Ultimate Pest Control is now 5 years old. As of the 9th of June 2022. Over the past five years, Ultimate has gone from a one-man band to having 5 technicians on the road. And has expanded from Dublin into Kildare, Wicklow, Wexford, Louth and Meath. Our growth has been phenomenal. Although, it hasn’t happened overnight. And it hasn’t come without trial and error. Running a business is a minefield. And as the Company turns 5, it is a good time to reflect on the top 5 lessons learned in the last 5 years.
1. Stop Analyzing and Take Action
Starting a business is a huge leap. And of course, there is a lot to consider. Planning is crucial. However, don’t overthink to the point of analysis paralysis. Make a plan and then take action. Stop thinking about the what if’s. Put yourself out there, make the investment, or launch the business. Apply this lesson to any big life decision. Not just business. Procrastination is easy. As it feels safe to avoid taking action. Consequently, inaction helps avoid the feeling of fear or failure. However, allowing an analytical mind to stop you from taking action is failing.
2. Get Clear on Core Values
Company core values are a set of guiding principles that help businesses work towards a common goal. It is crucial to have a clear and concise set of values. It allows everyone to be on the same page. Consequently, making it easier to run the business. Ultimate Pest Control has two core values. The first is to provide unrivalled solutions and services to every customer. Ultimate Pest Control exists for our customers. Therefore, aligning every process, person, service and system in our Company to that value resulted in our success.
3. Work Culture Matters
I’m sure everyone has worked for at least one company that undervalues the staff. It is a toxic environment to work in. And more often than not leads to high staff turn over. Maintaining employee morale is our second core value. UPC provides a happy, proactive and supportive workplace. We only hire motivated and passionate individuals. Therefore, they are happy and aligned with our value system. Consequently, the business thrives.
4. Delegation is Crucial
Running a business is all-consuming. Therefore, it is easy to try and do everything. However, it is not feasible to do it all. Firstly, nobody is capable of doing it all. There are simply not enough hours in the day. And secondly, taking on too much can and will lead to burnout. Consequently, resulting in you having no choice but to stop. Delegation is essential if you want to succeed. Nobody is saying to completely hand over the reins. But delegate some tasks. Especially things you aren’t very good at. Or don’t enjoy doing.
5. Business Lessons Don’t Come From Books
Reading is great, and of course, books can teach us a lot. However, it is more potent to learn by doing. Every lesson listed has come from trial and error. Trying again and failing again. Making mistakes and making amends. In business, nobody has the answer but you. Trust yourself to know what to do. And know that you can course-correct if needs be.
So there you have it. The five most important lessons learned in the past five years. Here’s to the next five!
