[Viewpoint] Take Time To Recognize

In our pressed-for-time society it is easy to become so focused on our daily activities that we don’t take the time to recognize the achievements of others.

But employee recognition is an important human resource function of all successful businesses. That’s because in addition to competitive wages, benefits and other perks, it is important to reinforce to employees that they are a critical component of a successful team.

Throughout the years, PCT has profiled numerous successful pest control companies. A common thread among these companies is that they all have some type of program to honor standout employees such as technician of the year, office person of the year, most improved employee, high achiever, etc.

Many of these companies honor their outstanding employees by posting their pictures on a bulletin board or running an announcement in the company newsletter. Employers also may provide these individuals with perks such as cash bonuses or gift certificates. These are simple gestures that go a long way towards keeping employees happier, thus strengthening the team. In addition to providing an individual perk, company awards can create friendly competition among other workers, who will raise their performance level as they strive for such honors.

A recent trend among some pest control companies is to add a position of master technician. This job usually requires more training and it gives technicians important additional responsibilities, but it also usually comes with a pay increase. Perhaps of equal value, it is another way to recognize technicians for past performance and company contributions.

Another way pest control companies have been honoring their standout technicians is through their participation in the annual PCT/Syngenta Professional Products Technician of the Year Awards program.

Each year PCT receives dozens of nominations providing details of technicians who go "above and beyond." From the nominating process we’ve learned of technicians who have worked on incredibly challenging accounts; embraced and implemented new technology; put in extra hours when needed; served as mentors to new technicians; and befriended elderly customers. And these are just a few examples.

This year’s winners — Larry Williams, A-Active Termite & Pest Control, Virginia Beach, Va. (residential); Ron Evans, J.C. Ehrlich, Avenal, N.J. (commercial); and Kevin McDonald, Orkin Pest Control, Clearwater, Fla. (termite) — are no exception. As you’ll read, each of these technicians regularly exceeds customer service expectations.

Sadly, one of this year’s winners, Ron Evans, will be honored posthumously. Ron passed away in his sleep just prior to this issue being published. PCT would like to salute Ron for 22 years of standout service to the pest control industry and we extend our condolences to Ron’s family and friends.

The author is Internet Editor of PCT Online.