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Reflecting on Landscape Ontario’s Peer-to-Peer Leadership Summit

Recently, I had the privilege of participating in Landscape Ontario’s peer-to-peer leadership summit. Our guest speaker, Jon S. Rennie, didn’t just deliver a lecture; he took us on a journey through his leadership career. But this event was more than a speaking engagement—it was a dynamic exchange. Industry peers converged to discuss challenges, celebrate victories, and navigate the intricate paths of leadership.

As Jon shared his experiences, heads nodded in agreement. The struggles—the late nights, the uphill battles—they resonated. And when fellow landscapers chimed in, the room buzzed with collective wisdom. We dissected leadership moments, shared strategies, and emerged with fresh insights.

Here are my quick hits on peer groups/industry events

1. Shared Wisdom: Peer groups/events bring together industry leaders, speakers, and fellow landscapers. Their collective wisdom is a goldmine. From navigating market trends to tackling operational challenges, these insights are priceless.
2. Collaboration Over Competition: In peer groups, competition takes a back seat. Instead, collaboration thrives. You’ll find yourself brainstorming with competitors, sharing best practices, and collectively raising the industry’s bar.
3. Inspiration and Accountability: When you’re part of a peer group, inspiration flows freely. Industry leaders share success stories, innovative strategies, and fresh perspectives. Plus, the accountability factor keeps you on track—no slacking off!

In the landscaping industry, connections matter. Networking isn’t just about exchanging business cards; it’s about forging meaningful relationships that propel your business and career forward.

Greg Cranford

Please enjoy this weeks guest contributor Joe Salemi, CAE Executive Director of Landscape Ontario Horticultural Trades Association !

Leverage Your Landscape Trades Association To Stay Connected

I’ve been connected to the landscape trades for a little over 20 years now and have learned much about what draws so many to this industry. Most of which is the incredible passion and commitment to producing brilliant outdoor living spaces. I have also observed something in the landscape trades that is pretty rare - the willingness to share and support peers in the business even if they’re competitors.?

An often overlooked facilitator of this is your provincial or state landscape trades association. I may be slightly biased because I got my start in the landscape trades through the association world and saw first hand how the landscape trades associations connected businesses by creating a community that brings great people together to work toward something together, leaving competition and ego at the door.

Through my time at the Landscape Ontario Horticultural Trades Association, I have seen first hand how creating a community can build success for landscape businesses over and over again. I have put a list together of all the great things that we do to help landscape companies in Ontario.?

1. Networking Opportunities

• Landscape trade associations organize events, conferences, and workshops where you can connect with your peers. These gatherings offer a chance to meet potential clients, suppliers, and collaborators - all with the intention of making everyone better.
• These networking opportunities allow you to share experiences, learn from others, and stay updated on industry news and trends.

2. Advocacy and Representation

• Landscape trade associations advocate for your interests with all levels of government.
• They work to shape policies, regulations, and legislation that affect you directly.
• By being part of a landscape trade association, you contribute to a collective voice that can directly influence positive change.

3. Access to Resources

• Landscape trade associations provide access to valuable resources such as research reports, market data, and best practices.
• Members can tap into educational materials, webinars, and training programs to enhance their skills and knowledge.

4. Professional Development

• Many landscape trade associations offer certification programs, continuing education opportunities, and pathways for professional development for the people on your teams.
• These credentials enhance your company's credibility and demonstrate expertise.
• Your people?can attend workshops, seminars, and conferences to stay informed about the latest techniques and technologies.

5. Industry Recognition

• Membership in a landscape trade association signals professionalism and commitment to quality. Your clients and partners often prefer working with companies that are part of a recognized association.
• Being associated with a reputable organization adds credibility to your company's brand.

6. Discounts and Cost Savings

• Landscape trade associations negotiate discounts on equipment, products, services, and insurance on your behalf using the collective buying power of the industry.
• By leveraging these benefits, you can reduce operational costs and improve your bottom line.

7. Collaboration and Partnerships

• Landscape trade associations foster collaboration among members.?
• You can find potential collaborators for joint projects or partnerships. You never know how a relationship you make at a networking event can come through as a partner later.
• Joint ventures and strategic alliances can lead to new business opportunities.

8. Stay Informed

• Landscape trade associations keep you informed about industry news, market trends, and technological advancements.
• Regular newsletters, publications, and online forums provide valuable insights.

9. Community Involvement

• Being part of a landscape trade association allows you to give back to the community.
• Landscape trade associations often organize charitable events, environmental initiatives, and community service projects.
• Community involvement enhances your company's reputation and fosters goodwill.

10. Business Exposure

• Landscape trade associations promote their members through directories, websites, and social media platforms.
• Increased visibility can attract potential clients and boost a company's profile.

There are landscape trades associations in every province and state across North America.

Seriously consider investing in membership with your provincial or state landscape trade association. The benefits extend beyond financial gains and contribute to the overall growth and success of the industry.?

If you haven’t considered joining one, this is my personal invitation to you. Reach out to me and I’ll connect you to the association in your state to get you started.

Joe Salemi, CAE

Executive Director

Landscape Ontario Horticultural Trades Association

mowr notes

We’re always looking for fresh perspectives and insights from our community, and we’d love to hear from you!

If you’re interested in contributing to our future newsletters, please don’t hesitate to direct message Greg Cranford .

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