I give up because it is a dead end

[Chris1594]

I throw in the towel I have tried to befriend LCO's in my area even the ones that are on here in my area and they either blow you off or just kind of avoid you now I understand this thread is Starting A Lawn Care & Landscaping Business. But I couldn't find any other suitable place so I'm just annoyed that LCO's in my area will not hire me nor show me the ropes and it really sucks that it is that much of a cut throat industry that you cannot get any advice or a job from a local so I guess what I'm saying is I'm going to give this up and just go back to doing Satellite Installs as my career and I have called job's in the paper and I never bring up that I wanna start my own LCO Business and still do not get hired and my resume is impressive so in all I have enjoyed myself on Lawnsite but cannot find the local help from the Seasoned LCO'S so I am Leaving Lawnsite and I thank all of you for taking the time and reading this Thank you very much. :-(

Good Bye
Sincerely,
Chris

[Chris1594]

whhops I meant to put a smiley face at the end not a sad one lol :-)*

[DLAWNS]

Don't give it up, man. Hang out until the spring, you have a better shot then. If there is any help you need, I'm here to help. I'm not local, but I'm willing to help where i can. Let me know. PM me if you want.

[Tyler7692]

Ummm...

Honestly, you do not need to be hired to figure out this business one bit. I just started my full service landscape business 8 months ago with NO prior experience to marketing, bidding, customer relations, and general business management skills and I have excelled immensely (Not bragging, but a simple business like this isn't rocket science).

I'm just saying that you need to work a little harder at this. Success doesn't fall into your lap.

[daveyo]

Its more likely the economy, I've had guys call me for a job also but the work is just not there right now. Just don't give up something you like to do, I started by trimming rose bushes for librarians. I didn't know a thing about it I read a book. By the way I love your signature, that was a great line.

[Toy2]

When I started in 05 I had a guy call me and was pissed off because he thought I was using his company name, HOT Lawns was mine, and Heart of Texas Landscaping was his....tried to be nice and told him I checked county records first before I started the biz....he was still an a$$, so I told him to FO!

Anyway I also tried to talk to other LCO's and they are afraid you will take the spoon that feeds them, I ended up meeting a mexican LCO that was mowing down the road, he showed me his set-up, and his accounts, etc....

When I got out of mowing, I gave him about 11 customers, names, address, I even talked to them about him, I kept 4.......he still has them today.....pays to be nice...

You don't need anyone, just go for it..

[lifetree]

... I ended up meeting a mexican LCO that was mowing down the road, he showed me his set-up, and his accounts, etc ... When I got out of mowing, I gave him about 11 customers, names, address, I even talked to them about him, I kept 4.......he still has them today.....pays to be nice...

You don't need anyone, just go for it..

If you really want to do it, you can do it !!

[Chris1594]

Heyy thanks allot everyone I guess what I needed was a pick me up or something I have just been down because allot of guys in my area don't wanna work with me because they think I'm gonna steal their thunder or something.I mean I always thought there was some science to Lawn Maintenance or something

[Chris1594]

Ummm...

Honestly, you do not need to be hired to figure out this business one bit. I just started my full service landscape business 8 months ago with NO prior experience to marketing, bidding, customer relations, and general business management skills and I have excelled immensely (Not bragging, but a simple business like this isn't rocket science).

I'm just saying that you need to work a little harder at this. Success doesn't fall into your lap.

I'm pretty much in the same boat but it put's a smile on my face to know that even I can make it then with no experience and do so well so Thanks Tyler because this does help allot because I was wondering if there was anyone like that out there who didn't have prior Landscaping knowledge who broke into the bizz and did real good so thanks

[Chris1594]

Don't give it up, man. Hang out until the spring, you have a better shot then. If there is any help you need, I'm here to help. I'm not local, but I'm willing to help where i can. Let me know. PM me if you want.

Thanks allot Bill im glad to know that you always got my back.

[Chris1594]

By the way I love your signature, that was a great line.


Thanks for your advice and btw I saw the movie 2 days ago and loved it really good movie

[mowerbrad]

In my area it seems like most of the LCOs know each other. We all wave to each other, talk to each other at the dealerships, ect. Everyone helps each other out. I guess I have it kinda good. But don't give up at it, everyone has to start somewhere.

[Chris1594]

In my area it seems like most of the LCOs know each other. We all wave to each other, talk to each other at the dealerships, ect. Everyone helps each other out. I guess I have it kinda good. But don't give up at it, everyone has to start somewhere.

Yeah it seems like around here all the Landscapers keep to them selves and dont communicate which stinks in a way I dunno

[Tampa_mower]

I throw in the towel I have tried to befriend LCO's in my area even the ones that are on here in my area and they either blow you off or just kind of avoid you :

Chris

most of thoses lco's will not hire to train someone to compete in a tight market place. If you really like the business you would stay in it and make a go at it. The only time someone gives up is because they don't like the business. it is a tough,tough business but it is a business. we struggled for two years and then made a big jump, almost to big to handle. This past year with three crews we were mowing 335 accounts a week, 6 days a week 10 hours a day. it ain't easy. our weeky payroll was (not including me) over 8,000.00 that is what stress is all about. If you came to me and said I want you to hire me to teach me the ropes I'd tell you to go fly a kite. sorry it's just business nothing personal

[DLAWNS]

most of thoses lco's will not hire to train someone to compete in a tight market place. If you really like the business you would stay in it and make a go at it. The only time someone gives up is because they don't like the business. it is a tough,tough business but it is a business. we struggled for two years and then made a big jump, almost to big to handle. This past year with three crews we were mowing 335 accounts a week, 6 days a week 10 hours a day. it ain't easy. our weeky payroll was (not including me) over 8,000.00 that is what stress is all about. If you came to me and said I want you to hire me to teach me the ropes I'd tell you to go fly a kite. sorry it's just business nothing personal

I see what you mean, but a lot of people don't want to work for other companies their whole life. I have my guys sign a no-compete clause and I tell them: stick with me for a while and if you want to go out on your own, that's fine. I'll even help them as long as they don't try to screw me over. I'm not worried about the competition as 95% of my customers would never go elsewhere as long as I don't give them a reason to.

Plus I love having allies in my area. I throw guys work that I don't have time for, they throw me work, we refer each other and none of us screw each other. Of course you have to be cautious and watch your back, but it can work.

[Chris1594]

Plus I love having allies in my area. I throw guys work that I don't have time for, they throw me work, we refer each other and none of us screw each other. Of course you have to be cautious and watch your back, but it can work.

I wish it was like that up here in this part of Jersey lol it must be the water up here lol

[Paradise Landscapes]

Some of the reasons that they may treat you like that is because they view you as competition and an enemy in the business world.

[Chris1594]

Some of the reasons that they may treat you like that is because they view you as competition and an enemy in the business world.


I understand it's just sad because you just wanna get some tips from the locals but im going to take everyone elses advice on here and just do it and learn things along the way

[ryry278]

Chris dont leave your funny. You can do it

[Chris1594]

Chris dont leave your funny. You can do it
lol Thanks thats one thing I like to be is funny :laugh:

[Chrysalis]

Sh** man you guys are pretty darn great on here if you ask me especially you DLAWNS, always helping. And talk about comradery amongst men, I couldnt be in a better line of work. And I cant thank all of you enough for the tons of knowledge that I get everyday from guys like yall.

Theres nothing quite like being out in the beautiful sun with the plants and that amazing smelling fresh cut grass, working your butt off with the hombres. I wouldn't change it for nothing. Best thing is when you design / install landscapes and the owner comes out and you see the look on their face and they are so happy with what youve done, and what you've done was artwork!

[JS Landscaping]

Starting out in the business is never easy, you have to gain the respect of your fellow landscapers/LCO's in the area I think. If you do quality work and show that you are not out there just cutting prices to get work, you will gain respect from them. When I first started my first company, JS Landscaping back when I was 16, Im sure I was viewed as a threat to some of the guys, being the new guy on the block. But as time progressed and they saw the quality work my company produced, and that I wasnt out there trying to steal work, you would start to see them wave or they would say hello of you saw them at a gas station. There will always be guys out there with thier heads stuck up thier you know whats, who think that they are the best and dont have the time or are too good to even wave as you pass eachother. Dont worry about them. Make friends in your local industry, you would be suprised on how they will throw you some work every now and then when they are too busy. Once you get established with a good reputation you will gain the respect. Now that I am starting all over again from scratch, I will be working on this myself. Dont give up. I did the first time around even after I was established, adnd it was a mistake. Good Luck!

[punt66]

Its a very simple business if you start simple.

1. Use Quick books and bill monthly
2. Mow with a ztr so your production is high
3. Trim trees, fences, edges.
4. blow off walks and drives.

Thats all you have to do to start. Learn the other stuff as you go and only focus on mowing. Avertise with signs and in the local papers.

You need liability insurance! And a Home improvement License (i do in CT). You will learn fast doing it on your own. You will care more about what your doing because its your name.

I put my route on a spread sheet. I could give you a sample of it if your interested how i keep track of the monthly mowing schedule. You just have to get out there and do it.

[Chris1594]

Thanks allot you guy's I really appreciate the support and help. This site is very good at getting the knowledge from.

[DLAWNS]

Sh** man you guys are pretty darn great on here if you ask me especially you DLAWNS, always helping. And talk about comradery amongst men, I couldnt be in a better line of work. And I cant thank all of you enough for the tons of knowledge that I get everyday from guys like yall.

Theres nothing quite like being out in the beautiful sun with the plants and that amazing smelling fresh cut grass, working your butt off with the hombres. I wouldn't change it for nothing. Best thing is when you design / install landscapes and the owner comes out and you see the look on their face and they are so happy with what youve done, and what you've done was artwork!

Thanks, dude. I really appreciate it. I love networking on this site.

[Lawn Freak]

Dude don't give up just because they don't want to help you out. There are many guys on here that will help you out. Start up your business and show them guys there in your area you don't need their help to be successful! If you ever need help feel free to pm or something

[Chris1594]

Dude don't give up just because they don't want to help you out. There are many guys on here that will help you out. Start up your business and show them guys there in your area you don't need their help to be successful! If you ever need help feel free to pm or something
Thanks Lawn Freak I appreciate it im just amazed with LCO's in the area how they won't really help you out or anything im on aim right now btw

[Grits]

Heyy thanks allot everyone I guess what I needed was a pick me up or something I have just been down because allot of guys in my area don't wanna work with me because they think I'm gonna steal their thunder or something.I mean I always thought there was some science to Lawn Maintenance or something

Nobody is going to make it easy for you. Most people will make it very hard for you, especially family and friends. I have friends that still don't look at what I do as "a real job". But you know what...I don't give a fnck! I do what I do and continue to make more money than the naysayers. The secret is to stay positive and constantly hustle.....even when you are "not working", you should be working and hustling. Starting out you just gotta research things that you don't know and perfect the things that you do know. Man-up and do it.

[Paradise Landscapes]

I understand it's just sad because you just wanna get some tips from the locals but im going to take everyone elses advice on here and just do it and learn things along the way

Well, first off, I was thinking bout this thread of yours for a while.
1) What if you join a local Nursery and Landscape Association? Talk to LCO's in there and see what they say.

2) Join a State Landscapers Association, Go to the shows, network off others for ideas. Now your at this point: Talk to an LCO that is accross the state since you will be nowhere in thier market AND ask them to be your business mentor.

So far, those are the only 2 ideas I have that should work.

[CrystalCreek]

Sh** man you guys are pretty darn great on here if you ask me especially you DLAWNS, always helping. And talk about comradery amongst men, I couldnt be in a better line of work. And I cant thank all of you enough for the tons of knowledge that I get everyday from guys like yall.

Theres nothing quite like being out in the beautiful sun with the plants and that amazing smelling fresh cut grass, working your butt off with the hombres. I wouldn't change it for nothing. Best thing is when you design / install landscapes and the owner comes out and you see the look on their face and they are so happy with what youve done, and what you've done was artwork!

What in the name of the Lord is that in your Advitar. It is scary

[AmsoilPower]

What in the name of the Lord is that in your Advitar. It is scary


Looks like a ostrich with a mouth of a piranha:laugh:

[Doster's L & L]

Chris, you sound like a real nice guy and others on here seem to like you pretty well. I've been where you are SEVERAL times in the past especially this time of year. Winter is depressing anyway and include the fact that you're not out working making much money compounds the sucky I-just-want-to-give-up-and-crawl-under-a-rock feeling. :cry: This is the time of year that separates the men from the boys. You can give up or you can plan on how to make the new year more successful for yourself. I recommend the latter.

You just need to start out small and simple with your services and treat each client like they are the only one. I would recommend reading some business books. I might recommend reading Donny Deutch, "The BIG IDEA". I'm sure that will have some good stuff in there. Marty Grunder has a good book on business. I've read that one. Lots of good info. He owns a multimillion $$$/yr lawn service in Ohio. I would also NOT get all of my advice on this site on how to perform your services. While this site has it's strengths, it also has it's weaknesses. You have one yahoo telling you such and such this way and some jack leg telling you to do such and such like that. If you can't decipher who's right, you'll certainly choose the wrong way to do it and get burned.

You can never learn too much about your career and you can never expect anyone to give anything to you. You can also never expect the government to take care of you when all goes down the drain. I won't charge you anything for the last tid bit.

Hope this helps.

[TXNSLighting]

What in the name of the Lord is that in your Advitar. It is scary

advitar???

[Chris1594]

Thanks allot for the wealth on Knowledge and advice you guy's have given me im going to deffinetly apply it for when I get out and the field and yes I am going to go and check out Nursery's and also the Landscaping associations I really appreciate everyones input and sorry for the late responses I went to Orange County Choopers today seeing as how my G/F lives down the road from there VERY cool place

[TXNSLighting]

I throw in the towel I have tried to befriend LCO's in my area even the ones that are on here in my area and they either blow you off or just kind of avoid you now I understand this thread is Starting A Lawn Care & Landscaping Business. But I couldn't find any other suitable place so I'm just annoyed that LCO's in my area will not hire me nor show me the ropes and it really sucks that it is that much of a cut throat industry that you cannot get any advice or a job from a local so I guess what I'm saying is I'm going to give this up and just go back to doing Satellite Installs as my career and I have called job's in the paper and I never bring up that I wanna start my own LCO Business and still do not get hired and my resume is impressive so in all I have enjoyed myself on Lawnsite but cannot find the local help from the Seasoned LCO'S so I am Leaving Lawnsite and I thank all of you for taking the time and reading this Thank you very much. :-(

Good Bye
Sincerely,
Chris

Well you are in Jersey...:laugh:

Look dont think to much about your idiot competition. Do you think you can succeed? I am friends with almost every LCO in town. But hey im in the south. Were all friends with eachother. Know one screws anyone over and we will keep it that way. If theres someone in town who does that they dont stay in business. Keep your head up. This biz isnt hard.

I had zero experience when i started. I mowed my moms yard since i was like 10 but thats it. you learn as you go. Just get good commercial equip. Do a great job and te biz will build itself. Good luck and dont give up so soon. Make your competition respect you.

[TXNSLighting]

Thanks allot for the wealth on Knowledge and advice you guy's have given me im going to deffinetly apply it for when I get out and the field and yes I am going to go and check out Nursery's and also the Landscaping associations I really appreciate everyones input and sorry for the late responses I went to Orange County Choopers today seeing as how my G/F lives down the road from there VERY cool place

I wouldnt even concern yourself with landscape this year. Just concentrate on the maintenance side of things.

[Chris1594]

I wouldnt even concern yourself with landscape this year. Just concentrate on the maintenance side of things.Yeah my car is pretty much in the **** house right now and it sucks being unemployed just going through a tough time with things Financially and I feel guilty cuz my parents are talking about buying me a used truck or car so just deffinatly a tough time for me

[Fleur De Lawn]

Nobody is going to make it easy for you. Most people will make it very hard for you, especially family and friends. I have friends that still don't look at what I do as "a real job". But you know what...I don't give a fnck! I do what I do and continue to make more money than the naysayers. The secret is to stay positive and constantly hustle.....even when you are "not working", you should be working and hustling. Starting out you just gotta research things that you don't know and perfect the things that you do know. Man-up and do it.


I love it. My friends think I don't work a lot. I have a buddy who live three houses down from me, and he leaves for work before me and I get home before him, and probably make twice as much money as he does, but he thinks i don't work alot.