What are your job responsibilities at Orkin Canada?
I oversee day-to-day operations at the Scarborough branch, which include coordinating with Orkin pest specialists, sales inspectors and administrative assistants, as well as working with our customers directly to help control pests.
How long have you been at Orkin Canada? How does Orkin fit into your career path?
I began my career at Orkin 21 years ago, starting as a customer service representative in the Apartment Division, then developing my skills through various positions as a part-time and full-time pest specialist, service manager and national service manager. I have come full circle now that I serve as a branch manager for the Apartment Division.
What skills are required to become an office manager at Orkin?
Office managers need to have basic computer skills and experience in an office environment. A strong candidate demonstrates a commitment to service, enthusiasm for making a difference, flexibility, organization skills, good communication skills, the ability to respond well to challenges and the ability to deal with adversity.
How has Orkin Canada supported and encouraged you to succeed?
Throughout my career at Orkin, managers and colleagues have demonstrated how much they value each other as people and professionals. Having become a mother at a young age, my educational pursuits were cut short and motherhood prevailed. At first, I coordinated with my managers to create some flexibility in my schedule. Then, when my second child was on the way, I decided to stop working full-time at Orkin so I could spend more time with my children. During those eight years, I wanted to maintain connections with the company and industry I loved, so I assisted with part-time work and special projects. Also, at the encouragement of my former managers, I studied to receive my pest control license.
When my children and I were ready, I returned to Orkin full-time to oversee a new product line of hygiene and washroom care. At first, I felt overwhelmed with my new responsibilities, but the support and encouragement of my managers and colleagues helped boost my self esteem and motivation to succeed. Even with the challenge of juggling work and family, I was driven to continue with what I view as a fulfilling career path – with help from Orkin’s flexible hours, benefits and continued encouragement along the way.
After I adjusted to my new position, I decided to begin night classes to obtain my Operations Management Certification. With each course I passed over the next four years, I was recognized and supported by Orkin, both emotionally and financially. Through these experiences, I have developed a strong bond and commitment to a company that believes in me and my abilities, as well as employing some of the best in the industry.
What advice do you have for other women and companies to succeed in the current economy?
I feel that now, more than ever, training and life experiences are important in helping one to succeed. At Orkin, training is a key tool used to ensure each of our coworkers is able to provide the highest-quality service to our customers.
On a broader level, most women understand that more effort equals more options in our future. We know that if you work hard, you get ahead. We know that really, only we are responsible for how our lives unfold. We know that what we do now comes back to benefit us. It’s really all up to us. We choose what we do and how we act. We choose the balance between how much time we spend in leisure and in professional pursuits. We know that these are choices. We know that our lives are in our own hands and we have the opportunity to change the lives of those around us, personally and professionally.