Running a successful gardening business is no easy feat, especially when you’re looking to scale up and bring on multiple employees.
However, with the right strategies and mindset, it’s entirely possible to build a large, profitable gardening operation that provides exceptional service to your clients.
Just ask Mitchell, the owner of Jim’s Mowing in Cardiff, who has been with the franchise for over 8 years and now manages a team of 8 staff.
In a recent interview on the Jim’s Podcast, Mitchell shared a wealth of insights and advice for other gardening business owners looking to grow their operations.
From maintaining high customer service standards to developing effective training processes for new hires, Mitchell’s experience provides a roadmap for success that any aspiring gardening entrepreneur can learn from.
Shifting Your Mindset from Sole Trader to Business Owner
One of the biggest challenges Mitchell faced when transitioning from a sole trader to a business owner with employees was adjusting his mindset.
Rather than expecting everything to run smoothly, Mitchell quickly learned that being a business owner means constantly problem-solving and putting out fires.
This shift in perspective was crucial for Mitchell’s success.
Instead of getting bogged down by issues, he learned to stay proactive, accessible, and focused on providing an exceptional customer experience.
Developing a Winning Employee Culture
One of the keys to Mitchell’s success has been his ability to build a strong, loyal team of employees.
Rather than just hiring the cheapest labor, he’s intentional about creating an environment where people want to stick around.
Some of the strategies Mitchell has employed to foster this kind of culture include:
- Sending crews out in pairs: “I try and do Twan Crews as much as possible… I think it creates a much better working environment, creates… an environment where you get sustainable employees that want to stick around.”
- Focusing on work-life balance: “In winter too, so I could get rid of more people in Winter and still get through the work. But instead I sort of like quite often on Fridays I’ll pay from have the day off or come in for two hours so they’ll still get the full day.”
- Avoiding overly demanding jobs: “We don’t typically take on that the job where somebody didn’t made their lawn for 12 months… I just think it’s… too hard of work and it just turns away when I’m focusing on employees being happy.”
- Experimenting with bonus programs: “I’ve sort of… like what’s his name um Mike and yeah I kind of like his concept or what I like the most about what he does is how his theory is it’ll create employees that operate like bosses so they they’re always going to look for better ways, quicker ways to do things.”
The end result of Mitchell’s efforts is a team of engaged, loyal employees who are invested in the success of the business.
Leveraging Technology and Documentation for Quality Control
Another key factor in Mitchell’s success has been his embrace of technology and documentation to maintain high standards of quality and customer service.
Specifically, Mitchell utilizes Sord Scape, a comprehensive field service management software, to keep his operations running smoothly.
In addition to Sord Scape, Mitchell also leverages Bri HR, a human resources platform, to ensure his safety and compliance systems are up to par.
This commitment to documentation and technology allows Mitchell to closely monitor his team’s performance and quickly address any issues that arise.
Mastering the Art of Quoting and Pricing
One of the most critical skills for any gardening business owner is the ability to accurately quote and price their services.
Mitchell has developed a unique approach that allows him to remain competitive while still ensuring profitability.
By billing hourly for certain clients, he’s able to provide a more personalized, flexible service while still maintaining a healthy profit margin.
For mowing jobs, Mitchell has developed his own proprietary pricing model that takes into account factors like equipment, employee skill levels, and job complexity.
Mitchell’s approach to quoting and pricing is a delicate balance, but one that has clearly paid off.
By focusing on profitability and value rather than undercutting the competition, he’s been able to build a sustainable, thriving gardening business.
Leveraging Franchise Support and Partnerships
As a Jim’s Mowing franchisee, Mitchell has been able to tap into a wealth of support and resources that have been instrumental to his success.
From the guidance of his local franchise representative, Paul, to the comprehensive systems and training provided by the Jim’s Group, Mitchell has been able to leverage the power of the franchise model to grow his business.
Beyond the support from his franchise representative, Mitchell has also found value in the Jim’s Mowing brand itself.
In addition to the Jim’s Mowing franchise, Mitchell has also forged valuable partnerships with other service providers, like Bri HR, to help streamline his operations and ensure compliance.
Embracing Neurodiversity in the Workplace
One of the most inspiring aspects of Mitchell’s business is his commitment to hiring and supporting neurodiverse individuals.
Mitchell has had great success employing people with conditions like autism and depression, finding that they often excel in the structured, detail-oriented work of gardening.
Not only does this approach provide meaningful employment opportunities for individuals who may struggle to find work elsewhere, but it also benefits Mitchell’s business.
Mitchell’s willingness to think outside the box and create an inclusive work environment is a testament to his values and commitment to making a positive impact in his community.
Navigating the Ups and Downs of Entrepreneurship
Of course, running a successful gardening business hasn’t been without its challenges for Mitchell.
One particularly difficult period for Mitchell was about three years ago, when he lost several key employees at once.
Despite the challenges, Mitchell persevered, learning valuable lessons about resilience and problem-solving.
Mitchell’s ability to weather the storms and keep his focus on the long-term success of his business is a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and dedication.
Mitchell’s journey as a gardening business owner is an inspiring example of what’s possible with the right mindset, strategies, and support.
From building a strong, loyal team of employees to leveraging technology and franchise resources, Mitchell has demonstrated the keys to scaling a successful gardening operation.
For aspiring gardening entrepreneurs, Mitchell’s story offers a wealth of valuable lessons, including:
- Shifting your mindset from sole trader to business owner, and embracing the role of problem-solver
- Prioritizing employee culture and work-life balance to foster long-term loyalty and engagement
- Utilizing technology and documentation to maintain high standards of quality and customer service
- Developing a strategic, profitable approach to quoting and pricing services
- Leveraging the support and resources of a franchise system like Jim’s Mowing
- Embracing neurodiversity and creating inclusive work environments
- Cultivating resilience and a long-term perspective to navigate the ups and downs of entrepreneurship
By following Mitchell’s example and applying these principles, gardening business owners can position themselves for sustained growth, profitability, and success.
To learn more about the Jim’s Mowing franchise and how it can support your gardening business aspirations, visit jims.net or call 131 546 (Australia) or 0800 454 654 (New Zealand).