Never in her wildest dreams did south side native Robiar Smith picture herself owning and operating her own pest control company to honor the legacy of her parents. But we all know the Yiddish proverb “We plan, God laughs” is not far from the truth.
What makes Smith’s story even more unique is the fact that she holds a Bachelor’s degree, TWO Master’s, and was a highly respected IT professional and sought after Professor at many universities in the Chicagoland area before she left it all behind to start her company R.B. Pest Solutions. The “B” in “R.B.” is in honor of her father, Michael Benton. Since her parents, Michael and Dolores, didn’t have any sons, Robiar feels it is important for her to carry on her father’s legacy.
You may be asking “Why pest control?” Well, the short answer is Smith feels that pest control is her calling in life and it has allowed her to return home to her grassroots. In a traditionally male-dominated field, she is trailblazing her way to the top, servicing her community and educating them along the way.
N’DIGO recently sat down with the intriguing entrepreneur to learn more about R.B. Pest Solutions and her journey in creating the thriving company.
N’DIGO: In your own words, who is Robiar Smith?
Robiar Smith: Robiar Smith is a Black Woman, wife, and mother of three God sent children. I wake up every day asking God to use me as a tool to better my life and better the lives of the people around me. I’m blessed and grateful to be a business owner thriving during this time.
As a child, what did you dream of doing for a living as an adult?
The performing arts are my first love. Singing, dancing, and poetry were all I ever wanted to do when I was growing up. Never in my wildest dreams did I think the pest control industry would be the stage I would enjoy standing on. It’s a great stage to be on.
Why did you go into the pest control business?
Pest control is truly in my DNA and has been in my family for the last 41 years. My mom introduced pest control to my Dad. In 1979 he started as a pest control technician with a local exterminating company in Chicago. He can tell you so much about the business and how it has changed over the years. You can say I am a second-generation exterminator. I am so very proud to carry on the torch. Pest control is about legacy for my family and me.
What was the aha moment when you knew you wanted to leave your career as an IT professional and college professor to start R.B. Pest Solutions?
One day, I realized how much value I was contributing to my clients’ and students’ success. My content was valuable and I knew, if applied my skills correctly, I can change the trajectory of not just my life but also my family’s life. I decided to bet on myself and start R.B. Pest Solutions. As a result, my education and professional background gives me the luxury to do very little outsourcing. My business is turning four years old and we’re just getting started! Starting this company has been the best decision I’ve ever made. I love what I do! I can’t see myself doing anything else. I provide a service that people need, I take pride in what I do and the customers we serve.
In order to become certified you had to take a strenuous extermination exam but failed a couple times before you passed. Can you talk about your persistence and resilience in getting over that hump to obtain your extermination license?
Have you ever made a goal so gut-wrenching that it becomes extremely personal for you? This is what happened to me after I decided to start R.B. Pest Solutions. My family and friends knew when I was taking the exam they gave me their full support and cheered me on. I studied rigorously day and night while working two jobs and raising a family. Every time, I failed the exam it became personal for me. It was an obstacle I was determined to achieve! I’ve faced some very challenging times growing numbers for my business and it hasn’t been easy, (however neither am I.) No matter what, I knew if I continued to work hard I would succeed.
Was there ever a moment in that process where you thought you should go back to teaching?
Yes, I often reflect on my past teaching, while working with my clients on various projects. I was able to show up, fulfill my role, and go above and beyond my job description when necessary. I was a dedicated employee. Currently, I have a completely different mindset as I grow my business. I’m always looking at the bigger picture, and play many different roles when necessary. No job is too big or small for me to do. I’m having so much fun creating processes and scaling my business. Also, I get a chance to build a legacy and a chance to change the way black women are represented in the pest control industry and in business. I’m having the time of my life!
What are some of the unique struggles you’ve faced as a black woman in your industry?
I’m constantly being questioned as to whether I can continue to provide excellent pest control services and run a successful company in a multi-billion-dollar industry. It shows up while completing contractual documents, attending negotiations, or even simply showing up at customers’ homes. I don’t take it personally at all. Challenges like this allow me to become creative in leaving my target market with a “wow” experience. I want my name to speak for itself. I may not be able to please everyone but my team and I work hard and many of our customers return or refer us to others, so we must be doing something right!
Are there any misperceptions or anything you want people to know about pest control in general?
I want people to know pest control services aren’t just about applying chemicals everywhere when there’s a problem. We’re licensed providers through the Illinois Department of Public Health. The safety of the residents of Illinois is our top priority. We must inspect, identify, prevent, control, and monitor your pest problem for the best results! It’s an amazing trade and an essential service needed within all communities.
What are three of your personal keys to business?
1. Listen to the needs of your customers and staff.
2. Create leaders within your organization.
3. Know when to shift gears and implement what works with your staff and customers.
What’s something people would be surprised to know about pest control?
It’s a fun career and there’s never a dull moment! I actually learn so much from the pest that I interact with on a daily basis. I see how they work together to survive and studying their life cycles is astonishing!
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to young entrepreneurs?
It’s a cliche statement but here it goes! Just do it! Don’t overthink the how factors of starting a business. This is the area where many people remain stuck. Don’t overthink the business name, logo, and color schemes. Just LEAP! Once you take a step, each step after the first step becomes so clear!
Any favorite quotes or affirmations?
I AM affirmations are my favorite. I am enough, I am worthy, I am powerful along with many more positive words I can simply place after I AM. This is a daily routine for me.
What’s next for Robiar Smith?
Professionally, I have so much I’m working on and can’t wait to share it with all of my clients. We’re working on new pest products, the opening of other retail locations, software, and pest services for our customers. Personally, I want my daughters to be happy and witness their mom walking in her purpose, in hopes I encourage them to boldly walk in theirs. I want God to continue to use me, and I will continue to bring the best version of myself to my personal and professional endeavors.
For more information on R.B. Pest Solutions, please visit www.rbpestcontrol.com and follow them on all social media platforms @r.b.pestsolutions
Where are the questions on rats, mice, bedbugs and other vermin?
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