[Encouraging Teamwork] When being a goose is good

Everyone wants to be successful. I also believe everyone wants to work in a successful business, one that is different, and one that reflects quality, exceptional customer service and professionalism.

Since the pursuit of success as an individual and business is related, common efforts to attain success should be shared by everyone. If there’s an area needing improvement within a district or branch office, it’s everybody’s business.

We all recognize the importance of teamwork. Or do we?

A TEAM APPROACH. Since I live near a wildlife refuge, I often notice the many flocks of geese in the area. Usually I see them flying in their traditional “V” formation. I am reminded of an article I read explaining that engineers determined that each bird, by flapping its wings, creates uplift for the bird that follows. Together, the whole flock gains approximately 70 percent greater flying range than a bird flying alone.

The benefits of teamwork apply to any organization, and especially to a pest control business. When we combine efforts, we accomplish a lot more, plus the quality of the work increases compared to everyone going in different directions.

Whether you’re a salesperson or a service technician, you are not an island. The job you do affects someone else:

• Quality sales have an impact on route completion rates, service quality and employee turnover.
• Quality service increases sales and reduces turnover in the sales department.
• Quality inspections before the sale increases sales closing percentages and ensures the technician is prepared before he or she starts the job, resulting in increased customer satisfaction and increased sales.

These are just a few examples of how to improve business.

Teamwork in each pest control office means realizing that sales concerns are service concerns. Service concerns are sales concerns. Cutting corners negatively affects the team.

Star quarterbacks can’t win games without the protection of a strong offensive line. An exceptional baseball pitcher is worthless without a good catcher. The best salesperson can’t consistently sell without a quality product or service. The most experienced, best-trained technician would have no customers without sales.

The author is vice president of sales and service for Cook’s Pest Control, Decatur, Ala.