Working as a landscaper can be enormously rewarding. You’ll get a chance to be creative and solve problems throughout the working day. You’ll be working outdoors for much of the time, and you’ll get physical exercise built into your day.
Moreover, you’ll get the satisfaction of creating lasting structures that will bring pleasure to your clients.
If you’re starting your own business in the industry, then you’ll also get the freedom and satisfaction that come from entrepreneurship, too.
But exactly what steps do you need to take to end up in this enviable position? Let’s take a look.
Qualifications
Landscaping doesn’t require a degree. However, aspiring landscapers could benefit from a foundation in education. This might take the form of an apprenticeship, or a course in Horticulture or Construction at your local college. In some cases, you could apply directly for a position – but this tends to be the optimal route for those who already have plenty of experience and knowledge in an adjacent field.
Improve your skills
If you’re going to stand apart in this business, then you’ll need to build up your practical skills and experiences. This will mean landscaping on a regular basis. Much like you can’t hope to be a professional pianist without playing the piano regularly, you can’t expect to be a landscaper unless you’re spending plenty of time working at the craft.
This is where an apprenticeship can be enormously useful. In the absence of this, you might ask friends and family whether you can practice in any of the green spaces they have available.
We should note that it isn’t just your skill at landscaping that will determine your success. You’ll also need social, financial, and administrative skills if you are to thrive in the world of business.
The right tools and materials
To give yourself the best chance of success, it pays to invest in professional-grade tools. These will last for longer, and perform to a higher standard, than the cheap tools marketed toward weekend gardeners.
The materials you source will also make a difference. Forge an ongoing relationship with your suppliers, and leverage that relationship to obtain the best discounts. Certain things, like fence panels, you might find yourself buying over and over again. Make sure that you’re getting the best deal possible.
Build your reputation
Your business will succeed or fail based on your reputation. If you perform a good job for somebody, then encourage them (gently) to pass on the good word to friends and family, and to leave positive feedback on social media. It’s difficult to build up a good reputation, but a bad one can spring up overnight – and so consistency is essential!
