Cleankill Pest Control’s Technical and Training Manager Chris Davis has been asked by Killgerm’s Matthew Davies to present a joint seminar entitled ‘An on-the-ground view of pest control staff training – challenges and successes’ at PestEx 2022.
The session will summarise the reasons why all organisations would benefit from a full, well organised training programme for new recruits. Matthew will begin with a review of Killgerm’s approach to training and development before Chris outlines a better way to induct, train and develop new pest control technicians.
The decision to focus on training follows many years of interviewing candidates with previous industry experience.
Chris explains: “I’ve interviewed many candidates over the years and it has become clear there is a massive disparity in the quality of training new recruits are receiving. Of course, some candidates are receiving what we would consider to be appropriate levels of training but, all too often, supposedly experienced candidates have received barely any training.”
The seminar offers advice on structuring a good training programme for new starters. This should include a comprehensive overview that encompasses everything from what a candidate should bring with them on their first day to selecting the right staff to carry out their in-the-field training.
Chris added: ““This isn’t just a problem that Cleankill faces when recruiting, it is a problem for the whole pest control industry. There have always been companies that do training well, but there needs to be greater consistency across the sector. We need to make sure that knowledge and experience are properly passed on so that others in the industry can train and develop staff to a high standard of professionalism and technical competency.
“You never forget your first week in pest control. If everybody in the industry involved in staff recruitment and training makes sure the first experience for a new recruit is positive, it can only benefit and raise the profile of the industry.”
Among his many roles at Cleankill, Chris oversees staff training and development. In 2017, he received the Charles Keeble Award at the British Pest Management Awards in recognition of his outstanding commitment and performance in training and development.
PestEx is the UK’s largest pest control exhibition. It takes place over two days (16-17th March) at ExCel London. Chris’ seminar will be on day 2 at midday in the Spotlight Theatre.
Now employing 50 staff, Cleankill Pest Control offers eradication and preventative services for all public health pests, including: mice; rats; cockroaches; wasps; fleas; squirrels and pest birds. As a registered waste carrier, Cleankill can also remove pigeon debris and other waste.
With offices in Surrey, East Sussex, Bristol and Buckinghamshire, Cleankill has many customers throughout London, Surrey, Sussex, the Home Counties, Bristol, Gloucestershire and Somerset.
ENDS
For more information, contact Suzi Christie 07590 591140 or e-mail suzi@blueberry-pr.co.uk