Whether customers reach out through phone calls, emails, or social media, a prompt response is essential. In today’s episode, Eric dives into the topic of retention. He gives a sneak peek of an upcoming Bug Bux+ course that will provide a comprehensive guide on how to save customers. Eric discusses the course outline and shares his thoughts on the importance of retention in the pest control industry.

Topics Include:

Retention efforts should start from the beginning (2:21)
Customer experience is crucial (5:13) Customer value drives long-term retention (10:15)
Effective communication is crucial (15:41)
Setting clear customer expectations (21:09)
Clear communication is essential (31:09)

Are you prioritizing what matters most in your life and business? In today’s episode, Allan and Eric discuss how to build deeper connections and set higher goals to achieve a higher level of fulfillment in both your relationships and in your pest control company.

Topics include:

Focus on your “why” (4:43)

Evaluate goals for greater success (9:44)

Setting goals and reviewing them regularly (10:53)

Leadership is about delegation (19:57)

Align goals for greater impact (22:28)

Don’t quit, Keep pushing forward (29:46)

Special deals for Bug Bux+ members (32:48)

A mentor can help you discover the essential steps to establish a trustworthy and reputable brand, paving the way for exponential growth in your pest control company. In today’s episode, Allan and Eric welcome Colton Gonzales and Eric Salgado, the owners of Firehouse Pest Control. They discuss the importance of taking action and getting started, even if you don’t have all the knowledge or experience.

Topics include:
How they got started (2:05)
First $400 check from door knocking (3:41)
Creating an environment for growth (8:07) Finding a mentor in pest control (12:21) Collaboration in the pest control industry (15:55)
Collaborative partnerships in business (18:07)
Sharing knowledge for success (22:00) Seeking advice and new perspectives (28:18)

What’s new with Bug Bux+? In today’s episode, Eric welcomes back Hunter Annen, Co-Founder and President of Bug Bux+.
Eric and Hunter discuss the courses offered by Bug Bux+ and reflect on the positive feedback they have received from PCOs.

Topics Include:
Pest control business growth and learning platform (1:57)
Feedback from PCOs (6:38)
Pest control courses and vendor partnerships (11:06)
Building a pest control platform with vendor partnerships (19:27)
Streamlining vendor connections for pest control companies(23:51)

In this special 100th episode, Allan and Eric welcome back Mat Rogers, the COO of Lizard SEM. Mat touches on the importance of planning and setting your marketing goals for the following year by focusing on 5 key components.

Topics include:

Consistency is key to success (2:58)
Optimize website for off-season (6:10)
Track and monitor marketing data (10:31)
Don't overlook digital marketing's impact (17:19)
Utilize off-season for strategic marketing (22:05)
Tailor your marketing plan to budget (25:44)
Use data to scale your company (28:30)
Prepare for success in your business (33:36)

How often are you doing performance reviews for employees? Which review format is best? Eric answers a question posted by Shane Mantz in the Bugbux Facebook group. "Has anyone implemented an end-of-season, after-action review?" Eric answers the what, how, and why, of performance reviews.

Topics include:

Where to start (1:50) 

Technician performance examples (3:07) 

Using a structured format (12:58) 

Getting non-performance related feedback (18:34) 

Teaching your team to self-evaluate (20:15)

Ten easy steps for a simple and effecting performance review (21:22)

Being intentional and proactive in your business is crucial as it allows you to anticipate challenges, explore opportunities, and steer your company toward growth and success. In today’s episode, Allan and Eric welcome Caleb Fabry. Caleb is the President of Town and Country Pest Solutions in Rochester NY. Caleb shares his experience of taking over the family business and the trust his parents had in him to make important decisions. Caleb also discusses the benefits and challenges of starting a business from scratch versus inheriting one.

Where should a PCO start when it comes to lowering customer attrition? In today’s episode, Allan and Eric answer questions posted in the Bug Bux Facebook Group. Lowering customer attrition is essential for pest control companies to maintain a strong customer base and drive sustainable growth. In addition, a PCO should have a strong understanding of their gross profits and margins, to identify trends in their company.

In today's episode, Eric welcomes Austin Burns. Austin is the director of operations at Burns Pest Elimination. What started as a father and son business in 1983 with 43 customers and one service truck has turned into a $25-million venture for the Burns family. Eric and Austin discuss the importance of finding a unique differentiator in the pest control industry and why building a strong team is crucial for success. Austin also shares the challenges and rewards of running a family business and the impact it can have on future generations.

Creating consistent and genuine recognition can go a long way in motivating technicians. In today’s episode, Allan and Eric discuss ways to keep technicians motivated and committed to providing great service for your pest control company. When you and your technicians share a common objective, they are more likely to work together, collaborate, and support one another in achieving that goal.
In addition, offering training and development opportunities for the professional growth of your technicians shows that you value their skills, and are committed to their career advancement.