The Limitless Landscapers Podcast The Landscaper's Circle

In this week’s episode, I want to share my interesting journey, starting back in my early days in retail sales and eventually moving up to sales manager in a gym. I loved working in health and fitness, especially with the free access to gym facilities. My career took off there, and I learned a lot about managing staff and hitting sales targets. Fast forward to now, I’m applying those skills to my current business, Aura Landscapes.



Recently, I’ve been working into our figures with Annmaree, our fantastic admin lady. We’ve been analysing profitability by looking at different teams and setting KPIs, which are key performance indicators. These KPIs help us understand how much money each team is bringing in and, more importantly, the profit margins. We’re also looking at job costings to see if we’re staying within budget and how efficient we are.



I’ve noticed that our soft landscaping team, for example, has some inefficiencies. They spend a lot of time driving between jobs, which isn’t billable. To fix this, we’re thinking about better scheduling and possibly changing work hours. It’s all about finding ways to be more efficient without compromising on service quality.



One big change is that I’m stepping back into a more hands-on sales management role. We’ve set up weekly sales meetings every Tuesday with key team members. These meetings are designed to review figures, set goals, and discuss how I can support the team better. It’s about holding everyone accountable and ensuring we hit our targets.



In these meetings, I’ll be asking for weekly job costings, sales figures, and site visit reports. This information will help us track performance and identify areas for improvement. I’m also interested in how many quotes have been sent and followed up on, and the conversion rates from these quotes.



To maximise our efficiency, we’ve also implemented trackers on our vans and a timesheet app. This helps us monitor how time is spent and ensures accurate job costing. It’s crucial for understanding how much time is billable and how much is lost to things like driving.

Marketing efforts are also a big focus. Each team member is encouraged to engage in activities like networking and distributing leaflets. I handle the broader marketing strategy, but their input is valuable for generating new ideas. We’re also working on building our email list and creating referral campaigns.



Overall, I’m excited about these changes. Stepping back into a sales manager role feels right, and it’s essential for driving our business forward. By staying organised, holding regular meetings, and focusing on both sales and profitability, I’m confident we can grow Aura Landscapes successfully. Sales are the lifeblood of any business, and with a clear focus and strategy, we can achieve great things!



The Landscaper’s Coach & Podcast

Call us on: 02381 800 102

Email: paula@thelandscaperscoach.co.uk

Send us a DM on Instagram with any questions you might have @thelimitlesslandscaperspodcast.

Follow TLC on Instagram: @TheLandscapersCoach

Follow our Podcast on Instagram: @thelimitlesslandscaperspodcast

Follow me! Paula Warman on Instagram: @warmanpaula

Website: https://www.thelandscaperscoach.co.uk 

This week’s topic is about Systems, which might seem boring or overwhelming at first, but they are absolutely essential for running a successful business. I want to share my personal experiences with implementing systems in my landscaping business. Hopefully, this will help you make some positive changes in your own business.



Recently, I hired Nicola De Piazzi, a systemologist, to help me figure out what systems we need and how to implement them. This made the process a bit easier, although there's still plenty of work to do. One key takeaway from Nicola was that many of our business problems are due to a lack of systems. If we document and follow systems, many issues can be prevented.



If you're like me, you might find the idea of documenting all your systems overwhelming. But you’ve got to start somewhere. My advice is to begin by listing all your services and mapping out the process from inquiry to sale. This will give you a basic framework. It’s important to brainstorm with your team about what tasks can be systemised, then develop and test these systems regularly.



Setting aside time each week to work on systems is crucial. It’s not just about creating them; you also need to ensure they are followed by your team. Making systems easy to access and attractive to use is essential. Remember, the goal is for the systems to run the business, while the people run the systems.



Systems are not just about making daily operations smoother. They allow you to step back from the business when needed. Whether it’s taking a holiday or dealing with an emergency, well-documented systems ensure that your business continues to function smoothly in your absence. This is especially important if you plan to grow or eventually sell your business.



One thing to keep in mind is that if your team is constantly asking the same questions, it’s a sign that you need a system in place to address those issues. This empowers your staff to find answers on their own and improves overall performance. It also aligns everyone with the business goals.

Think about the future vision for your business. If you plan to grow and expand, having systems in place is non-negotiable. They make onboarding new staff easier and ensure everyone is on the same page. For me, having systems in place is the only way to achieve my vision of stepping back from the day-to-day operations eventually.



Systems are the key to solving many business problems, growing your business, and achieving a better work-life balance. If you feel overwhelmed or need support, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to help you streamline your operations and take your business to the next level.



The Landscaper’snCoach & Podcast

Call us on: 02381 800 102

Email: paula@thelandscaperscoach.co.uk

Send us a DM on Instagram with any questions you might have @thelimitlesslandscaperspodcast.

Follow TLC on Instagram: @TheLandscapersCoach

Follow our Podcast on Instagram: @thelimitlesslandscaperspodcast

Follow me! Paula Warman on Instagram: @warmanpaula

Website: https://www.thelandscaperscoach.co.uk 

This week’s episode is about making big decisions in small businesses.

First, a quick update on Aura Landscapes, the business I run with my husband, Mike. We've been doing this for 14 years now, and, as many of you know, it’s been quite a journey. Recently, we've added a skilled landscaper and a new in-house garden designer, also named Mike. We've also taken on a couple of apprentices.

However, not all changes have gone smoothly. We hired another team member who didn't stay long, so Mike had to pick up the extra work. This meant he was working full-time on the tools and often away from home, which affected family time and left him very tired.

It all came to a head recently when Mike said he was fed up with the lack of time to work on the business, spend time with the family, or enjoy his personal interests. He was thinking about cancelling a long-term contract to free up his time. This contract has been a reliable source of income, so his suggestion was quite serious. I advised him to consider all options before making such a big decision.

We thought about different solutions, such as rescheduling jobs to allow for more breaks, sharing work among team members, and focusing on closer projects to reduce travel time. It was important to look at all these options rather than make a quick decision.

We've noticed that growth in our business tends to follow a cycle. It’s like a rollercoaster, both in terms of success and the personal toll it takes. These cycles repeat, often bringing the same challenges until we address the root problems. For us, many of these challenges relate to systems and processes.

We’re currently working with Nicola De Piazzi, a systemologist, to put effective systems and processes in place. The goal is to separate ourselves from daily operations, allowing the business to run smoothly without our constant involvement. This shift will enable us to focus more on planning and strategy, which is essential for long-term growth.

We've also learned from past experiences, like our recent attempt to expand our hard landscaping teams. We quickly realised that adding more teams wasn’t the right move at the time. Instead, we decided to focus on improving our current teams and possibly expanding our soft landscaping team, where we see more potential for manageable growth.

HR and health and safety have also been areas of focus. Outsourcing these aspects to Annmaree has made our hiring process easier and ensured compliance, making growth more manageable.

One of my favourite recent initiatives has been setting KPIs and closely monitoring our numbers. This approach has provided valuable insights into how we can increase efficiency and profitability. Our new garden designer, Mike, has also contributed fresh ideas for improving our systems and processes.

Lastly, I encourage all of you to think about your role within your business and how you can delegate tasks you dislike. This delegation can revive your passion and free up time for strategic planning. Whether you love site visits, like one of my clients, or prefer project management, like my husband, it’s about structuring your business to suit your strengths and interests.

Remember, being a small business owner is incredibly rewarding despite the challenges. You have the power to create the life you want, make impactful decisions quickly, and adapt as needed.


The Landscaper’s Coach & Podcast

Call us on: 02381 800 102

Email: paula@thelandscaperscoach.co.uk

Send us a DM on Instagram with any questions you might have @thelimitlesslandscaperspodcast.

Follow TLC on Instagram: @TheLandscapersCoach

Follow our Podcast on Instagram: @thelimitlesslandscaperspodcast

Follow me! Paula Warman on Instagram: @warmanpaula

Website: https://www.thelandscaperscoach.co.uk 

For this week's episode, I want to talk about something that hit me during my recent check-in with my personal trainer. It’s something I think is incredibly relevant to both my coaching clients and anyone out there working with a coach.



As many of you know, I’m an aspiring bodybuilder, and that means I have to follow a strict plan laid out by my trainer. Each week, I complete a check-in form that asks about my week, my achievements, struggles, what I’m grateful for, what I need to work on, and if I need any help. I’m always 100% honest because I know that honesty is very important for achieving my goals. Alongside this, I take progress photos and compare them week by week before sending everything to my coach.



After I submit my check-in, my coach sends me feedback via a Loom video. She tweaks my plan, offers advice, and sets new tasks. This week, I’m actually having an in-person check-in with her, which is even more beneficial. We can tweak exercises and poses in real-time and have a thorough discussion about my progress.



Why Check-Ins Are Essential

The reason I’m sharing this process is because it’s something I also stress with my coaching clients. Many people sign up for coaching but fail to check in regularly. I always prompt my clients, asking about their progress and any issues they might be facing. Regular check-ins are vital for accountability. Without them, there’s no one to hold you accountable, which can lead to stagnation.



For my clients who do check in regularly, I provide quick responses and the support they need, whether it’s an extra call, templates, assistance with writing, or links to useful resources. I’m also there to celebrate their wins or give them a push when needed.



The Impact of Skipping Check-Ins

If you don’t check in with your coach, you’re doing yourself a disservice. Regular check-ins allow you to have honest conversations, receive necessary feedback, and make crucial adjustments. For example, my recent check-in led to my coach removing 30 minutes of cardio from my plan because I’m making good progress. If I hadn’t checked in, I would’ve continued with an unnecessary and exhausting routine.



Applying This to Your Business

This principle applies to business coaching as well. Regular check-ins help you stay on track and ensure you’re supported properly. It allows your coach to provide timely feedback and make necessary adjustments to your plan. Between our monthly coaching sessions, it’s up to you to reach out and keep the momentum going. Without regular updates, you might not make the progress you want or feel supported.



So, here’s my challenge to you: if you have a coach, check in regularly. Be open and honest about your struggles and successes. Ask for the help you need and engage actively with your coach. If you’re my client, expect a new check-in protocol every week because I believe it will enhance your coaching experience and help you achieve your goals faster. Take full advantage of the support and guidance available to you. Your future self will thank you for it.



The Landscaper’sCoach & Podcast

Call us on: 02381800 102

Email: paula@thelandscaperscoach.co.uk

Send us a DM on Instagram with any questions you might have @thelimitlesslandscaperspodcast.

Follow TLC on Instagram: @TheLandscapersCoach

Follow our Podcast on Instagram: @thelimitlesslandscaperspodcast

Follow me! Paula Warman on Instagram: @warmanpaula

Website: https://www.thelandscaperscoach.co.uk 

In my latest podcast episode, I open up about a topic many of us tend to avoid: mental health. I share my own experiences with anxiety, panic attacks, and postnatal depression because I believe it's essential to shed light on these sensitive subjects. It's something that's close to my heart, having faced challenges in my own life and within my team.



My journey with mental health began when I was a sales manager, feeling overwhelmed by the pressure to hit targets. The stress led to anxiety and panic attacks, making me feel like I was having a heart attack. Despite loving my job, the constant pressure took its toll on my mental well-being.



I found myself struggling again after giving birth to my children, experiencing postnatal depression. I felt a deep rage and resentment, even towards my loved ones. It was a difficult time, juggling motherhood, renovations, and business responsibilities while battling my own mental health issues.



Seeking help was crucial for me. I attended counselling sessions and, at times, relied on antidepressants. While medication provided temporary relief, it was counselling that truly helped me understand and manage my thoughts and feelings in the long term.

Through my journey, I've learned the importance of self-care and prioritising mental health. I now make time for activities that bring me joy and reduce stress, like going to the gym and spending time with loved ones. It's about finding balance and not letting work consume every aspect of my life.



As a mental health first aider, I'm committed to supporting others who may be struggling. Whether it's offering resources or simply lending an empathetic ear, I believe in creating a supportive environment where people feel safe to talk about their mental health.

It's clear that mental health issues are prevalent, especially in the wake of the pandemic. By speaking openly and honestly about my experiences, I hope to encourage others to seek help and prioritise their well-being. Remember, you're not alone, and there are resources and support available to help you through tough times.



So, if you're struggling with your mental health, don't hesitate to reach out for help. You deserve to live a life that's not overshadowed by anxiety or depression. Let's work together to break down the stigma surrounding mental health and create a world where everyone feels supported and understood.





The Landscaper’s Coach & Podcast

Call us on: 02381 800 102

Email: paula@thelandscaperscoach.co.uk

Send us a DM on Instagram with any questions you might have @thelimitlesslandscaperspodcast.

Follow TLC on Instagram: @TheLandscapersCoach

Follow our Podcast on Instagram: @thelimitlesslandscaperspodcast

Follow me! Paula Warman on Instagram: @warmanpaula

Website: https://www.thelandscaperscoach.co.uk 

Welcome to another exciting episode of the Limitless Landscapers podcast. Today, we're talking about business performance management and setting standards.



Now, onto the real talk. I recently had a pow-wow with my amazing admin assistant, Annmaree, who's been an absolute game-changer in my business. Having her onboard has lightened my load and allowed us to focus on fine-tuning our operations. One big focus? Monitoring financial performance and setting clear targets.



So, why all the fuss about KPIs? Well, let me break it down for you. We're talking cold, hard cash, people! Sales, profits, the whole shebang. Because let's face it, if you're not making moolah, your business ain't gonna last long. And that's where KPIs come in handy – they give you a bird's eye view of your financial performance, so you can course-correct before it's too late.



Now, let me hit you with a real-life example. We're crunching numbers, looking at job costs and BAM! We uncover a sneaky little problem – turns out, our job estimates were way off because we forgot to factor in the logistics. That's the beauty of KPIs – they shine a spotlight on areas that need a bit of TLC, so you can tighten up your game and keep those profits rolling in.



But wait, there's more! Let's rewind to my days as a sales manager. Picture me, rallying the troops, hitting targets left, right, and centre. How did we do it? You guessed it – KPIs! Clear goals, regular check-ins, and a sprinkle of tough love when needed. It's all about keeping your team on their toes and making sure everyone's pulling their weight.



Now, I know what you're thinking – managing performance can be a bit daunting, right? Especially in the wild world of landscaping, where skilled staff are as rare as a sunny day in December. With a solid set of KPIs in your toolkit, you'll be steering your business towards success faster than you can say "green thumb".



So, here's the bottom line: whether you're a one-person operation or a full-blown landscaping empire, KPIs are your secret weapon for smashing goals, boosting profits, and building a business that's as strong as an oak tree. So go ahead, embrace the power of KPIs, and watch your business bloom like never before!



The Landscaper’s Coach & Podcast

Call us on: 02381 800 102

Email: paula@thelandscaperscoach.co.uk

Send us a DM on Instagram with any questions you might have @thelimitlesslandscaperspodcast.

Follow
TLC on Instagram: @TheLandscapersCoach

Follow our Podcast on Instagram: @thelimitlesslandscaperspodcast

Follow me! Paula Warman on Instagram: @warmanpaula

Website: https://www.thelandscaperscoach.co.uk