Q1:Kindly give our readers an introduction to your business. Please include what your business is all about, in which city you are located and if you have offices in multiple locations/ cities.
Ans: James: Welcome to our local, veteran-owned pest control service. Our expertise extends across Lee, Charlotte, Hendry, Glades, and Collier counties, catering to residential and commercial pest control needs. For termite concerns, our coverage encompasses the entire state of Florida.
We provide flexible scheduling options, offering monthly, bi-monthly, and quarterly pest control services. Based in Fort Myers, Florida, our mission revolves around delivering top-notch pest control solutions to the valued residents of Southwest Florida.
Q2: Kindly give us a brief description about yourself (it should include your brief educational or entrepreneurial background and list some of your major achievements).
Ans: James: My journey in the pest control industry began in 2007. Hailing from Fort Myers, I graduated from Naples High School before venturing into the military, where I spent four impactful years. Upon my military service, I transitioned to the Department of Corrections, eventually finding my niche in the pest control field. This journey led me to establish my own business. Before this endeavor, I gained experience by managing pest control companies of varying scales, with revenues ranging from $150,000 to $3 million annually.
Brittany: What sets James apart is his multifaceted experience. He has immersed himself in various aspects of the pest control landscape, from sales to educating fellow industry members on product applications tailored to specific pest control needs. His journey also encompasses management roles, culminating in the operation of his own business.
As for myself, I’m deeply rooted in Fort Myers, having spent my entire life here. Professionally, I’m a registered nurse and contribute to the operational aspects of our business behind the scenes, supporting James in various capacities.
Q3: What inspired you to (start a new business venture) or (to make significant changes in an existing business)? How did the idea for your business come about?
Ans: The start of Florida Solutions came from a strong desire to balance work and family. It all began when I worked at another pest control company, putting in 80 to 100 hours a week. This left me with very little time for my family. I wanted more time with them.
I talked to the company’s owner about this, and he offered me more money to stay. But I wanted more time, and it became clear that I wouldn’t get that there. So, I decided to start my own business. At first, I wanted to keep things small and build slowly.
However, things turned out differently—God’s plans were definitely bigger than mine. Blessings and challenges came along, shaping my journey. Every step brought new opportunities and difficulties that I learned from.
Throughout this transformation, my wife and children stood by me. Their support and encouragement kept me going. The idea for Florida Solutions was rooted in wanting more time with my family. Through unexpected twists and turns, it has grown into a story of hard work, growth, and the importance of family.
Q4: What three pieces of advice would you give to budding entrepreneurs?
Ans: 1.- Persistence is key. The path to success often requires hard work and dedication. Don’t give up when challenges arise.
floridasolutionspest.com
2.-Uphold integrity. Make the right choices even when no one is watching – it might be tough, but it’s essential.
3.-Believe in yourself. Self-confidence can carry you through difficult times. You have the capability to achieve your goals.
Brittany:
1.- Recognize your value. Your skills and expertise have worth. Don’t undersell yourself; people will pay for quality.
2.- Set clear boundaries. Knowing your limits and sticking to them can help maintain a healthy work-life balance.
3.- Engage a trusted accountant. Having solid financial guidance ensures you’re making informed decisions for your business’s prosperity.
Q5: What would you say are the top three skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur?
Ans: 1.- Adaptability and Pivoting: Flexibility is crucial. What you initially envision might not align with industry demands. Be open to pivoting and expanding your horizons to seize unforeseen opportunities.
2.- Vision Beyond Limits: While starting small is great, maintaining a broader perspective is essential. Stay open to unexpected growth and challenges that can reshape your journey.
3.- Continuous Learning: Industries evolve, and so should you. Keep learning about your field, your competitors, and emerging trends. This knowledge empowers you to make informed decisions.
Brittany:
1.-Networking and Collaboration: Building connections through platforms like BNI (Business Network International) can provide valuable insights, partnerships, and referrals.
2.- Seeking Support: Don’t hesitate to ask for guidance. Seek advice from mentors, experts, or even your peers. It’s a sign of strength, not weakness.
3.- Competition as Allies: Instead of seeing competitors solely as rivals, consider them potential allies. Collaborations and partnerships can strengthen both sides and lead to mutual growth.
Q6: How many hours do you work a day on average?
Ans:
James:
On an average day, I typically dedicate about 10 to 12 hours of work. While the formal tasks may consume around 8 to 9 hours, my mind remains engaged even beyond those hours. I find myself continuously thinking, planning, and strategizing. Ideas emerge, whether it’s about future plans, potential marketing approaches, new services, or tackling unexpected challenges. Research is a constant, from new insect insights to innovative treatment methods or equipment development. Even if I’m not physically working, I’m always open to learning and staying up-to-date.
Brittany:
In my case, I contribute a few hours in the evening on top of my nursing responsibilities. It’s a balancing act that complements my nursing role while contributing to the operational aspects of our business.
Q7: To what do you most attribute your success?
Ans:
James:
My success primarily stems from my faith in God, and closely following that, the unwavering support of my wife. Her encouragement and presence have been pivotal in shaping the path to success.
Brittany:
We’ve been truly blessed in our journey towards success, and much of that credit goes to James’ exceptional work ethic. While he playfully mentions me pushing him, the truth is he possesses one of the most robust work ethics I’ve ever encountered. His dedication and commitment have undeniably been driving forces behind our achievements.
Q8: How do you go about marketing your business? What has been your most successful form of marketing?
Ans: A significant part of my work involves collaborating with around 9 to 10 other pest control companies. My background is influenced by my tenure at Univard USA, now known as Desairs, a chemical distributor. During my time there, I had the opportunity to connect with various local mom-and-pop shop owners, regional managers, and branch managers of larger corporations. When I ventured into my own business, I started by simply reaching out to these acquaintances, inquiring about their experiences and seeking their insights.
My journey took an unexpected turn when a friend who owned a pest control company, lacking termite services, reached out to me for assistance. I completed the task successfully, and from there, word spread within the network. Soon, I was collaborating with multiple companies, offering termite services. This network has grown to encompass 9 to 10 companies, some of which consistently provide me with termite jobs. They trust my expertise and recommend my services when opportunities arise.
The reason we’re able to secure a substantial number of jobs is because of these recommendations. When clients receive endorsements from companies they already trust, it creates a sense of reliability and authenticity. Referrals and word-of-mouth recommendations hold significant weight in our industry.
In our pursuit of business growth, we’ve experimented with various strategies such as Home Advisor, magazine ads, and Google Ads. While some of these initiatives haven’t yielded the desired results, our success story remains largely intertwined with the power of connections and recommendations.
Q9: Where did your organizations funding/capital come from and how did you go about getting it? How did you obtain investors for your venture?
Ans: From the start, our organization’s funding came from our personal savings. When we initiated the company, I allocated $15,000 from our savings to launch the venture, viewing it as an investment in our idea. This initial amount saw us through from the inception phase to securing our first customer, during which approximately $12,000 was expended.
As we gained traction and engaged more customers during the early stages, there were occasions when we needed to inject additional capital to bridge the gap between delivering our services and receiving payments. These injections typically amounted to $3,000 to $4,000 each time.
The remarkable aspect is that our company has remained entirely self-funded since its inception. We’ve sustained our growth and operations without external investors, relying solely on our internal resources and determination.
Q10: What is the best way to achieve long-term success?
Ans: The key to attaining enduring success lies in a simple principle: spend less money than you earn. This fundamental financial balance serves as the yardstick for success. The concept of success, however, can vary depending on your aspirations. If maintaining our current scale is our goal, then that in itself can be considered a triumph. The definition of success remains flexible.
While we’re on a journey towards achieving our fullest potential, I’m enthusiastic about the prospect of reaching that milestone. At present, we are progressively advancing towards our objectives. To secure a prosperous trajectory over the long haul, it’s crucial to center your efforts on serving your customers diligently. By nurturing these relationships and providing exceptional care, you’ll naturally find reciprocation in the form of customer loyalty.
Brittany underscores a valuable point: longevity in success is gauged by the loyalty of your customers. The clients who continuously engage with your services year after year and actively recommend your business to others amplify your credibility. The bedrock of your reputation is built upon reliability and trustworthiness. Placing the customer at the heart of your operations while consistently delivering top-notch service paves the way for sustained prosperity.
Q11: Where do you see yourself and your business in 5 – 10 years?
Ans: Looking ahead, I envision myself actively engaged within the business, maintaining my role in its operations. Over the course of five years, my aspiration is for the company to reach an annual sales figure nearing a million dollars. As I project a decade into the future, I aim even higher, with a target of 2.25 million dollars in annual sales.
In terms of workforce growth, my five-year goal involves having a team of five skilled technicians. Looking ahead ten years, I envision a further expansion of our workforce, potentially reaching a range of 12 to 15 technicians.
Geographically, I anticipate our business expanding its reach beyond South West Florida. Over the next decade, I envision serving both the Tampa area and the entirety of South Florida.
Brittany: “Where do you see yourself in five to ten years?”
Husband: “Allow me to share her perspective. She envisions dedicating herself full-time to the business.”
Brittany: “Absolutely, my aspiration is to become increasingly involved in the business aspect. I see myself contributing to the development of processes, establishing standardized procedures, and bolstering the administrative side of the business. This support would enable my husband to focus more intently on serving our customers.”
Q12: Excluding yours, what company or business do you admire the most?
Ans: With a touch of nostalgia, I’d have to reflect on a company that recently underwent a significant transformation. A couple of months back, National Exterminators transitioned from private ownership to a corporation. This holds a special place for me as it’s where I began my journey, and the former owner is a close friend. While the landscape has evolved, the sentiment remains.
On Brittany’s side, her connection with various external companies isn’t as profound as mine. However, from what I understand, James greatly admires the previous owner of the mentioned pest control company. His expertise and the way he steered his business have earned him James’ respect.
Q13: How important have good employees been to your success?
Ans: Very important, the significance of dependable employees cannot be overstated. They form the backbone of any operation. Trustworthiness and reliability in employees are paramount, as they can either uplift or undermine a company’s success. I firmly subscribe to the notion that an untrustworthy employee can place you in a state of perpetual vigilance, limiting your capacity to expand.
Fortunately, we’ve been blessed with exceptional employees who have truly been instrumental in our journey. We’re dedicated to cultivating an environment that entices and retains talent, making our company an appealing workplace. We work earnestly to convey our appreciation for their contributions and demonstrate that they are an integral and valued component of our company’s fabric. Their role is indeed crucial, and we continually strive to underline that fact.
Q14: How long do you stick with an idea before giving up?
Ans: I possess a strong determination, often leading me to persist with an idea until it finds a workable form. Instead of readily abandoning concepts, I embrace a process of reinvention, tirelessly exploring around 16 different approaches to find a path to success. Rather than outright surrendering, I return to the drawing board to refine and enhance the idea.
Throughout this journey, I am driven to enhance the concept, aiming for continual improvement. However, I do remain realistic. If it becomes apparent that an idea lacks potential, I am willing to acknowledge its limitations and consider discarding it. When faced with a fixable challenge, I’m prepared to invest considerable effort to overcome it, especially if the solution holds profit potential.
When an idea holds promise, I’m ready to confront obstacles head-on and persistently seek solutions, driven by the prospect of financial gain. Conversely, if an idea appears untenable, my approach shifts to strategically minimizing losses. It’s not a matter of surrender but rather a methodical evaluation of whether an idea is financially viable or a potential drain. I’m committed to managing costs prudently and maximizing the chances of success.
Q15: What motivates you?
Ans: My driving force is my family.
Q16: What are your ideals?
Ans: My guiding principles are centered around prioritizing the needs of the customer above my personal interests. Integrity and doing what is ethically right serve as my foundation. My foremost commitment is ensuring that the customer’s requirements are meticulously attended to. Even if a situation arises where I’m unable to provide assistance, I believe in being upfront about it. Rather than taking a customer’s money and attempting to deceive them, I am transparent about the limitations.
In the realm of pest control, for instance, I believe in presenting the best solutions to customers, even if it means recommending more extensive measures like tent fumigation when necessary. I stand firm in my commitment to upholding my values and principles, never compromising my morals. My perspective is one of long-term dedication, seeking to build lasting relationships based on trust and honesty.
Q17: How do you generate new ideas?
Ans: I draw inspiration from my network of industry friends, engaging in frequent exchanges of ideas. This collaborative environment plays a significant role in generating fresh concepts. Sometimes, a simple article or piece of information I come across can trigger a new idea.
Once an idea forms, I share it with my industry peers for their input and insights. Together, we evaluate its potential, determining whether it’s a viable direction to pursue. If the consensus is positive, we proceed with the idea; if not, we shelve it without hesitation. This dynamic interplay of brainstorming and collaboration helps refine and validate the ideas that have the most promise.
Q18: How do you define success?
Ans: Success, to me, is grounded in fundamental principles. It starts with awakening each morning, prioritizing faith, and embracing a sense of purpose. Success involves consistently making choices that reflect integrity in your dealings with family, customers, and employees.
The ultimate triumph isn’t merely avoiding failures, but rather the resilience to rise every time you stumble. It’s a testament to the ability to endure setbacks and emerge stronger. In essence, success is a journey of unwavering commitment, a testament to not giving up and persisting through challenges.
Q19: How do you build a successful customer base?
Ans: Building a thriving customer base rests on a foundation of key principles:
Fair Treatment: Treat every customer fairly, regardless of the scale of their project. Fairness fosters trust and loyalty.
Value-Based Pricing: Price your services reasonably while acknowledging your expertise and worth. Striking the right balance demonstrates respect for both your customers and yourself.
Uncompromised Values: Uphold your values and moral standards at all times. Consistency in ethics nurtures long-term relationships.
Genuine Charity: When offering charitable services, ensure they are genuinely altruistic. Uphold the integrity of charity work by not using it as a profit-making opportunity.
Compassionate Assistance: Extend help when needed, particularly to those in vulnerable situations. Going the extra mile for those in genuine need reflects your commitment to the community, help that little old lady or man, if there is a family in need; lend a hand.
Incorporating these principles into your business strategy cultivates trust, respect, and a positive reputation within your customer base.
Q20: What is your favorite aspect of being an entrepreneur?
Ans: My favorite facet of being an entrepreneur is the sense of purpose that comes with shouldering responsibilities. The pressure fuels me, knowing that it’s not just my immediate family relying on me. In the past, it was about providing for my wife and two children, but now, it extends to my employees and their families too.
Being an entrepreneur empowers me to contribute not only to my own family’s well-being but also to the livelihoods of my employees and the wider community. This ability to make a positive impact on multiple levels fills me with a profound sense of accomplishment and drives my dedication to success.
Q21: What has been your most satisfying moment in business?
Ans: One of the most gratifying moments in my business journey has been the privilege of sharing my work life with my children. Introducing them to my customers, observing their growth, and witnessing their genuine interest in my profession has brought me immense joy. Whether it’s the simple act of changing rodent bait or more intricate tasks like web removal at customers’ homes, these moments have held special significance.
Engaging my children in business operations, such as assisting in the invoicing process by stuffing envelopes and adding stamps, has forged unforgettable memories. A standout memory is when my 13-year-old son eagerly handed out stacks of business cards to his schoolmates, even if it occasionally got him into trouble. This instance remains a profoundly rewarding and proud moment, encapsulating the amalgamation of my business endeavors, my children’s involvement, and the overall pride in my company.
Q22: What do you feel is the major difference between entrepreneurs and those who work for someone else?
Ans: The major difference between entrepreneurs and those who work for others lies in their mindset. Entrepreneurs need to adopt a broader perspective. They can’t focus solely on their personal interests or immediate gains. While many employees today tend to think about what they individually gain, entrepreneurs must consider the larger impact of their actions. This involves thinking about how their choices affect those around them—family, employees, customers, and even their reputation.
Another important aspect is handling stress. Entrepreneurs must not let stress overpower them. Instead, they need to maintain a clear head, make well-thought-out decisions, and take responsibility for those decisions.
Ultimately, being an entrepreneur requires thinking beyond oneself, managing stress effectively, and confidently standing behind the choices made. This mindset shift characterizes the entrepreneurial perspective.
Q23: What kind of culture exists in your organization? How did you establish this tone and why did you institute this particular type of culture?
Ans: In our organization, a strong sense of value and collaboration prevails. The tone has been set in a way that leaves no room for doubt: our team members understand that their contributions are highly valued. They’re fully aware that they can approach me anytime with technical queries or concerns. Thankfully, the individuals I’ve hired exhibit a remarkable level of maturity. Unlike companies that sometimes hire just to fill positions, we prioritize finding employees who genuinely care. This reciprocated care extends to the company and, in turn, to our clients.
Our organization thrives on a familial atmosphere. The team is diligent, unafraid of hard work, and they genuinely believe in the company. In fact, their dedication was so profound that they offered to invest in company equipment. One employee even expressed willingness to lend money to aid in purchasing equipment. While I didn’t need the loan, it was heartening to see such maturity and financial responsibility among my team members.
Ultimately, their commitment to invest in the company reflects their belief in its worth. Witnessing this level of dedication is incredibly rewarding and underscores the positive culture we’ve cultivated.
Q24: n one word, characterize your life as an entrepreneur.
Ans: Busy
Q25: If you had the chance to start your career over again, what would you do differently?
Ans: I wouldn’t change a thing. Every step and job I’ve taken has contributed to my current success. Each experience has strengthened my position and shaped my journey. Altering any of those steps might have led to different outcomes, and I believe that every decision and path has played a role in shaping my success.
Q26: How has being an entrepreneur affected your family life?
Ans: Being an entrepreneur has brought our family closer together. It has given us a shared appreciation for one another’s efforts and aspirations. Our children have observed the potential for them to carry on the business in the future, which is a source of motivation. As a father, my aspiration is for them to exceed my achievements and lead better lives.
I wish nothing but success for my kids, and if they choose to inherit the company one day, I’ll provide them with every opportunity. If their interests diverge, that’s perfectly fine too. This business offers me the chance to instill in them a strong work ethic and provide a solid financial foundation for their futures.
Q27: What is your greatest fear, and how do you manage fear?
Ans: (We where going to get back to this, didn’t have time.)
Q28: How did you decide on the location for your business?
Ans: The location for my business was an easy decision – it’s right where I live.
Q29: Do you believe there is some sort of pattern or formula to becoming a successful entrepreneur?
Ans: Certainly, a key pattern or formula for becoming a successful entrepreneur often involves dedication and hard work. By consistently getting up earlier than your competition and putting in more effort, you position yourself to outpace others in terms of productivity and innovation. This approach helps you seize opportunities, make informed decisions, and maintain a competitive edge in the business landscape.
Q30: If you could talk to one person from history, who would it be and why?
Ans: If I had the chance, I would choose to talk to Abraham Lincoln. His numerous failures, including his unsuccessful attempts at becoming a senator, resonate with me as an entrepreneur. I’m curious to learn about his motivations, his strategies for overcoming adversity, and the mindset that enabled him to persevere through challenges. Lincoln’s journey from setbacks to becoming one of history’s most iconic figures holds valuable lessons that I believe could offer insights and inspiration for my own entrepreneurial path.
Q31: Who has been your greatest inspiration?
Ans: My greatest inspiration has come from two influential figures in my life: Coach Cory Canis and Coach Clay Tyrell. They were my coaches while I was growing up, with Coach Cory guiding me through wrestling in high school and Coach Clay being a mentor in weightlifting. Beyond their coaching roles, Cory’s pastoral guidance also played a pivotal role in shaping me.
These two individuals weren’t just coaches; they were influential guides who kept me on the right path, steering me away from trouble and offering fatherly advice. While my own parents were present in my life, I discovered that sometimes seeking guidance from other figures is beneficial. As a parent now, I’ve come to understand that parents may not always fully comprehend the challenges their children face. My coaches provided insights and support that made a lasting impact on my life, even if they may not have realized the depth of their influence.
Q32: What book has inspired you the most? (OR what is your favorite book?)
Ans: (Skipped)
Q33: What are some of the biggest mistakes you’ve made?
Ans: Some of the most significant mistakes I’ve made revolved around thinking I had all the answers. One notable error was not dedicating enough time to thorough research on specific topics. Additionally, we encountered financial losses due to poorly planned marketing efforts. Rather than conducting proper research, we trusted ideas that seemed promising on the surface, without delving into the necessary groundwork. These experiences taught me the importance of informed decision-making and the need to ensure comprehensive research before embarking on any endeavor.
Q34: How can you prevent mistakes or do damage control?
Ans: To prevent mistakes or mitigate their impact, there are key steps you can take:
Ownership and Honesty: Acknowledge your mistakes openly. Whether in personal or professional matters, facing them head-on is crucial. Be honest with yourself and others about what went wrong.
Reflection and Learning: Take time to reflect on the situation. Understand the factors that led to the mistake. This provides valuable insights to prevent similar errors in the future.
Transparency: Communicate with those affected by the mistake. Honesty and transparency foster trust and demonstrate your commitment to rectifying the situation.
Problem-Solving: Focus on solutions rather than dwelling on the mistake itself. Devote energy to finding ways to rectify the issue or minimize its impact.
Learning Opportunity: Every mistake offers a chance to learn. Embrace the lessons it brings and implement changes to prevent similar errors down the line.
By following these steps, you can not only minimize the occurrence of mistakes but also effectively manage the aftermath when they do occur.
Q35: What are your hobbies? What do you do in your non-work time?
Ans: In my free time, I engage in several hobbies. I enjoy shooting activities, which provide both relaxation and skill development. Watching movies is another pastime that I find enjoyable, providing a way to unwind and be entertained. Spending quality time with my family is a priority, and I cherish these moments.
I also have a keen interest in golf, although I’m admittedly not very skilled at it. Additionally, I’ve recently taken up scuba diving, finding it to be an exciting and enriching experience. These hobbies not only offer personal enjoyment but also contribute to a well-rounded life beyond work.
Q36: What makes you happy?
Ans: Happiness for me revolves around cherished moments spent with my family. Whether it’s sharing moments while watching movies together, with my cat nestled on my lap, or engaging in social activities like barbecuing and cooking with loved ones, these interactions bring me immense joy. Being a sociable person, the presence of friends and family, either individually or together, is what truly makes me happy
Q37: What sacrifices have you had to make to be a successful entrepreneur?
Ans: One of the sacrifices I’ve had to make to achieve success as an entrepreneur is sleep. The demanding nature of entrepreneurship often leads to high levels of stress and pressure, resulting in sleepless nights. Instead of resting peacefully, my mind is preoccupied with thoughts about unanswered emails, pending calls, and the tasks that lie ahead. The constant racing of thoughts can make it challenging to sleep, as I constantly plan for the next day.
Effectively managing these demands and maintaining success hinges on organization. Being organized is a crucial skill—it can either be your greatest ally or your most formidable challenge. Despite the sacrifices, the rewards of entrepreneurship make the journey worthwhile.
Q38: If you were conducting this interview, what question would you ask?
Ans: If I were conducting this interview, I would ask: “What led you to enter the industry you’re in?”
For me personally, when I ventured into pest control, it was a decision born out of the desire for something new. I was looking for a change from my current job at the time. If someone had told my 23-year-old self that in 17 years, I would be the owner of a pest control company, managing employees and providing for my family through this business, I would have thought they were crazy.
I vividly recall the time I applied for a job at National Exterminators. I was skeptical, wondering if pest control was even a real profession. I asked my parents, and they mentioned Nick, our neighbor, who knew his pest control guy by first name because he always had ant problems. Speaking to Nick, he confirmed that it was indeed a genuine field.
Embracing pest control with an open mind, I had the chance to meet Dan at National Exterminators. He became a father figure for me after my stepfather passed away. From then on, my journey in pest control took off, and I formed a strong bond with it. This industry captured my interest, and it’s been an incredible journey. I’m eagerly looking forward to what the future holds in this field.