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When Jonathan King was 16 and finally enjoying the freedom of a driver’s license, he hit a major obstacle. It wasn’t another car. It was his own introverted nature.
“I pulled up to a Steak n’ Shake, and I was going to order,” said King. “But I was so introverted and had no belief in myself. (I couldn’t) even talk to a microphone at a fast-food restaurant. I had to pull away because I couldn't tell them what I wanted on my sandwich.”
The owner of King’s Cleaning Solutions eventually overcame his social anxiety, but he readily admits he didn’t do it alone. He credits his wife, Maggie, and her extroverted nature for bringing him out of his shell.
That personal growth translated into success as a small business owner, and on April 18, the local business community validated his efforts by naming King’s Cleaning Solutions the Greater Kokomo Chamber of Commerce’s Business of the Month for April 2024.
During a reception at Inventrek Technology Park, Chamber President Courtney Butler presented King with the award during a ceremony livestreamed on Facebook.
“The goal of the Small Business of the Month Award is to recognize the dedication, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit of these small businesses in our community,” said Butler. “I know you were kind of shocked when I called and told you about this. Thanks for being our third winner for 2024 and growing with us and doing the things you do.”
John Fansler, owner of Budget Blinds and co-sponsor of the monthly award, also expressed his pride in recognizing King’s Cleaning Solutions. This is the first year for the award, and each monthly winner in 2024 will be considered for the Business of the Year honor.
“Jonathan and Maggie King are so community minded while also providing excellent customer service,” said Fansler. “They serve our community through giving back to our nonprofit organizations. They provide many services for free and donate many dollars back to our community and organizations.
“They strive to recommend and promote other businesses as well. Their customer service is always top-notch. That's what makes (King’s) an ideal candidate for this award.”
Dressed in a smart-looking black vest and bow tie, King expressed his gratitude to the Chamber for honoring his business.
“I came to Kokomo and literally knew nobody in this town,” said King. “I went to one chamber event. And then Grace Jones invited me to a BNI (Business Network International) event. That's where I met like 40-some people; we have at least 20 of them standing behind the camera.
“If it wasn't for their leadership capabilities, there's no way in the world I'd be standing here right now.”
King explained that the BNI members funneled work to his fledgling cleaning business and helped him find his footing in the local market. Because of resources like the Chamber and BNI, King’s Cleaning Solutions is thriving. King isn’t ashamed to credit their role in his success.
“Zig Ziglar has a really good saying: ‘If you see a turtle sitting on a fence post, it didn't get there by itself,’” said King. “That's totally true with me. It's a very humbling experience to be a winner in the small business world in Kokomo.
“If you see (King’s) explode from here, it’s because somebody else has taken me under their wing and given me a lot of insight that I really appreciate.”
King's Cleaning Solutions offers carpet cleaning, tile and grout cleaning services, upholstery cleaning, natural stone maintenance, area rug and hardwood floor cleaning, and ductwork cleaning in Kokomo, Logansport, Peru, Russiaville, and Lafayette. Call (765) 698-5096 for more information.