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7 Tips to Getting a Job in the Landscape Industry

2/22/2014

32 Comments

 
PictureThat'd be my UM bias -- Go Blue!
For the past several years, I've spent my February hiring my staff for the year.  With my recent decision to downsize the business and go back to school, this will be my first year in a few not spent weeding through resumes and interviewing prospective laborers.

And I have to say, it's not something that will be missed.  I've gained a fair amount of insight into what the labor force looks like out there, and while I won't go as far as to say I've seen it all, I will say I've seen enough to offer a few tips to anybody looking to join a crew for the year.

And I'd like to offer a few tips for anybody who thinks that a career, or even just a job, in the landscaping industry is for them.

1.  You're not special.  OK, maybe you are, but your prospective employer won't know that until you demonstrate what makes you special.  Expect to work.  Hard.  You will be lifting stones and heavy wheelbarrows and 80-lb bags of mortar and concrete.  You'll be digging.  And sledge-hammering.  And moving materials.  That's what we're paying you to do.  If you want the job, then don't think you're above the work.

2.  A few basics -- fix your alarm clock.  Make sure your car runs.  And has gas.  Make sure you don't have to drop your sister off at work unexpectedly.  Call your boss if something comes up, but don't make a habit of it.  You're not in high school or college anymore.  You're in the real world.  Skills to pay the bills is good, but it takes more than just skills.  It takes maturity and responsibility.

3.  Be respectful.  And own it.  When you show up to your interview, or get ready to go to work, give the impression that you can be trusted and that you respect yourself and the ones around you.  Those teardrop tattoos on your face won't put the homeowner with young children at ease.  If you smoke, don't expect to smoke on the site, in proximity to neighbors and young children.  The neighbors really don't want to hear your R-rated rap lyrics at full blast.  Or hear you continuously dropping f-bombs.  Do what you want at home on your own time, but when you're at the job, you're representing me and the company. 

4.  Remember this -- labor expense is one of, if not THE, biggest expense a company incurs.  For every hard-earned dollar you receive, it's far more out of your employer's pocket once you factor in unemployment insurance, workers compensation, etc.  If I'm shelling out that kind of cash, you'd better be earning it.  Because if/when I need to cut expenses, it's the slackers on the crew who are the first to go.

5.  Play the game.  I'm not one for busy work just for busy work sake, but I'm REALLY not one to pay you for doing nothing.  If you don't have something to do on a site, then find something.  I've always been big on telling my crews there's always something to do on a site.  You finished moving the bricks I asked you to move?  Great.  You better not just be sitting around waiting for me to tell you something else to do.  Find something to do.  Pick up a broom.  Organize the tools.  Empty the trash.  I may re-assign you to another task once I see you're done, but I'd rather ask you to put down the broom than find you sitting around playing on your phone.  If nothing else, pick up a tool so at least you look like you might be busy.  Nothing looks worse to the public than a crew of guys sitting around blatantly doing nothing.

6.  Learn.  Ask questions.  Show an interest or commitment.  One of the first things out of my mouth at any interview is the fact that I'm not looking for guys who know how to do everything, but rather for guys (or girls) who are responsible, trustworthy, dependable.  I can teach the skills, but the responsibility and interest can only come from one place -- you.

7.  Think.  It is quite rare that any project or task goes exactly as you plan.  Yes, the planning process is important to help eliminate surprises, but they will still happen.  And when they do, the workers who can effectively solve the problem will be the ones that get recognized.  Figure out what the best way to conserve materials is.  Think about how the job you're doing could be done better with a more appropriate tool.  Think about the impact any task may have on tools, supplies, the surrounding area of the yard.  If one cut creates a tremendous amount of debris that needs to be cleaned up and uses up material that could have been used more efficiently for other projects, then it probably wasn't a good use of time or materials.  As the boss, I'm thinking two or three steps ahead on just about anything I'm doing.  If you do too, it will certainly leave a favorable impression.

Truth be told, these tips go a lot farther than just looking for a job in the landscaping industry.  It's a good blueprint for getting (and keeping) a job period.


32 Comments
Victor link
2/25/2014 01:54:32 am

Very well put Clark! I once had a guy tell me if I pay him more he would work harder, he received his pink slip that Friday. If you are not doing your best for your employer and the customers they service how could you possibly think you are worthy of a raise?

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Remodeling contractor link
7/17/2018 10:41:53 am

There are a lot of jobs which will be considered as hectic and we can add in property ownership in this. Whether you own an workplace complex renting to businesses or a condo renting to tenants the strain of so many individuals will usually prove to be overwhelming.

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website link
6/29/2020 02:07:35 am

More landscaping thoughts I have found and generating the useful techniques and topics as well basically sharing us garden designs. We can find here a lot of thoughts on landscaping solutions.

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Tex Hooper link
1/11/2022 11:26:14 am

I appreciate what you said about making sure that you organize the tools properly. I need to get a landscaper to trim the hedges of my lawn. I'll have to hire someone who has good online reviews.

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Tex Hooper link
5/26/2022 06:14:21 pm

I like your landscaping tips. I need to get a crew to manage my lawn. I don't have the tools to do it myself.

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Tex Hooper link
8/25/2022 03:07:45 pm

You make a great point about how the planning process should be done in the mind of conserving materials. I need to hire a landscaper to help with my layout. I want to put in a stone pathway.

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Landscaper link
8/22/2023 10:56:44 pm

These valuable tips offer insights for success in the landscape industry, emphasizing hard work, responsibility, respect, and problem-solving skills. Great advice for any job seeker.

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landscapers in Edmonton link
8/23/2023 09:44:51 pm

An excellent resource for prospective landscape architects! landscapers in Edmonton The blog does a good job of highlighting how competitive the industry is and offers a strong starting point for anyone hoping to make a name for themselves and land a rewarding landscaping profession.

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landscape Design link
10/20/2023 06:48:22 am

These are invaluable insights for anyone aspiring to work in the landscaping industry. The emphasis on hard work, responsibility, and professionalism is crucial. It's refreshing to see an employer highlight the importance of respecting the job, colleagues, and the company's reputation. These tips serve as a valuable guide for individuals looking to excel in this field.




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Simon Conley link
11/4/2023 09:52:18 am

Lovelly blog you have here

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local masonry contractor link
12/16/2023 12:49:47 am

Mesquite Masonry was developed to provide you with a better contractor experience.

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landscape Design link
1/16/2024 03:55:29 am

This is a fantastic read for anyone considering a career in landscaping! As a seasoned professional, I really appreciate the emphasis on hard work, responsibility, and continuous learning. These tips are not just practical, they're essential for thriving in this industry. It's a great reminder that success comes from effort and attitude.

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Steve Smith link
2/16/2024 08:46:11 pm

It's great that this article talked about how commitment is important to provide the best design approach. My cousin told me the other night that he and his business partners were looking for an irrigation installation that could provide a detailed appearance and function for their property. He asked if I had any idea what would be the best option to consider. Thanks to this helpful irrigation guide article for the best planning approach. I'll be sure to tell him that it will be much better if he consults trusted commercial irrigation system installation services as they can provide more information about the process of the installation.

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Johnny Marks link
2/24/2024 08:53:44 pm

The emphasis on problem-solving skills in any project resonates with me. It's true, no matter how meticulously we plan, unexpected challenges always pop up. Being proactive and finding effective solutions not only saves time and resources but also showcases our ability to adapt. Thanks for sharing these insights! I'll definitely keep them in mind, not just in my job search but in my overall approach to work.

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Josh Hill link
7/2/2024 07:29:21 am

Alyssa, your blog post on the important traits of successful electricians is insightful and comprehensive. You've addressed key challenges and provided practical solutions that can truly help electricians enhance their careers. The emphasis on marketing, licensing, and customer service are especially relevant in today's competitive landscape. Thank you for sharing such valuable advice!

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Get in Touch link
7/5/2024 07:47:11 am

Thank you for sharing these valuable insights, especially for those looking to enter the landscaping industry. Your tips are practical and grounded, reflecting real-world expectations and responsibilities. I appreciate the emphasis on hard work, reliability, and continuous learning. These principles are indeed crucial for success in any field. Your experience and straightforward advice make this a must-read for anyone considering a career in landscaping. Go Blue!

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roofers link
7/9/2024 10:36:27 am

This is a fantastic post, and it truly shows your deep experience and understanding of the landscaping industry. Your no-nonsense advice and emphasis on hard work, responsibility, and respect are valuable for anyone looking to enter the workforce. It's clear that you've put a lot of thought into what makes a successful employee, and your tips are practical and insightful. Thank you for sharing your expertise, and best of luck with your studies and future endeavors!

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More info link
7/26/2024 03:34:29 am

Thank you for sharing these insightful tips, especially from someone with firsthand experience in the landscape industry. Your advice is practical and no-nonsense, making it clear what is expected from job seekers. I appreciate the emphasis on hard work, responsibility, and continuous learning. It's a great reminder that success in any job requires dedication and a proactive mindset. Your candid approach and willingness to share these truths are truly valuable for anyone entering the workforce.

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canton ga landscaping link
7/31/2024 04:46:35 am

Great insights on what it takes to thrive in the landscaping industry! I couldn’t agree more with the emphasis on hard work, responsibility, and continuous learning. At Peach Tree Landscaping Services in Canton, GA, we value these qualities highly, especially when it comes to our tree removal and landscaping projects. If anyone is looking for a reliable team that embodies these principles, feel free to check us out. Keep up the great work sharing valuable tips!

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Jessica link
8/8/2024 07:29:59 am

Thank you for sharing these insightful tips on breaking into the landscaping industry. It’s great to see such practical advice that not only helps with getting a job but also with maintaining a successful career.

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roofers link
8/26/2024 07:52:06 am

Wow, this post is incredibly insightful! I used to work in landscaping, and the advice about respect and responsibility really resonates with me—those were definitely key factors in my success. Thanks to the author for sharing such practical tips; they’re not just valuable for the landscaping industry but for any job.

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Carpenters link
8/27/2024 05:49:07 am

This blog post really resonated with me. Having spent a couple of summers working in landscaping, I can definitely relate to the hard work and responsibility emphasized here. The author's practical tips are spot-on, especially the one about showing initiative—it's something I learned the hard way! Thanks for sharing these valuable insights, they truly capture what it takes to succeed in this industry.

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https://monarcaconstructionremodel.com link
8/27/2024 07:35:33 pm

This post really resonated with me, especially point #6 about the importance of learning and asking questions. I remember my first job in landscaping; I didn’t know much at the start, but by showing a genuine interest, I quickly gained the trust of my boss and learned invaluable skills on the job. Kudos to the author for sharing these straightforward yet essential tips—it’s clear you’ve gained a lot of wisdom from your experiences!

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Explore our services link
9/4/2024 06:39:33 am

Great blog post! Your insights into the landscaping industry are spot-on. I especially appreciated the emphasis on respect and responsibility—I've seen firsthand how those traits make a huge difference on the job. Your advice is practical and down-to-earth, and it really resonated with my experiences in the field. Thanks for sharing your wisdom!

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Roofing Beverley link
1/23/2025 05:32:10 am

Thanks for sharing these practical tips! It's refreshing to get real advice on what it takes to succeed in the landscaping industry. Definitely something job seekers should read.

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Pitched Roof link
1/31/2025 03:01:21 am

Thanks for sharing these valuable tips! Practical advice for anyone looking to join the landscaping industry and beyond. Hard work and responsibility truly make a difference.

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Slate Roof link
2/25/2025 03:23:20 am

Thanks for sharing this! Your tips are practical and insightful for anyone looking to enter the landscaping industry. Hard work and responsibility are key!

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Chimney Repairs near me link
2/25/2025 04:01:37 am

Great insights into what it takes to succeed in the landscaping field! The emphasis on respect and continuous learning is crucial for any job seeker.

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Roofing Anlaby link
3/10/2025 05:39:40 am

Thanks for sharing this! I appreciate the honest perspective—this is a refreshing reminder of the reality of hard work in the landscaping industry.

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Flat Roof Repairs link
3/10/2025 06:02:34 am

Your insights into hiring and the labor market are valuable—those tips will surely help anyone exploring the landscaping field!

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Roof Repairs Hedon, East Riding of Yorkshire link
4/10/2025 02:21:18 am

Very insightful! These tips are gold for anyone serious about joining a landscaping crew.

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christen senronniea link
7/11/2025 10:00:42 pm

Great tips! This post offers valuable advice for anyone looking to break into the landscape industry. It’s clear, practical, and covers everything from skills to mindset. Thanks for sharing!

Reply



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    Clark Kent Creations, LLC is a full-service landscape construction company servicing the Pennsylvania communities of Delaware County, Chester County, The Main Line, and the University City, Art Museum, and Manayunk/Roxborough neighborhoods of Philadelphia.  In addition to this blog page, additional information regarding the company and our services can be found on the subsequent pages of the site.
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    Author

    Clark Linderman is the president of Clark Kent Creations, LLC, a landscape construction company based in Swarthmore, PA.  He is a proud graduate of the University of Michigan.  In addition to his passion for all things outdoors, he counts Michigan football, Phillies baseball, Superman memorabilia, Memphis R&B music, and good craft brews among his many interests.  He currently resides in Swarthmore with his wife, Sheila, two sons, his dog Krypto, and a really, really messy garage full of work supplies and toys.

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    Contact Us:
    Clark Kent Creations, LLC
    Swarthmore, PA
    Design and Construction to Maximize Your Outdoor Experience

    707-290-9410
    [email protected]
    Serving Delaware County, PA

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