Ever heard the phrase: "Build the plane while flying it" ?

That's often what it feels like we're doing when we implement changes at a small business. And after GROW! 2022, we know many of you are back home now with all these new ideas, working hard to implement the changes you know you need to make while also getting ready for the busy spring season. 

At GROW! 2022, Taylor Milliken of Milosi taught a session on change management, and his tips for implementing changes are so helpful as we all work through our own changes. 

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Run the Change through a Filter
Changes you make need to align with your core values and your goals as a company. At Milosi, they make sure that everything they do aligns with their core purpose: "Let's Grow Beautiful Together." They try to ask what the impact will be on both their clients and their team before they decide to implement a change. 

Overcome Fear
People fear change because of the unknown associated with it. Your team may be resistant to changes because they fear losing their title, pay, freedom, or responsibilities that they enjoy. You can combat this by showing your team what's in it for them: reassure them that these changes will benefit them and their peers.

Keep Both Client Satisfaction and Profitability in Mind
In a different session, Christianna Denelsbeck Rudder of Landscape Workshop shared a story about her dad's part-time job at a hardware store after he retired. She went to see him at work and used the restroom. After noticing the soap dispenser was empty, she let him know that someone should refill it. He told her no, the store is watching its numbers and they can't refill the soap dispenser because it will be an added cost. 

That store had put such a focus on profitability, it lost sight of customer service. In everything Landscape Workshop does, they try to balance improving profitability with also having happy customers. When implementing changes at your own company, make sure you aren't sacrificing either profitability or customer satisfaction. 

Prioritize the changes you want to make, run them through the filter, get buy-in, and then always remember to keep the basics in mind. As the busy season gets closer and closer, stay focused and keep up the hard work. Be a cheerleader for the changes you know need to happen, and support your team through them no matter your position in the company. It'll be worth it in the long run. 

Have a great week!
The Grow Group

P.S. We have a virtual workshop on March 18 dedicated to helping landscape pros prioritize and make the most of their time. If you need some help setting priorities, getting organized, and being more efficient with your time, join us online!

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