Bed bug business dos and don’ts

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March 1, 2013

Top seven bed bug business dos:

1. Perform a thorough inspection prior to quoting the customer. Having an accurate account of the infestation prior to treatment will make for
a lasting solution.
2. Educate the customer. The more the customer understands regarding the specifics of the infestation — causes, treatment, and prevention — the better the results of the service.
3. Preparation pays off. Prep-work, when done correctly, will save time and headaches later for both business and customer. Provide specific instructions for pre-treatment preparation and a contact for questions during the process.
4. Be thorough. Treat each case as if it is worse than it appears. While beds and fabrics are often the main focus for treatment, it’s important to include the insides of drawers, wall plates, curtain rods and ventilation systems.
5. Be compassionate. Try to understand the customer and their situation. Individuals and businesses alike are affected by the emotional distress of a bed bug infestation. Present a treatment plan that increases their confidence in the situation and you.
6. Be persistent about scheduling follow-up appointments. A mandatory follow up one week after treatment increases the chances
of success and reassures the customer.
7. Know your specialty. Companies that are not equipped to provide treatment for bed bug infestations should not. Bed bug removal requires specialized teams and equipment.

Top seven bed bug business don’ts:

1. Don’t assume. Perform an inspection before quoting price. It’s easy to underestimate the scope of a project without looking at it as a professional.
2. Don’t rush. A casual attitude and quick inspection won’t pay off. Take your time and be honest with the customer about the timeline. Inspect, treat and follow up in the amount of time it takes to complete the job.
3. Don’t rely on one method. Foggers, bombs, and fumigation will not solve the problem alone. Use several methods for treatment to increase the likelihood of success. Investigate new products and methods.
4. Don’t treat only one room. Treat surrounding areas and any high-probability areas for infestation.
5. Don’t be cheap. Compromising integrity to meet the bottom line will only cause lackluster results and dissatisfied customers.
6. Don’t provide a guarantee. One treatment may not be enough to eradicate an infestation.
Create service contracts specifically for bed bug customers indicating the scope of work involved in providing
a total solution.
7. Don’t bring your work home. Protocols are there for your protection. Professionals know the ins and outs of infestation; don’t let it happen to you.

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