Earlier this week, I was joined on The Grow Show, powered by STIHL, by Keith Bowman from McHale Landscape Design to talk about his career in the landscaping industry, the company's approach to business, and everything that makes them successful. 

There were so many golden nuggets of wisdom in this interview that you really should go listen to or watch the whole thing, but I wanted to highlight one thing he said specifically:

"Customer service doesn't add overhead. If you want to build up your team's customer service, you're not adding a truck payment." 

Basically: it doesn't cost anything extra to be kind, have a positive attitude, show empathy, or own problems when something doesn't go right. Great customer service wins McHale Landscape Design business, and it's been a key part of their success. 

This isn't a new concept for many of us, but I think the way Keith said it really drives home the importance of the right attitude. As we're all dealing with the issues that come along with the busy-season, I think it's the perfect time for this reminder. So how do we offer great customer service? We remember:

• If it's important to them, it's important to us
• To keep our own attitude and emotions in check
• To take a moment when we feel our patience running thin
• That it's ok to say "Let me check on that and get back to you"

There will be so much for us to learn from the McHale Landscape Design team when we're onsite with them on September 23-24. We'll tour their headquarters, learn directly from their team, and also have great networking time with our fellow attendees. Are you signed up to join us yet? I'd love to see you there! 

Marty Grunder
Founder & CEO
The Grow Group & Grunder Landscaping Co.