Last month, I presented my interpretation of what a true professional is, using an analogy of a four-legged stool. One of those legs happens to be hard work. Frankly, it’s hard work to start a business, to maintain a business, and to be a consummate professional, even in the best of times. In more challenging times, such as we’re all currently experiencing, these tasks become even more difficult.
It’s my feeling, however, that through hard work and being professional in other ways, strong companies will survive, maybe even thrive, in one of the most troubling recessions in recent memory. How, you ask? The answer lies in part with having key leaders who make the tough decisions, are cautious about carrying too much debt, and maintain strong client relationships. This combination helps to differentiate strong, professional organizations from lesser ones.
With that said, even the best, most professionally run companies will likely need some outside help to carry the day. Unfortunately, this help will not come from government stimulus programs that target the financial sector and larger, troubled corporations. The truth is our industry will need to generate its own stimulus package. That’s where PLANET can help.
Already, the PLANET staff is developing informative webinars with Jim Paluch designed to help members handle tough, economic challenges. This fall, the Green Industry Conference will feature educational tracks aimed again at helping attendees navigate an economic “perfect storm.” Lest we forget, PLANET also has numerous affinity programs that can literally save members hundreds of dollars right now. Our company, Nature’s Select, has taken advantage of two such programs (with JOHN DEERE and Staples) in the past two years, and they have more than paid for our yearly membership dues.
This month the PLANET leadership team will be in Washington State at the annual Summer Leadership Meeting. Top on our agenda will be fashioning an even more lean and effective association so we can continue to add value to the membership experience. Part of this effort will target ways PLANET can work with the industry to further advocate the benefit of green spaces and help members take advantage of the larger movement toward a more sustainable environment.
Opportunities are out there. As business owners and entrepreneurs, this is not the time to be negative. Yes, we have to roll up our sleeves, continue to work hard, and be creative about finding ways to keep costs down, productivity up, and customers satisfied that they are getting good value for their dollars. Don’t forget, though, that you’re not in this alone. PLANET has the programs, staff, consultants, and Trailblazers to help us get through to better times.
One last thought. Our company enjoyed a great spring. We’ve been in the field with our own stimulus package promoting healthy turf and landscapes. Yes, we’ve been running a little leaner and working a little harder than in the past, but we’re sustaining our company, our employees, and our customers’ properties. It can be done, if we work together and put our professional attitude to work for us.
Bill Hildebolt, Ph.D., CTP, CTP-CSL
PLANET President
