Navigating Business Challenges and Premium Positioning

This chapter explores the hurdles of business ownership, focusing on the challenges of employee retention and managing customer expectations. It emphasizes the need for businesses to differentiate themselves by offering unique value, enabling them to charge premium prices in a competitive landscape.

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#450 What does it take to go from cutting shrubs with your dad to designing luxury outdoor spaces for celebrities and high-net-worth clients? In this episode, Brien Gearin sits down with Steve Griggs, founder of Steve Griggs Design, who shares how he built a premium landscaping business in New York over the past 40 years. Steve opens up about his humble beginnings, the pivotal moment that forced him to change his business model, and how he grew from running crews himself to becoming a high-end outdoor design authority. He breaks down the subcontractor model that helped him scale profitably, why clear communication and doing what you say matters more than flashy marketing, and how to build lasting client relationships that drive repeat business. Whether you're new to the green industry or aiming to elevate your home services brand, this episode delivers real talk, hard-earned wisdom, and plenty of laughs along the way!

What we discuss with Steve:

+ Starting out cutting shrubs

+ Lessons from the 2008 crash

+ Scaling with subcontractors

+ Importance of client relationships

+ Spotting red flag clients

+ Pricing for profit and margin

+ Communicating clearly with customers

+ Working with high-profile clientele

+ Avoiding burnout and staying relevant

+ Knowing your numbers and costs

Thank you, Steve!