Pest industry challenges discussed at the Pest Daily conference

PHOTO COURTESY OF PEST DAILY

I recently had the privilege of sitting on a mid-January panel at the Pest Daily conference focused on “Scale.” The experience provided a wealth of valuable insights. Although the attendees represented a diverse range of pest control companies, it was striking how many of the challenges we discussed were shared across the board — topics such as leadership, operational efficiency, growth strategies and acquisition approaches. This commonality underscored the fact that, regardless of size or market niche, we are all grappling with the same fundamental issues that will shape the future of our industry.

One key takeaway that resonated with me was the distinction between “Knowing and Learning,” presented by Seth Garber, CEO of Pest Daily. While many of us are familiar with the statistics and key performance indicators (KPIs) that drive our businesses, there is a significant difference between understanding these metrics and ensuring that our teams are equipped to actively impact them.

For example, it’s one thing to know the company’s revenue target or customer acquisition goals, but it’s another to ensure that every team member understands how their actions directly influence those numbers. This understanding fosters a sense of ownership and accountability, which is critical for driving performance. Research shows that 73 percent of employees who understand how their work contributes to the company’s success are more engaged, which in turn leads to higher productivity and better outcomes as cited in a Gallup, 2021 report. This connection between knowledge and action is where companies can truly make a difference, leading to more sustained growth and improved business performance.

Another theme that was consistently highlighted during our discussions was leadership. Effective leadership in the pest control industry is not just about setting direction; it’s about empowering teams to contribute meaningfully towards the company’s goals. Leaders must not only articulate a clear vision but also inspire their teams to take initiative and innovate.

Equally important is operational efficiency. With the increasing pressures of a competitive market and labor shortages, companies are seeking ways to streamline their operations without compromising quality. Several new technologies, artificial intelligence included, were discussed, but it was noted that so many technologies are still in their infancy.

Lastly, a highlight of every industry conference is the opportunity to reconnect with familiar faces and exchange ideas. It’s always a pleasure to engage with colleagues and peers who share similar experiences, as these interactions often spark new ideas and strategies that can be applied within our own organizations. The ability to learn from one another and collaborate is a vital component of driving progress in the industry.

Ultimately, while the challenges we face in leadership, efficiency, growth and acquisitions are significant, they are not insurmountable. By continuing to learn from each other, share our experiences and build on the collective knowledge of the industry, we can foster an environment of growth and innovation that benefits all of us.

I look forward to continuing these conversations and seeing the industry evolve as we work together toward a stronger, more resilient future. A special thank you to Pest Daily for inviting me to speak at their conference for the second straight year.