In this episode of Pest Perspectives, Shaun Muller interviews John Sage, who shares his extensive career journey from engineering to pest control. John discusses his early career in the British Merchant Navy, his transition into pest control, and his experiences with the Pest Force franchise. He also delves into the importance of drainage work, the challenges faced in drain surveys, and the opportunities available in the pest control industry. The conversation highlights John's expertise and insights into the pest control business, emphasizing the potential for growth and success in this field. In this conversation, Shaun Muller and John Sage discuss various aspects of repairs and pest control, focusing on the challenges faced in these industries, the importance of understanding true costs, and the perception of value in services. They also delve into training standards for pest control, the significance of practical experience, and the regulations surrounding firearms training for pest controllers. John shares insights on setting up a pest control education group and the complexities involved in firearm certification. In this segment of the conversation, Shaun Muller and John Sage delve into various aspects of pest control, including the challenges of business growth, the intricacies of dealing with rats, and the importance of investigation techniques. They discuss the evolution of pest control tools and technology, emphasizing the need for continuous professional development (CPD) in the industry. The conversation highlights the balance between cost and effectiveness in pest management, as well as the significance of embracing new technologies to enhance service delivery. In this engaging conversation, Shaun Muller and John Sage delve into the world of pest control, discussing the importance of continuing professional development, the professionalism of the industry, and the value of customer service. They share insights on how aspiring professionals can navigate their careers, the significance of transparency in service, and the need to set oneself apart in a competitive market. The discussion also touches on the importance of valuing one's services and the potential for future industry developments.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background of John Sage

06:03 Involvement in Pest Control and Training

11:57 Drainage Work and Surveys

14:57 Challenges in Drain Surveys and Pest Control

18:03 Opportunities in Drainage and Pest Control

21:03 Conclusion and Future Plans

21:44 The Challenges of Plumbing Repairs

22:49 Understanding the Pest Control Industry

24:00 The Importance of Knowing True Costs

26:12 Value Perception in Pest Control

28:06 Training Standards in Pest Control

30:07 The Role of Practical Experience in Training

32:17 The Importance of Practical Knowledge

33:21 Firearms Training for Pest Controllers

35:00 Regulations Surrounding Firearm Use

39:06 Navigating Firearm Certification

44:42 Setting Up a Pest Control Education Group

46:47 Navigating Business Growth and Employment Risks

48:36 The Art of Pest Control: Understanding Rats

51:13 Investigation Techniques in Pest Control

52:32 Innovative Tools and Technology in Pest Control

56:46 The Evolution of Pest Control Traps

01:01:00 The Role of Technology in Pest Control

01:04:35 The Importance of Continuous Professional Development (CPD) in Pest Control

01:11:36 The Ease of Continuing Professional Development

01:14:12 Advice for Aspiring Pest Control Professionals

01:15:02 The Professionalism of Pest Control

01:17:08 Setting Yourself Apart in Pest Control

01:20:09 Customer Trust and Service Quality

01:22:20 The Importance of Transparency in Service

01:30:30 Valuing Your Services

01:34:50 Future Guests and Industry Insights