Alright landscapers…. let’s roll up our sleeves and talk about a subject that puts dollars in the bank without drainin’ your wallet—low-cost, easy-to-implement marketing and sales strategies. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: “Today, money finds speed. And speed finds money.”
What’s that mean for a small business owner? It means you don’t always have to be the low bidder to win the job—you just gotta be quicker, sharper, and more personal in how you communicate and follow up. Let’s talk through five ways you can win more sales by using your God-given smarts, some southern manners, and a dash of hustle.
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- Answer the Doggone Phone!
I know this sounds too simple, but listen—when a homeowner or property manager calls, they’re already leaning toward buying. Most of your competitors are too busy mowing or ignoring calls to pick up. If you or your office gal answers promptly, with a cheerful “Yes ma’am” or “Good afternoon, sir,” you’re already ahead of the pack. Speed wins. Don’t let voicemail be your receptionist.
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- Respond to Inquiries Lightning Fast
If a prospect leaves a message, treat it like a hot biscuit—don’t let it get cold. Call back within an hour if possible, same day at the very least. That quick response communicates reliability. Buyers are thinkin’: “If they’re this fast before I hire ‘em, they’ll be dependable after I sign the contract.” Bingo—you’ve won their trust without slashing your price.
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- Carry Yourself Like a Pro
You don’t need a fancy Harvard degree to win more work. You need pressed shirts, clean trucks, trimmed beards, brushed teeth, and respectful manners. I’ve seen contractors lose a $50,000 landscape install ‘cause they showed up in ragged shorts and flip-flops. Meanwhile, the guy who said “Yes sir” with polished boots and a smile took the check to the bank. Presentation is persuasion.
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- Follow Up with Purpose
Quoting a job is not the finish line—it’s halftime. The winners are the ones who follow up. Don’t rely on one method. Mix it up:
Phone calls (when you can get ‘em live).
Emails (short, professional, clear).
Text messages (brief reminders).
And here’s my secret weapon: a handwritten note. Yep, in this digital world, that pen and paper will make you stand out like a magnolia blossom in a field of weeds.
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- Be the Reminder, Not the Nuisance
Here’s a hard truth: folks are busy. Just because they don’t call you back doesn’t mean they ain’t interested. It often means they’re distracted. Your follow-up is the gentle tap on the shoulder that says, “I’m here when you’re ready.” Two or three polite touches usually separate the pros from the quitters. Don’t give up too soon.
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Wrapping It Up
Let’s face it: the landscape business is crowded with competitors who race to the bottom on price. But that ain’t gotta be you. When you respond fast, look sharp, talk respectfully, and follow up with care, you’ll win more jobs at fair prices.
Remember this rhyme to keep it fresh: “Be quick, not cheap,
Professional, not weak.
Follow up, don’t stop—
And watch the contracts drop!”
So fellas and gals, put these ideas into practice. You’ll be mowing and growing, staying clean and green, building trust, winning work, and padding that bank account—all without being the low bidder.
Luv ya…mean it.
Tony Bass, founder
tony@tonybassconsulting.com
866-923-0027
PS – how are your sales doing right now? Do you have work booked out or do you need some additional clients? Let me know!
