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Articles by Foster Brusca
Leverage digital tools to stay ahead of the competition
The pest control industry has come a long way from paper logs and manual scheduling. Today, technology is revolutionizing how we manage operations, interact with customers and enhance service efficiency. From mobile apps to business management software and online training platforms, digital tools are becoming essential for pest management professionals (PMPs) who want to stay ahead of the competition.
Insights from the 2025 Women in Pest Control Conference
The 2025 Women in Pest Control conference, held on March 6–7 at the historic Rumely Event Space in Kansas City, was a testament to the growing influence of women in the pest control industry. Over two days, an inspiring group of professionals came together to celebrate education, collaboration and empowerment. Before the conference officially began, a select group of attendees was treated to an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of Rockwell Labs, headquartered in Kansas City.
4 strategies for closing sales with confidence
Sales can be a challenging but rewarding aspect of your pest control career. It requires a mixture of industry knowledge, interpersonal skills and confidence to turn leads into loyal customers. Closing a sale often comes down to building trust, addressing customer concerns and confidently presenting tailored solutions. Sales strategies for pest management professionals (PMPs) should emphasize relationship-building, overcoming objections and showcasing the value of your services.
Pest Posse TV set to launch Road to Success giveaway
The Pest Posse is set to launch the “Great Pest Posse TV Giveaway – Road to Success” giveaway. The contest will be run from March 3, 2025, through May 31, 2025, and its goal is to engage the community and reward participants with prizes from leading manufacturers and The Pest Posse. Details of this exciting giveaway will be announced live on Pest Posse TV on March 3 at 5 p.m. Eastern. Pre-registration for this live event is now open.
5 ways to sharpen your pest identification skills
Effective pest control hinges on one foundational skill: accurate pest identification. Identifying the pest correctly isn’t just a box to check; it’s the cornerstone of effective, efficient and responsible pest control. Without this critical step, even the most advanced treatment plans can fall flat, leading to wasted resources and dissatisfied customers. Treatment always should begin with understanding the pest you are dealing with. Each pest species has unique behaviors and habitats.
The Pest Posse: Pest Control Sales Authority
Pest Management Professional columnist Foster Brusca, “head wrangler” at The Pest Posse and a renowned sales expert, announces the launch of the Pest Control Sales Authority. This new resource, online at PestPosseSales.com/pcsa, is designed to help pest management professionals (PMPs) elevate their sales game, overcome challenges and achieve success.
Make learning and collaborating a 2025 goal
As the new year begins, pest management professionals (PMPs) will likely reflect on the past year and set goals for 2025. However, establishing clear, actionable objectives is more than just an annual tradition. It is a proven strategy for personal and professional growth. One difficulty in achieving those goals is the need for continuous learning and collaboration, especially in an industry that evolves as quickly as pest control. Continuous training is a cornerstone of success in pest management.
The Pest Posse Roundup: How to master employee onboarding
In a recent Pest Posse TV interview, I sat down with human resources expert Maria Berta of Berta Consulting Group, Pleasant Hill, Calif., to discuss the importance of a solid employee onboarding process. Whether you have two employees or 200, onboarding isn’t just a legal formality — it’s vital for setting up your team and business for long-term success.
Industry pros share tips to help technicians one day move into a management role | Pest Management Professional
We asked Pest Management Professional’s columnists and editorial advisory board members to share what a technician should do now to one day move into a management role. Here are some of their responses from our October 2024 print edition. Greg Baumann: “Think carefully and decide whether you like being a technician, which is a respected role in itself. Only go into management if you feel you can lead others to provide the same service you provide.
Brush up on bed bug biology, behavior | Pest Management Professional
Dehydration is the greatest natural threat to bed bugs’ survival while living indoors because bloodmeals are their only source of hydration. One reason bed bugs pack themselves tightly into small cracks and crevices is so they can maintain a microhabitat of favorable temperature and humidity, increasing their ability to survive periods of starvation.
The Pest Posse Roundup: How to blend family, focus and flexibility | Pest Management Professional
During a recent episode of Pest Posse TV, I sat down with Scarlett Nolen, president of Tucson, Ariz.-based Truly Nolen and an online columnist for Pest Management Professional magazine, to discuss what it’s like working in and leading a family-owned pest control company. Our conversation offered valuable insights that small to medium-sized pest control companies can leverage to grow and succeed.
The Pest Posse Roundup: Integrate environmental responsibility into your program | Pest Management Professional
In today’s environmentally conscious world, green pest management has become a vital aspect of the pest control industry. As we delve into this topic, it’s essential to first understand the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) green guidelines and how they influence advertising practices within the industry. The guidelines ensure any claims of products or services being green or environmentally friendly are truthful and provable.
The Pest Posse Roundup: An in-house entomology department offers many benefits | Pest Management Professional
In a recent discussion on the importance of establishing an in-house entomology department, Andy Sanefski, PCQI, founder of Perimetek Pest Management in Syracuse, N.Y., shared some enlightening insights. With more than 16 years in commercial pest management, Sanefski has seen firsthand how the industry has evolved. His dedication to advancing the industry is evident in the development of his company’s urban entomology lab, a move that promises to raise the industry bar for training and service.
What is your favorite tip for technician training? | Pest Management Professional
Photo: vm/iStock / Getty Images Plus/Getty Images It’s the busy season, there are fires to put out, but you know you can’t skip training — it’s a short-term shortcut that will hurt your company in the long term. With that in mind, what’s a training strategy that you’ve implemented successfully that your colleagues can try out with their teams?
How to manage dogs during a service call | Pest Management Professional
Managing interactions with dogs at customers’ houses is crucial for both safety and performing pest control services effectively. Despite the prevalence of dogs in households, many technicians lack formal training on how to handle these interactions. On a recent episode of Pest Posse TV, Pepe Peruyero, owner of PepeDogs: J&K Canine Academy and a seasoned dog trainer and behaviorist, helped shed light on the intricacies of dog behavior.
The Pest Posse Roundup: Elevating professionalism in pest control
Professionalism in the pest control industry stands as the bedrock of trust and reliability, yet it often remains a topic overlooked in discussions. During a recent live episode on Pest Posse TV, however, I had the opportunity to explore this vital topic in depth with a distinguished panel comprised of industry veterans who exemplify professionalism in their endeavors. Our discussion shed light on various dimensions of professionalism.
Mitigate risks of fly infestations & prevent food safety violations
Zoëcon Flies of various species are notorious vectors for more than 100 pathogens, posing significant risks to food safety and public health. With rising temperatures and increased rainfall in many regions, PMPs can expect to see a surge in fly-related issues. To effectively combat fly problems, implement targeted strategies to identify and eliminate breeding grounds.
Look for original breeding sites of house flies
MGK While many pest problems arise on-site, house flies and several other fly species can fly long distances; their original breeding sites can go unnoticed if you only inspect the on-site area. A livestock facility, dumpster, dog park, junkyard or other breeding source could be nearby, but hidden from view with only a line-of-sight inspection. Google Maps can be a huge help in finding nearby potential sources.
The Pest Posse Roundup: Elevating professionalism in pest control
Professionalism in the pest control industry stands as the bedrock of trust and reliability, yet it often remains a topic overlooked in discussions. During a recent live episode on Pest Posse TV, however, I had the opportunity to explore this vital topic in depth with a distinguished panel comprised of industry veterans who exemplify professionalism in their endeavors. Our discussion shed light on various dimensions of professionalism.
Questions linger from the 2023 tax season
The crew at PCO Bookkeepers has completed another tax preparation season, preparing more than 1,700 income tax returns and other related returns for our client companies and owners. They prepared more than 7,500 1099 forms and more than 200 state tangible returns. All this work has given some insight into income, tax liabilities and attitudes toward taxes. Here are a few common questions raised by clients this year: What is the due date for tax returns that have been put on extension?
‘Seek out the source’ of outdoor fly infestations
BASF When facing outdoor fly infestations, the SOS Principle — “Seek Out the Source” — becomes crucial. While trash management and other sanitation practices can temporarily tackle the issue, unless you get to the source, control may be difficult, if not impossible. House flies in particular present a significant challenge to public health pest management, as they can travel an average of one to two miles, potentially crossing property boundaries.
Virtual educational series covers pest control sales strategies
A virtual training course covering pest control sales and offering personalized feedback is designed to elevate success, whether attendees are seasoned professionals or just starting out. The Pest Control Sales Masterclass is an intensive six-week virtual training course featuring proven sales strategies tailored specifically to the pest management industry. Interactive sessions are aimed at honing sales skills and addressing real-world challenges.
Put safety first in fleet management
In a world where our roads are often fraught with distractions, the imperative of safety in fleet management has never been more paramount. Recently, Culley Christensen and I co-hosted a Pest Posse TV livestream to dissect the pressing issue of distracted driving, unearthing its profound implications on road safety. We were joined by guest Erin Gilchrist, vice president of “fleet evangelism” at IntelliShift, a Commack, N.Y.-based fleet management software provider.
The Pest Posse debuts new podcast series on business growth
The Pest Posse has partnered with R.V. There Yet Pest Consulting to unveil a monthly podcast series titled “The Pest Posse Perspective.” Scheduled for release on the third Thursday of each month, this series is crafted to propel businesses to unprecedented heights within the pest control industry. The inaugural episode of “The Pest Posse Perspective” premiered on April 18.
Truly Nolen promotes 3 employees
Truly Nolen Pest Control recently announced the promotion of three employees in Florida and Texas. George Guerra was promoted to business manager for Miami-Dade and Monroe counties in Florida. When not in the field, he will be based at the company’s Central Miami service office. Guerra joined the company in February 2018 and has been a service office manager in multiple South Florida locations.
Educate customers to prevent stinging insects
Preventing stinging insects from nesting on or around your customer’s home is an important first step to management. Educate customers about measures such as: Covering trash cans with tight lids. Covering drinks, food and pet food. Keeping shrubs and trees trimmed. Eliminating standing water. Caulking or sealing possible exterior entry points. Painting or sealing untreated wood. Storing firewood away from the structure.
Inspect for stinging insect control
Inspection is key to stinging insect control. Conduct a thorough inspection of the property to identify potential nesting sites and entry points for stinging insects such as wasps, bees and hornets. If nests are found, safely remove them to eliminate the immediate threat and prevent the insects from returning. One vital step is sealing off cracks, crevices and gaps in structures to prevent stinging insects from entering and establishing nests indoors.
Assessment tests can help you hire
Assessment tests have emerged as a powerful tool for employers seeking the perfect hires for their teams. Gone are the days of relying solely on resumes and interviews; now, companies are delving deeper into the intricacies of the human brain to make informed hiring decisions. The concept of understanding the three parts of the brain — cognitive, affective and conative — can revolutionize your approach to finding the right candidates. 1.
WIPC hosts another outstanding conference
This year, The Pest Posse concluded its Women in Pest Control Recognition Series with a twist: Instead of honoring an individual, we chose to recognize an entire industry conference dedicated to women. The Women in Pest Control (WIPC) Conference took place Feb. 29 and March 1, in Austin, Texas. It was supported by diamond sponsor AAC Distributing and platinum sponsors FieldRoutes and Pest Daily, alongside other suppliers showcased in the expo hall.
Terminix partners with United Soccer League
Terminix, a Rentokil Terminix company, announced a multi-year partnership with the United Soccer League (USL), the largest professional soccer league in North America. The sponsorship will cover multiple leagues within the USL organization, including the USL Championship, USL League One, USL League Two, USL W League, USL Youth and USL Academy.
WIPC adds public Facebook page, announces 2025 conference
Women In Pest Control (WIPC) recently launched a public Facebook page to keep all industry partners up to date on what is happening within the organization. The Facebook page, which will be in addition to the WIPC’s original private group page, will include updates on dates, locations and sponsorship opportunities for upcoming conferences. To that end, the group has announced its 2025 conference dates: March 6-7, 2025, with location to be announced.
Identify cockroaches through IPM
As a former technician, I’ve encountered numerous instances of active cockroach infestations within residential settings. Addressing such issues requires a systematic approach. Identification is the first crucial step in an integrated pest management (IPM) strategy. Through meticulous monitoring, document both live and dead cockroaches, as well as the presence of fecal matter. This sets a threshold for your action plan, so you can then move on to treatment and prevention.
Dusts contributing to cockroach control
Dusts can be excellent tools for cockroach control. Both boric acid and silica dusts, for example, are odorless and non-repellent and will not interfere with baits. Boric acid is the best option in damp areas like commercial kitchens and needs to be ingested to kill. Self-grooming insects such as cockroaches pick up the dust when walking through it and ingest it when grooming. Boric acid dust that is super-fine milled will stick to insects.
Using abamectin for pest control
Abamectin is a unique active ingredient, despite being a long-standing tool in pest management. Derived from a soil microorganism (Streptomyces avermitilis), it functions as a broad-spectrum nerve toxin. When formulated into dry flowable bait, it can reduce exposure to non-target insects. As a dry flowable bait, abamectin can be effective against ants, cockroaches and other crawling insects. The beauty of the formulation is that it allows the product to penetrate deep harborage sites.
Marketing blueprint helps guide growth
To set yourself up for success in 2024, you need a plan. On a recent Pest Posse TV live stream — a monthly segment I host with The Pest Posse Co-owner Culley Christensen — guest Casey Lewis, CEO of Rhino Digital Media, discussed a marketing plan spreadsheet he developed specifically for pest control companies. This spreadsheet serves as a comprehensive blueprint for both the marketing agency and the pest control company, facilitating the clarification of goals, strategies and budget allocation.
Pest Posse TV launches Road to Success Giveaway
Pest Posse TV recently launched the Pest Posse TV Road to Success Giveaway, designed to reward its members while helping them expand its community. The giveaway officially kicks off on March 5, 2024, but members can start submitting entries today. Entries submitted between now and March 5, 2024, will be doubled, giving entrants even more chances to win. The Pest Posse TV Road to Success Giveaway centers around one key element: new member referrals.
IoT and the Industry
For decades, many pest management professionals (PMPs) have been keeping structures sound and customers safe by eliminating pest infestations without the aid of internet-powered remote technology. A bright flashlight, a strong magnifying glass and a reputable resource manual of pest species were among the most important tools in most PMPs’ toolboxes. Over the past 30 years, however, technological advances in the pest control industry have allowed PMPs to embrace change.
Industry suppliers discuss IoT
With consumers and employees alike becoming more comfortable with Internet of Things (IoT) components in their alarm clocks, coffeemakers, doorbells, vehicles and more, Pest Management Professional (PMP) brought the following five suppliers into a “virtual roundtable,” to see how the pest control industry is harnessing this technology: Sensing Technologies (BST), Madison, Wis.
Push for state-level pesticide preemption continues
Hopes remains high that pesticide preemption will be included in the next Farm Bill, a package of legislation primarily related to agriculture, food and farming. A new Farm Bill is enacted every five years, but that’s not what happened when the latest version, titled the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, was set to expire in September 2023. Instead, on Nov.
Ensure your techs know the rules of the road
In the world of pest control, where nimbleness and precision are paramount, the role of the service technician extends beyond the expertise in handling pests. This was vividly illuminated in the recent Pest Posse TV live stream I held with my Pest Posse Co-Owner Culley Christensen. Our January episode took an unconventional turn by featuring Erin Gilchrist, VP of Fleet Evangelism(!) at IntelliShift, a Commack, N.Y.-based fleet management software provider.
5 questions with Sam Barry
This month, we check in with Sam Barry, marketing director of Triangle Pest Control. In January, the Raleigh, N.C.-based company launched its Triangle Cares outreach program. 1. What was the impetus behind Triangle Cares? We started this program because our owner, Donnie Shelton, is so passionate about the local community and showing them that we care. Our core values are Growth, Ownership, Respect, Integrity, Service and Excellence (GO RISE), and we show that in everything we do.
Know Thy Enemy | Pest Management Professional
As their common name implies, pavement ants are commonly found in urban areas, particularly on sidewalks and pavements. There are 10 species in the Tetramorium caespitum complex, which until 2017 was the only scientific name for pavement ants overall. Today, the pavement ant species found in North America is classified as the subspecies T. immigrans, while the other nine species are primarily confined to Europe (Wagner et al, 2017). It’s this subspecies on which this article will focus.
On the Job | Pest Management Professional
Late last year, Denver, Colo.-based Whitmore Pest and Wildlife Control purchased a cutting-edge, climate-controlled insulation blower trailer. Co-owner Marvin Christner says this new trailer “allows us to protect our team from extreme weather conditions, ensuring they can work happily and efficiently year-round.” The trailer it replaced now hauls company equipment only.
Do your homework before terminating employees
Pest Posse TV was created as a dedicated online platform and community to serve and empower pest management professionals (PMPs). It offers an extensive array of resources, continuous training, and a community page tailored specifically for the professional pest control industry.
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