A Word From Our Sponsor: Navigating the Demands for Better Pay and Benefits

Since 2015, BASF has been proud to sponsor an annual survey, in cooperation with the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) and PCT magazine, devoted to addressing key issues of importance to the pest control industry. These research studies have included “Benchmarking Your Business,” “Tracking Job Satisfaction” and “Gen Next.” All of these topics support BASF’s ongoing efforts to be good stewards of the pest management industry.

In 2019 the issue of “Workplace Diversity” was addressed in a first-of-its-kind survey that has proven beneficial in the ongoing work of NPMA’s Diversity Council. Last year, the “Gen Next” survey discussed the topic of effectively managing a multi-generational workforce. In addition to assessing age differences in leadership, the research explored strategies for business owners to attract and develop young talent, as well as how to get employees to stay with companies longer and how to weather the disruption when they leave.

This year’s research focuses on the central role wages, benefits and compensation packages play in today’s challenging job market and changes in attitudes towards work in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The new survey seeks to understand the difficulties owners and managers are facing in recruiting, retaining and rewarding employees with financial incentives.

Not surprisingly, wages still dominate employees’ decision-making on whether to seek a new opportunity or remain with a company, but what other factors are important to consider? How much sway do benefits packages, paid time-off and work flexibility hold? Do certain benefits appeal to employees in different life stages? The articles on the following pages cover a wide range of these topics with never-before-seen data.

While the pest management job market is more stressful than ever, it is prompting all employers to reevaluate and reimagine how to best compensate their staff and gain competitive advantages in hiring and retention. Pest control business owners who recognize that people are their most valuable company asset are diligently trying to find creative ways to provide attractive pay and benefits. Indeed, this task is complex and requires taking stock of the entire organization to identify any operational inefficiencies and areas that can be streamlined — but ultimately, this journey will help you emerge as a stronger business with more satisfied employees and customers.

The big takeaways? The job market is changing rapidly and putting more pressure on pest control companies to rethink pay, medical and retirement benefits, vacation time and overall compensation packages. Ignoring this seismic shift isn’t an option, so it’s critical to do whatever you can now to remain profitable while shaping a more desirable workplace for pest management professionals moving forward. Keep in mind that when employees are satisfied with their jobs, it consistently results in higher productivity, better customer service and loyalty to the company!

At BASF, we believe the best way to build a better future for your company is to turn today’s challenges into opportunities. Now may be the time to review your compensation structure and to determine if changes in pay or benefits are needed. This is a moment to solidify a more stable foundation with loyal employees, who are essential to succeeding through the ups and downs of the economy.

We hope you find the information featured in this special report beneficial to your business. And we wish you nothing but the best in 2022!

Derek Miller

National Sales Manager

BASF Professional & Specialty Solutions