PMPs Returning to More In-Person Events, PCT Poll Shows

CLEVELAND -  While PMPs successfully pivoted with all aspects of running their business, including attending virtual training events, there is something to be said for in-person events. Almost two-thirds (63 percent) of those who responded to a recent PCT poll said they will be attending three or more in-person events this year.

Tim Baietto, owner of Quik-Kill Pest Eliminators, Streator, Ill., was among those who said he’ll be attending four or more events this year. “I’m vaccinated, so COVID is no longer a major concern, and being a people person, always nice to see people face to face.”

Similarly, Kurt Treftz, owner of Cascade Pest Control in the Seattle, Wash., area, said he will be attending at least three in-person events this year. 

For Treftz and others, the real value with in-person events is the networking component. “I am realizing that ‘I don’t know what I don’t know,’” he said.  “It’s amazing what you discover by just visiting and talking with others. With Zoom meetings you really don’t know that other person. When you meet people in person you get a better feel for them because you can observe their body language and really build trust with one another.”

Twenty-six percent responded they will attend 1-2 events this year while 11 percent said they will attend no events in 2023.