Hello All.
Due to a change in my work circumstances, I entered the world of garden maintenance by accident so to speak. Starting in June this year, I have built a small but sustainable business that has kept my head afloat in these challenging times. There is no easy formula, but here are some of my tips , many of which are common sense! I am now winding down for the winter, but looking ahead to next year already.
1. Take every bit of work from day one and be prepared for a low rate and even some extra work for nothing. Gradually increase your rates and be prepared to drop customers.
2. Be punctual and reliable Sounds obvious, but this is a big reason for people to change gardeners
3. Use your own vehicle to start with Don't worry about image. It is surprising what you can get in a hatchback. Keep your overheads to a minimum.
4. Get an online accounts package for about £15 per month. You can then give out professional looking estimates.
5. Only buy new equipment and it will not let you down. Also, only invest when you have a guaranteed job that will cover say 20% of its initial cost.
6. Leave some slack in your diary. This will cover job overruns and bad weather. You will soon find your sweet spot and have some spare time to get organised. I am 60 next year and gardening is hard work on your body. It's got me fit, but be realistic!
7. Take notice of the experience on this website and good luck.
Nigel Rawlins
Chipstead Garden Services
Views: 406
Replies
Well done
Good advice and a good post
Best of luck next year, hopefully you will go from strength to strength
Yes very encouraging and practical advice .
I would also highly recommend doing some physical activity to keep match fit if taking a Winter break as trying to get back in stride come spring can be a painful experience for the muscles and joints .
All good points, however I must say I have picked up some fantastic second hand bargains on equipment, depends what it is really
... just avoid anything thats been used commercially and "ex council" as one Ebayer regularly used to say. ... though you do get the odd exception I know.