and that as a result were able to make their house payments again.
What is your vision for the future of Maidhawk?
To expand beyond NYC into other cities. To better cater to both the “on demand” market for those wanting cleanings NOW, and for scheduled cleanings for those who want cleanings at set times each week.
What’s your advice for the businesses that are trying to adapt to this economic climate?
Follow all recommended guidelines for operating your business, and have patience with the changing recommendations. This will eventually pass and we’ll be back to normal someday!
What books do you have on your nightstand?
The Inner Game Of Tennis, Contrarians Guide To Leadership, The Founders Dilemma.
