Showcasing Jan/San to the Next Generation 

I often hear readers say: "This is an industry no one ever leaves." "My current business partner and best friend started off as my biggest competitor." And maybe my favorite, "Who knew there was so much money in toilet paper?" 

With so many positive attributes to jan/san, why is it so difficult to fill staffing vacancies?  

Jan/san distribution isn't often an option during high school career days. It's not a high priority for college graduates contemplating what to do with their lives. Why is that? This is an industry with opportunity, innovation, and stability. 

This is top of mind as I simultaneously celebrate with family and friends at graduation parties, and hear from readers about struggles with recruiting and retaining their next distributor sales reps. How are we educating young people about the potential that awaits them in jan/san? Because in the end, it's up to us. 

First, build awareness. Don't wait for candidates to come to you, go to them. Get involved with high schools and colleges in your area to secure a table at the next career day or job fair. Open the door to internship opportunities that showcase potential career options in jan/san. Work with a teacher to use your business as a case study for a class project. Manufacture opportunities to share what your business and this industry have to offer future graduates. 

When it comes to hiring, don't let education, skill shortages, or a lackluster work history be an obstacle for potential candidates. According to 2024 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 47 percent of potential employees say these are hurdles for employment. Be the option that provides skills training and on-the-job education. Also look for candidates with empathy, resilience, and strong communication skills, all of which are strong character traits for a successful sales career. 

And for those people who think jan/san can't be flashy, it might be time for a demo on autonomous equipment or Internet of Things. Personally, I prefer a conversation about ergonomics or chemical technology and how it helps fight viruses to create healthy environments.  

In terms of retention, jan/san is a strong career contender. If the pandemic taught us anything, it is that we can’t live without toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and disinfecting products. The viability of jan/san is alive and well, and it’s not going anywhere anytime soon. 

Like another wise reader once told me, “I suppose if you think long enough, you can find something negative about the cleaning industry, but who has that kind of time?”