The outbreak of the recent coronavirus has brought countless businesses to a temporary halt, and landscaping businesses are no exception. This time during the pandemic has caused customers to become even more concerned about saving money and accepting visitors to their homes. People are also trying to follow government mandates and safety protocols being implemented in their communities. While movement may be limited, this doesn't mean you can no longer serve your customers. In fact, these trying times can provide an excellent opportunity for businesses like yours to remind your customers that they are valued. So how can landscape professionals like you support customers in this time of a pandemic?
Keep communication lines open
With all of the uncertainty happening worldwide, it's more important than ever to keep communication lines open. You need to be sure your customers are aware of what's happening in their community. Provide updates about the services you're able to deliver and whether or not you're operating at full capacity. Use various social media channels and other digital innovations you have in place to give your clients regular updates.
Additionally, be receptive to your customers' feedback. When customers feel uncertain, it's more important than ever that you help them feel valued and heard. Showing that you care about their opinions becomes even more significant when people worry about the safety of their families and property during this time. Ask for feedback and find out if there's anything else that a landscape professional like you can do for them.
Make sure your contact information is up-to-date
You never know when your customers will need to contact you. That’s why it’s so crucial that your contact information on your website, social media channels, and other platforms are all updated.
Don't let distance deter you from offering support, even if it's something as simple as checking in and asking about any new developments regarding the virus or government mandates related to lawns/gardens. This type of gesture can go a long way in restoring hope and reassuring people that not everything has come to a grinding halt.
Help your customers embrace their outdoor space
During a stressful time like this, it's more important than ever to find ways to alleviate anxiety. When people are concerned about leaving home due to health and safety precautions, it’s an excellent opportunity for you to offer friendly reminders about the joys of having an outdoor living space. Invite your customers to think about what types of gardening needs they may have for their yards. Whether they intend to plant some flowers or shrubs, put up new fencing, or even install a pond, there are plenty of simple projects that can make all the difference in making someone feel more at ease.
Encourage creativity, like suggesting adding interesting plants. Use your knowledge as a landscape professional to offer helpful tips on how people can maintain their gardens and turn them into zen areas. Not only is this an excellent chance to highlight the relevance of your business in the community, but it’s also a great way to help people see how your expertise in the industry can come in handy during this critical time.
Consider offering virtual services
If your business is unable to provide lawn care or landscaping services due to the pandemic, offer clients a virtual alternative. This may include options like sending them plants that are easy to care for or suggesting designs and layouts they can implement themselves with items from their home store. There might be customers who still want to give their landscape a makeover. So make sure your team remains available to provide services, even via virtual consultation.
Avoid cancellations
Make it a point to provide your customers with the reassurance that you'll stick with them through this challenging time. Work hard to avoid any cancellation requests. You can do so by sending an email or text message reminding them of your commitment, telling them about all the measures you're taking to stay safe while still serving clients. A simple gesture like this will go a long way in reassuring people that they’re not alone during these trying times.
Regardless of the size of your business, there are plenty of ways you can use your expertise l and knowledge as a landscape professional to continue serving and helping customers. These acts of kindness can help strengthen the bond within your community and, at the same time, build customer loyalty down the road.
If you need quality equipment or replacement parts for your landscaping equipment, feel free to contact MowMore.