Its an interesting thread this. Different cleaners work in different ways. I work set days work each week so my customers know exactly when I'm coming and I try to fill the days to near capacity. I am very rarely late, I worked today in the snow. Others have a round that they loop so to speak just doing the next customer once they have done the previous regardless of the date.
The point about charging 25% on top is very relevant as loads of knew windies go in at very low prices to replace shop or factory work and then can't work out why they aren't making a living. Yes you should always be trying to shed lower paid work when your books are nearly full.
Simon.
At last, I'm working exactly the same, I keep it very tight.
Over Xmas, if they are due, I miss the due date and tell custy next clean jan 25th etc etc.
That way,I'm not behind, and even with losing that bit of income, it's much less stressful as your mind set is not in the 'I'm behind' mode
Oh, and I worked in the snow, got few weird looks, like I'd killed their mother, but just cracked on...
Mr B