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Pondspectives with Mike
Monday, Oct. 3, 2011, 1 p.m. EDT
8 Tips for Pond Pros to Thrive in a Challenged Economy
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By Mike Garcia
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| Tip No. 3: Build a pond and water garden portfolio library on Facebook. | As fall begins, it seems that business this year fared much better than last year. Last year saw many reputable pond and water garden companies go under or use up what little saving they had to keep afloat.
I do not remember having to work so hard to make so little. Despite the challenged economy, my company did much better this year. Here are some tips to keep you on top:
- Rapid follow up is crucial. If you do not get back to potential pond and water garden clients the same day, they will keep looking.
- Know your trade and keep your finger its pulse. Read pond and water garden trade journals and network with others in the field.
- Build a pond and water garden portfolio library on Facebook. EnviroscapeLA has a photo library of more than 6,000 pond and water garden photos on Facebook. When a client asks for photos, I pull out my electronic portfolio.
- Get involved with trade associations to network with manufacturers and see what other successful pond and water garden contractors do to improve themselves.
- Today's pond and water garden clients want to save money. Know what can save them long-term money by offering low electrical draw pumps.
- Add to your pond and water garden company website and keep it current.
- Volunteer for garden-related community projects.
- Stop leaving money on the table. Diversify your skills and offerings to more than ponds and water gardens. Consider lights and drip irrigation.
What are you doing to do more than survive? How do you thrive in today’s economic climate?
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