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Breaking into the landscaping industry takes more than basic gardening skills. To win contracts, you need a good grasp of the industry. That includes what’s in demand and what competitors are doing. And what’s in demand depends on your target audience.  

In landscaping, you can choose between residential and commercial markets. How you navigate your chosen market determines your long-term success.  

 Here are eight tips on how to get landscaping jobs in any market.   

Commercial Versus Residential Landscaping 

Residential and commercial landscaping businesses serve different markets and need specific skills. Understanding these differences helps you target the right market.   

Commercial Landscaping  

Corporate landscaping businesses usually have bigger projects. You’ll work at office parks, hospitals, schools, and more. You’ll work with facility managers and follow strict project rules.  

In these projects, you must balance beauty with function and durability. Safety and low maintenance are top priorities in commercial landscaping.  

Corporate landscaping involves complex bidding and long-term planning. You’ll have to learn to bid on projects rather than quoting for a job. These contracts also have lower profit margins but higher bidding amounts.  

FROM ONE OF OUR PARTNERS — 7 Strategies for Generating Commercial Landscaping Leads   

Residential Landscaping 

You’ll work with homeowners on family yards and gardens in residential landscaping. With these projects, you create spaces that match homeowner preferences. Residential landscaping jobs are smaller and project-based. You’ll do things like plant flowers, design gardens, and maintain lawns.   

And you’ll have the opportunity to build relationships with homeowners. This gives you the chance to secure ongoing contracts. You might come back each spring to plant new flowers and clean up debris in the fall.   

You can give clients estimates on the go with a residential landscaping business. Happy homeowners might also refer you for more landscaping work.  

RELATED ARTICLE — How to Start a Landscaping Business: A Comprehensive Guide  

8 Tips To Get Landscaping Jobs  

The first step to getting landscaping jobs is to decide which type of landscaper you want to be. But in any market, these eight tips will help you get more landscaping jobs:   

1. Competitive Pricing Strategy  

Research the rates landscapers charge in your area. Develop fair and competitive pricing that reflects your expertise and experience. Create clear landscaping estimates to show the costs so clients know what they pay.   

When you can, offer different service options to fit clients’ budgets. And be open to discussing prices, but don’t lower the value of your work.  

2. Invest in High-Quality Equipment  

High-quality equipment shows your professionalism to potential clients. Maintain your tools in top condition and upgrade regularly. Consider leasing advanced equipment to stay competitive. Your equipment can become your best marketing tool.  

3. Network with Local Businesses  

Local connections can generate opportunities for your landscaping business. Introduce yourself to real estate agents, property managers, and construction companies.  

You can also meet potential clients by joining chamber of commerce meetings or attending local events. These help you meet people in your community.    

FROM ONE OF OUR PARTNERS — The Quick Guide to Getting More Landscaping Leads  

4. Build a Company Presence  

Build a strong brand that showcases your landscaping skills. Start with a professional logo and a consistent look for your materials.  

Get branded items like landscaping business cards, team uniforms, and vehicle wraps. It will turn your team and vehicles into part of a recognizable brand.   

5. Create an Online Presence 

Your digital footprint matters. Build a professional website showcasing your best landscaping projects. Use high-quality before-and-after photos that showcase your best projects.   

Making posts with hashtags also increases your visibility in local landscaping searches. Then, when people are searching for landscaping services, they’ll be able to find you.   

6. Leverage Customer Testimonials  

Gather and display customer reviews and feedback. Make it easy for customers to leave reviews with direct links to review platforms. For major projects, invite clients to record videos or write blurbs that you can post on your site.   

Always thank satisfied customers who take the time to share their feedback. Reply to any negative feedback to show that you’re open to criticism and improving your business.   

FROM ONE OF OUR PARTNERS — Google Ratings and Reviews: How They Work and Why They Matter  

7. Offer Seasonal Maintenance Packages   

Create seasonal landscaping packages for residential and commercial clients. Design plans that cover spring cleanup, summer maintenance, fall preparation, and winter services. Packages provide consistent income and build long-term client relationships.  

Offer competitive packages but reflect your expertise. You can also offer landscaping discounts for yearly commitments.   

RELATED ARTICLE — The Ultimate Landscaping Checklist Every Professional Needs  

8. Build a Referral Program  

Word-of-mouth referrals are a powerful business marketing tool in landscaping. Design a program to reward happy clients who recommend your services. Offer clear incentives for referrals. Consider giving discounts on services or small gift cards for successful referrals.   

What To Avoid When Securing Landscaping Contracts 

Making mistakes can cost time, money, and clients when landing landscaping jobs. Avoiding common pitfalls keeps you efficient, professional, and profitable. Here are tips to keep in mind to ensure success.  

  1. Depending on One Client. Having only one customer is dangerous, even if it’s a large contract. If that one client leaves, you could lose everything. Build a mix of clients to stay safe.  
  1. Not Investing in Training. Your team is your biggest strength. Even if it’s just you, you can work to improve your skills. Taking courses to strengthen your trade, seeking out apprenticeships to specialize skills, or attending webinars about how to market can all improve your ability to run a successful business. Good training means better work and satisfied customers.   
  1. Underestimating Your True Project Costs. Track all your materials and work hours. Add a margin for unforeseen expenses to estimates. This transparency builds trust and credibility with customers. And correct pricing keeps you from losing money.   
  1. Lack of Communication with Clients: Keep clients in the loop. Share updates about work, timing, and any changes. Good communication builds trust and keeps you on the same page.  
  1. Not Taking Care of Your Tools. Working tools mean faster and better work, while neglected tools cost you time and money. Clean and perform regular maintenance on your tools.   

Win More Clients with Quick and Professional Estimates 

Ready to win more landscaping jobs faster? Start creating professional estimates in minutes with our easy-to-use mobile estimating tool. Impress clients on the spot.   

Try Joist today for faster estimates