1) Why did you decided to start a pest control business?
I believe pest control choose me. Pest control has been in my family for over the past 41 years. In my professional and academic career, I acquired many skill sets with the mind frame of using them to further my employer and clients’ professional endeavours. Four years ago, I decided to bet on myself and pour all my skills into my family’s pest control trade to build a legacy.
2) How did your background as a professor help you with your business?
My professor background gave me a blueprint of endless information to help me start and grow my business. In the beginning, I’ve had to do very little outsourcing because of my education and professional career. I’m able to consult myself and become a client to many of the projects I completed before starting my company. I have mentors and professional development routines that continue to help me thrive. Additionally, being a professor has allowed me to quickly break down information that is beneficial to my company and separate it from that which is not.
3) People are probably surprised to see you show up when they call for an exterminator. How is it different for female in your industry than males?
I love the support I receive from people when I put on my PPE gear, knees pads, and pull out my flashlight and start a pest control inspection or job. They’re amazed and shocked to see a woman getting rid of bugs, bedbugs, mice, etc. While it is exciting to them, is also a question of whether I can indeed carry out the job like my fellow male exterminators or run a successful pest control company like my male counterparts. It’s a daily challenge.
4) What goals do you have for your business in the next five years? How have you been able to continue to grow your business?
I am incredibly grateful for the growth and sustainability we have been able to maintain at my company. In the next five years, we project to have more locations, new products services in every neighbourhood for customers to have quality pest control services, and retail stores right in their communities.
5) Who are three people that inspire you and why?
My mother, father, and the general family are the source of my inspiration. My mother and father introduced this trade to our family 41 years ago, and with them and their support still, pest control would not have been an option. My husband and daughters, who allow me to wear this entrepreneur hat with full love and support unapologetically, are the greatest inspiration! My tribe is everything to me.
6) You are from Chicago, why is it essential for you to give back to your community and provide jobs to people from your community?
I am a true Chi-town native-born and raised, and I love my city. So, I represent Chicago and the people who live here. I get a chance to be part of the solution each time, and I hire a person and introduce this trade to someone. This is what this city did for my dad, and he did it for me; it is my duty to pay it forward. Chicagoans are resilient people!
7) What advice would you share with other young entrepreneurs starting a new business?
Don’t waste another second on doubt, logo colours, and what business entity to choose. Just get started, and all your questions, fear and doubt will work itself out along the way! Just leap and create your vision brick by brick, and God is the ultimate counsel.