Does working outside appeal to you? Do you frequently lose track of time while perusing the plant selection at your local nursery? A job in landscaping could be a good fit for you. Certain characteristics are required of everyone in the landscaping crew. You can further your career by cultivating the following traits. You can use these skills to get hired, advance in your current position, or even become a manager.
It’s okay if you haven’t finished college or gained work experience just yet. Companies today value both soft talents and formal education. Read on to find out what a landscaper does and what kind of personality you might need if you’re thinking about making landscaping your Franz career.
Who Does Landscape Design?
When planning plants, water features, walks, and other outdoor amenities, a landscape designer takes into account both aesthetics and functionality. They employ their imagination and originality to create beautiful outdoor areas for offices, private residences, public parks, and golf courses.
It’s important to note that not all landscapers work for themselves, as some do; others are employed by commercial or government institutions or by lawn care companies. A landscaper is the same as a groundskeeper or someone who maintains the grounds. Landscapers can work independently or in groups, and they often have specific areas of expertise. Such instances include:
- Designer and architect of outdoor spaces
- Landscaping Expert for Private Residences (shopping malls or office buildings)
An Example of a Landscaper’s Work
Landscape architects examine the existing landscape and environment to give recommendations and plan the construction of new design features. Landscaping professionals use the tools and materials at their disposal to complete their work in a wide range of settings. Weeding in the summer is replaced by snow blowing in the winter in various parts of the country. Therefore landscaping is a seasonal activity there.
These experts worry about getting hurt on the job because of how high the stakes are. They use both manual and powered equipment to clear away unwanted growth and care for the lawn and landscape elements. Landscapers often work outdoors in all kinds of weather and may be exposed to harmful chemicals and pesticides.
Before meeting with the client to discuss and budget landscaping jobs, landscape contractors often present proposals. It’s possible for clients to hire both landscapers and landscape architects or designers to realize their vision. Land preparation includes applying fertilizer and installing irrigation systems.
How to Get Started in the Landscaping Industry
Many of the abilities required of a landscaper are learned and honed on the job. There is no one true route to becoming a landscaper; however, the following three guidelines can help you get started:
Get a Diploma
Having a high school diploma or equivalent of one is usually required to find work as a gardener. In the event that you are still in school, complete your education by earning a high school diploma or equivalent and then thinking about enrolling in gardening or horticulture lessons. If you want to polish your landscaping abilities, you might want to join a gardening club at your school.
Acquire Landscaping Skills
If you want to study more about gardening, landscaping, tool use, and machinery operation, you might want to think about joining a group. Check to see if any local community colleges or extension offices offer courses for professional development.
If you want a job in landscaping, joining a gardening club or putting in some volunteer time at a public or botanical garden could be a good first step. By broadening your horizons, you can learn about new gardening methods and possibly identify your strongest areas of expertise.
Join an Apprenticeship Program
Most landscaping and gardening businesses in your area can point you in the direction of an apprenticeship program or at least provide you with some direction in the form of guidance. Find out who to speak with about making an inquiry into the company’s participation in mentorship or apprenticeship programs, and then put in an application.
Apprenticeships provide the practical instruction and work experience necessary to find and maintain a full-time, salaried job, and even a permanent one in some cases. It’s important to pick a profession that can help you develop marketable talents, such as
- Gardening diagrams and how to read them
- Sustainability and environmental consciousness
- Maintaining order and meeting deadlines
Skills Needed
Detail-Oriented
Professional landscapers take pride in their work and do it thoroughly. It’s the little things that make a difference. People’s eyes are drawn to the landscaping of a property as they approach homes or businesses. Everyone can see when a plan has been thoroughly thought out and is being maintained. You need to pay attention to every detail and not assume anything. Something that seems trivial to you could be of paramount importance to your client. To improve your designs and boost your company’s standing, focus on the finer points.
Customer Service
To succeed, a company needs to focus on its customers. Authorities will evaluate your abilities to fulfill clients. Therefore, as an employee, you play an important part in this. If you consistently go above and above for your clients, they will reward you with repeat business, recommendations, and positive reviews. Put out 100% effort to ensure that your client is happy. Be honest about your landscaping plan and be attentive to their needs.
Solid Work Ethic
A great landscape crew member is one who consistently puts in more hours than everyone else on the team. A hard worker who follows instructions well is a valuable asset to any company. Imagine you, too, are in charge of a group of workers. As a leader, you need to take an active role in all operations to maintain high morale and ensure that all employees receive adequate training. Don’t just stand there while the truck driver barks orders. The success of a company depends on the efforts of all of the employees working together.
Leadership Abilities Required
You need to be able to lead even if you don’t have a supervisory role. Prioritize customer service above all else within the organization. It means you have to be ready to help anyone who needs it, regardless of who they are. Treat everyone you meet with dignity and consideration. It is important to be a role model for your colleagues at all levels of the company.
Give Yourself Credit For Your Efforts
To put it simply, if you despise your work, you will fail at it. It is expected of you that you would give your all to each and every task you do. Your sense of accomplishment will permeate all of your actions. Customers, employees, and superiors will all take note of your efforts.
Closing Remarks
These are just a handful of the many skills necessary for a prosperous career in landscaping. Some of these traits may come more easily to you than others, but all of them require work. If an employee is excelling in a certain area in which you might use some assistance, take note of their actions and model your own conduct after theirs. You’ll soon become a complete landscaper who knows it all. Find out who we are and what we do by clicking here.
