Engagement Isn’t Extra — It’s Essential: Motivating Cleaning Teams the Right Way

In the fast-paced world of cleaning and environmental services, motivation can’t be driven by a paycheck alone. Teams thrive when they feel seen, heard, and valued. That’s why I was inspired by a recent CleanLink article on motivating cleaning teams through engagement and recognition.

What stood out most? The focus on emotional intelligence and generational understanding—something we talk about often in our leadership programs. A few key takeaways that align perfectly with our values at Rediscover Clean:

• Engagement is a two-way street – Don’t just talk. Listen. Empower your team to solve problems and bring ideas to the table.

• Recognition should be personalized – Baby Boomers might appreciate a thank-you card or public shoutout. Gen Z? A digital badge or quick Slack message might hit harder.

• Everyday wins matter – Perfect attendance, helping a teammate, or just showing kindness during a stressful shift all deserve recognition.

• Belonging drives retention – When your team feels like they belong, they’re more likely to stay, grow, and deliver excellence.

At Rediscover Clean, we believe that kindness and accountability are not opposites—they’re partners. Leadership rooted in empathy, with clear expectations and real feedback, creates cultures where people don’t just clean... they care.

If you’re struggling to keep your cleaning team engaged, don’t start with incentives. Start with intentional connection.