Delayed invoicing, inadequate preparation, and miscommunication… a lot can still go wrong after a landscaping proposal is signed!
However, you can avoid these pitfalls by streamlining your sales-to-service handoff. It improves both internal efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Our clients have found ways to improve their current processes and utilize a partnership with Landscape LeadershipⓇ to help them implement the right landscaping sales tools and strategies.
Image Source: Monarch Landscape Management
In our previous articles, we showed you how to Slam Dunk Your Consultations and gave you Power Moves From Consultation to Sold.
This article will take you a step further, highlighting four improvements you can make after you close a sale.
All of these elements can be built with the HubSpot platform and its integrated tools.
1. Internal Notifications When a Proposal is Signed
What happens if a signed proposal is overlooked by the person or department responsible for it?
By falling through the cracks, you get a late start on invoicing and scheduling which not only impacts customer satisfaction but internal efficiency.
Image Source: Lawn & Pest Solutions
One of the things you could do is send an instant notification to all relevant team members the moment a proposal is signed.
Whether you just won a design-build project or a maintenance contract, the sooner key people on your team are notified, the better.
Automatic notifications ensure:
- Invoicing is generated without delay, securing your cash flow.
- Jobs are scheduled efficiently, respecting both client expectations and your team's availability by communicating a soft start date and then touching base again when a firm date is set.
- Labor, materials, and equipment are allocated properly, avoiding last-minute scrambles.
2. Automated Project Kickoff Emails (to Client)
Creating excitement and setting clear expectations for upcoming work is vital. An automated project kickoff email can serve multiple purposes: it informs clients about what’s next, introduces them to their primary point of contact, and provides essential details about the process.
These emails can also function as a new customer onboarding workflow, delivering important information that can enhance their experience.
HubSpot’s email automation tools allow you to craft and schedule these messages, ensuring that every new client receives a consistent and engaging introduction to your services.
[RELATED READING: 3 Communication Automation Tools to Transform Your Landscaping Business]
3. Quality Assurance Check-ins
Ensuring client satisfaction is the key to gaining referrals and repeat business.
A simple yet effective way to achieve this is by sending out a quality assurance survey while the project is underway instead of only when the project is complete. This feedback is extremely valuable.
Image Source: Tropical Gardens Landscape
Negative responses can help you address issues as they're happening instead of being surprised later by a nasty online review.
Plus, if clients are happy, this may be a great time to ask them to add to your positive online reviews.
[RELATED READING: The Good, the Bad, & the Ugly of Online Reviews]
4. Automated Renewal Reminders
A well-organized renewal plan is crucial to maintaining client relationships and ensuring no project slips through the cracks.
Image Source: Level Green Landscaping
Automated renewal reminders can be set up to alert your team 30, 60, or 90 days before a maintenance contract expires.
These reminders:
- Give You Time to Prepare: Ensure you have ample opportunity to review the client’s needs and offer any necessary updates or changes.
- Foster Client Relationships: Use the time leading up to the renewal to engage with your clients, address any concerns, and keep the connection strong. You can even send them a link to book a meeting on your calendar.
- Prevent Surprises: By staying on top of renewals, you avoid last-minute rushes and ensure a smooth continuation of services.
Streamline for Success
In the landscaping business, the transition from sales to service can make or break your customer experience and internal efficiency.
Optimizing this handoff is essential to keep things running smoothly and ensure both your team and your clients are satisfied.
Image Source: KD Landscape
At Landscape LeadershipⓇ, we understand the critical role technology and process improvements play in this transition. We’ve guided many clients through this journey and could be a good fit for your business as well.
If you like regular insights like these, subscribe to our blog. We'll send you new articles right to your inbox. If you're ready to streamline and automate your landscaping sales process, feel free to request a consultation.
