It’s been almost a year for me having a pest control business license. I don’t know how long after the license issue that I can call what I do “a business”. Maybe, now? I am doing work for pay. Yea, it’s a business.
GETTING STARTED
When I was trying to get supplies ordered so I would have the right products to care for customer needs, I got lots of advice. Buy this, not that. Use this vendor, not that one. What I learned from my women’s pest control group: Fill out the surveys…always.
Those surveys are a pain. They ask a lot of personal questions. You get unsolicited phone calls and emails. But… there’s always a but. If you read those emails and answer the phone calls, you will find, like I did, some amazingly helpful information on the other end. Those vendors and suppliers want you to be successful. AND….You get free stuff. Who doesn’t like free stuff?
STOCKING UP
I did spend a few thousand dollars on chemicals and other pest control supplies. By filling out those surveys, I got to try other items that I might not have purchased. In this process, I received a sample of a mosquito treatment that I have found to be perfect for my area – it’s a botanical and 25b exempt.
For doing a survey about ants, I won a $100 gift card that I spent on a much needed massage.
I have industry contacts that sent me posters to help ID insects…. some full size, and some pocket sized to leave with my customers.
In a chat group, a manufacturer rep offered to send informational materials. Of course I said yes.
One chemical company offered free samples of its popular aerosols.
Most recently, I submitted a story about how I really liked a rodent bait. The T-shirt I received is cool. I think mice are too cute for me to actually be a member of The Rodent Death Squad, but I will wear the shirt.
New Card Deck teaches IPM Strategies
These product giveaways are usually meant for licensed pest control professionals. Always check with your state requirements for purchase, using, or possession of any pest control items. Please read labels and SDSs.
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