We recently had the chance to connect with Mrs. Crystal Hughey and have shared our conversation below.
Crystal, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
I am currently working on my Doctor of Theology degree at Liberty University. My focus is Next Generation Ministry. I am very excited to learn what the younger generations need, how I can help, and how to share Jesus in a relatable, real-time way.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Since 1997, Corporate Cleaning Inc. has been delivering high-quality construction and commercial cleaning services across Central Ohio. Our slogan is, “It’s not just clean, it’s Corporate Clean.” In 2017, we created the CCI cleaning method to ensure consistent, quality results. More importantly, we prioritize building strong relationships with our clients to provide peace of mind. For our staff, we foster a family-like culture. Whether they stay with us for a year or lifelong, our goal is to make a positive difference in their lives through competitive wages, excellent growth opportunities, and supportive financial resources.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
I used to see myself as shy, a wallflower, believing I had nothing worthwhile to say. Back then, I aimed to remain unnoticed, fearing that trying something new and failing would label me as a failure. Now, I understand that failure is a natural part of the growth process. It reflects an action or outcome, but does not define who I am, as it is only temporary. Failure teaches me to learn, grow stronger, explore new options, adjust my goals if necessary, and continue striving to achieve them.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes! Honestly, there is a time, at least once a year, when I think, “That’s it! I’m done! I want to work for someone else.” It is normal for an entrepreneur to feel stressed, lonely, overwhelmed, and underappreciated at times. Sometimes I wonder, “Is this really worth it?” But it always is. The positives far outweigh the negatives or the challenging moments. I love hearing success stories from our team members when they can take paid time off and enjoy a well-deserved, financially viable vacation or make a big purchase. Seeing their satisfaction when we turn a particularly challenging job site into a sparkling symbol of success makes me happy. Also, when we see the relief and appreciation on our customers’ faces, it’s clear that we’ve delivered services that save them time and money. Knowing that our business makes a difference by operating with integrity and honor gives me a sense of purpose. We have also had the honor of mentoring other companies along the way, and helping them grow brings me great joy.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. How do you differentiate between fads and real foundational shifts?
That can be tricky. I stay informed by regularly reviewing trade publications, national trending news, and financial forecasts, attending virtual or in-person networking events, and consulting with our financial advisors. For instance, during the pandemic, there were numerous opportunities to expand our customer base for disinfection services. We received many new inquiries from both local and out-of-state clients. We observed that entire companies, focusing on disinfection cleaning services, emerged overnight. We decided to limit new business pursuits and concentrate on serving our current clients or those referred by them. Although COVID-19 was unprecedented, we were worried the disinfection-only market might collapse. It did, so we are glad we did not fully pivot our team training and commercial equipment toward that sector. Developing the ability to differentiate has been a skill we have honed over the past twenty-eight years.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I am doing what I was born to do. Leading and inspiring people has always been at the core of my being, even when I was unaware of it. I love cheering people on, helping them reach their goals, and creating opportunities for success. We are a Christian company. I love demonstrating and sharing the love of Christ through our culture, principles, work ethic, and values.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.corporatecleaning.us/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/2970250
- Twitter: https://x.com/CCI_Cleaning
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CCIcleaning
Image Credits
Crystal Hughey.
