As the weather warms, people across the area are looking for comfort within their property’s boundaries. What will be at the top of many to-do lists? Landscaping improvements, of course. Homeowners will be seeking out the expertise, artistic vision, and value that a professional landscaper can offer.
So, how can you attract clients and close the deal? By being prepared to answer questions that every customer has.
Let’s look at the top seven most common questions we’ve found that potential clients asked to find the best landscaper.
Are you insured and licensed?
Be ready to prove that you are covered with the appropriate liability and workman’s compensation insurance. Also, you should have the proper licenses and certifications from professional organizations. These steps will prove you take your work seriously and operate professionally.
What services do you offer?
This is the “tell me about yourself” question of the interview. Not only should you be able to provide a listing of your company’s services, but you should also offer a professional brochure, flyer, or website, as well as social media pages that highlight your skills, value, and work. It’s important not to overstate your capabilities. Promising more than you can produce is a quick way to develop a bad reputation. Focus on what you do well, and clients will appreciate your honesty.
Have an arborist on staff or a professionally licensed landscape designer on the team? Be sure to let customers know about the expertise your company can offer. This is where you can stand out from the crowd. Using respected, expert subcontractors for work beyond your scope? Make it known and be proud that you partner with the best.
What experience do you have?
Here you get to show, and not just tell. Clients will want to know that they can count on you to do great work. Being able to claim a certain number of years in business is fine, but it’s crucial to offer proof of your work visually. Make sure you have pictures and videos of previous installations. Provide potential clients with a list of jobs they can drive by or even visit and a list of references they can contact. If you offer landscape lighting, have examples available of previous work. If you are proposing a paver patio, have examples of similar work with the same materials.
Be sure to keep in good standing with the Better Business Bureau and sites like Home Advisor and Angie’s List. It’s also essential to monitor your online status. Positive reviews and testimonials can provide valuable social proof. Various software programs can help you keep track of your mentions online.
Do you offer a free consultation?
On-site consultations may not be necessary for simple estimates like lawn cutting services. Still, most customers appreciate an in-person visit where they can explain their vision and discuss possibilities with an experienced landscaper. When you leave that initial meeting with your potential client, make sure they have a clear understanding of what will happen next and when. Getting this part of the interaction right will set the tone and let them know you are a reliable, experienced professional.
Will you stay on the project to completion?
You are busy. Many factors go into scheduling your work, but customers want to know that they won’t be left hanging. A half-completed job leaves a bad taste in their mouth, and word will get around of their dissatisfaction. Do everything you can to avoid leaving your customers’ landscapes torn up and unusable waiting to be completed.
Provide a clear timeline. Make sure any subcontractors are lined up and ready to go, and contingency plans are in place for weather delays. Be proactive, not reactive. And, if something does go wrong, be honest.
Do you guarantee your work?
Savvy customers want to know that you are willing to stand behind your work. Reputable landscaping contractors should guarantee their workmanship for at least two years, preferably five, while providing separate warranties for plants. Be sure to leave care instructions and even offer a maintenance contract to keep your work looking its best.
What materials do you use?
Most companies have a brand of pavers, lighting, plants, mulch, etc. they usually use. Be ready to discuss these choices and, of course, be open to investigating and using new materials. Quality is important. For instance, using a high-quality, clean, triple-shredded organic wood mulch can allow your project to stand out and provide the finishing touch that customers appreciate. Once you have agreed on materials, be sure to clearly outline what exactly will be used in any bid for a project
Your answers to these seven questions can make all the difference in whether you are the landscaper of choice for homeowners. Let your expertise and professionalism shine just as much as your clients’ landscapes, and your business will thrive.