These economic times will separate the sharp companies from the gliders in any industry. Each customer, each service and each lead has to be pursued with the energy that hasn't been required for some time. Companies hoping to build their businesses by waiting for the phone to ring will be sorely disappointed.

We can't solve the oil price fiasco ... we can take steps to reduce the amount of fuel we consume

The wise technician spends time looking at direction of the water flow and signs of infestation

By now, the news that PMP Hall of Famer Charlie Hromada passed away Feb. 9 has settled, and we have taken some time to reflect. Death is a part of life, and part of how we learn from sadness.

Previously, we looked at a few long-term projects for companies that have a little down time during the winter. Now let's now look at a few important operational tasks that can be done relatively easily before the busy spring season hits.

Don't hibernate. Take advantage of the slow winter season. Tune up your operations now so you can have a banner year in 2008.

Food plant accounts are reserved for the best of technicians. The food industry, at nearly $1 trillion in annual sales in the United States alone, is required to keep its facilities and food pest-free.

Some states require farming-related pest management to get any credit for training, but most PMPs don't use tractors to bait for roaches.

Customer service excellence demands that you fully understand what each customer wants and are committed to doing whatever it takes to exceed the client's expectations. This includes serving the world of real-estate agents.