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The Landscaper’s Guide to Modern Sales and Marketing Newsletter
NOVEMBER 2024
I recently did something many might consider too risky — I took a month off work. Now, before you think it was all spontaneous, let me share that it was a carefully orchestrated absence fueled by meticulous planning and unshakeable trust in my incredible Rambler team. My journey started with a simple yet powerful step: spending two days in front of the camera. I wanted to ensure my team knew exactly what I do, how I do it, and everything in between. From deep dives into client strategies to a detailed 50-minute explanation of our marketing plan, I laid out everything the team could need in my absence. Adopting a milestone-based sales process also proved invaluable, especially when I took a vacation. This approach breaks down the sales cycle into distinct stages, each assigned to different team members. The clarity and organization of this system mean that when someone like myself is away, others can effortlessly step in. This seamless transition is supported by detailed training resources such as videos, checklists, and hands-on sessions, which we conducted before I left. This structured process ensured our sales momentum continued without fault and even thrived in my absence. And thrive they did! Not only did the office keep humming, but my team also clinched four new sales. Even more impressively, my executive assistant, who swears she “doesn’t do sales,” stepped up and sealed a deal for a major public speaking event. It turns out that with the right preparation, anyone on your team can unveil hidden talents. What was I doing while all this was happening? I was in the wilderness, elk hunting with my sons under the spectacular September harvest full moon, living a dream only possible because I had a self-sufficient team back home. That moonlit night reminded me why I had worked Build a Resilient Sales Team That Can Thrive in Your Absence Vacation-Proof Your Sales
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Gone Huntin’ ... Is he ever coming back?
tirelessly to build a dependable team. I’m incredibly grateful for all my Ramblers who stepped up so I could experience this trip with my two sons, calling for elk under a full moon. They were capable of taking control and were more than happy to give me the opportunity. This isn’t just about having time off; it’s about knowing your business can handle life’s unpredictable waves — be it a family need, a health issue, or a call of the wild. In the early years of Ramblin Jackson, I rarely took a single day off, let alone a consecutive four weeks. But that grind laid a foundation for the freedom I now enjoy. So, here’s my call to action for you: Think about what systems you need to take that step back. Can your business run without you for a month, a week, or even a day? Start small if you must. Document processes, empower your team with training, and gradually build the trust that allows you to step away without fear. Imagine what you could do with that freedom. Maybe it’s reconnecting with your family, pursuing a passion, or just catching your breath. Whatever it is, start laying the groundwork now. Your future self — and your business — will thank you for it. To all aspiring to run a business and live fully, the time to start is now. Let’s ensure our businesses are not just surviving without us but robust enough to grow and flourish.
JACK JOSTES, CEO RAMBLIN JACKSON
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New Edition, New Marketing Insights WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THE NEW ‘THE TREE OF GOOD FORTUNE’
With November marking National Novel Writing Month, it feels like the perfect time to give you a sneak peek into a recent venture: A brand-new edition of “The Tree of Good Fortune,” set to launch in winter 2025. This updated version will be a lifeline for landscape business owners navigating today’s uncharted marketing landscape. In this upcoming book, I explore why a multitouch, multimedia marketing strategy is so critical, especially during quieter seasons like fall and winter. The book is packed with actionable advice on using various channels — phone, email, print, and direct mail — to keep conversations going and strengthen customer relationships. But it’s more than just marketing tips. Given how much has changed post-COVID-19 and with new tech like AI shaking up the scene, this book updates you on the latest and From Social Media to Online Banking SECURE YOUR LEGACY WITH A DIGITAL ESTATE PLAN In today’s digital age, we spend much of our lives online. Our digital footprint covers everything, from online banking and bill payments to social media interactions and photo sharing. But what happens to these digital assets after you pass away? This is where a digital estate plan becomes crucial. Your digital legacy includes all the interactions and content you’ve created online. This might encompass your social media profiles, email accounts, online conversations, photos, and even your blog. Managing these digital assets is essential not only for practical and financial reasons but also for emotional ones. Your emails, documents, and social media posts constitute an incredible legacy of content that might be meaningful for your loved ones.
greatest ways to stay ahead of the curve. It’s the essential guide for any business owner looking to lead the pack in their industry. In crafting the latest edition of “The Tree of Good Fortune,” I’ve prioritized getting to the heart of what really troubles business owners. From hitting the trade show circuit to engaging directly with clients, I’ve gained firsthand insights into their toughest obstacles. This hands-on approach ensures every chapter of my book addresses real-world issues, offering practical and transformative solutions for business owners navigating the competitive terrain. Why is this book a must-read? The world of digital marketing never stands still, and staying updated is key to surviving and thriving. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting your feet wet, this book is designed to give you the tools and insights
you need to tackle modern marketing challenges head-on.
I’d love for you to follow along on Instagram and LinkedIn, @JackJostes, where I’ll share more about the writing process and what you can expect from the book. “The Tree of Good Fortune” is guaranteed to be a road map to mastering marketing today, packed with insights as practical as they are transformative. So, get ready to turn pages and turn up your marketing game. This new edition is coming soon, and it’s set to be a game-changer. usernames, passwords, and any other relevant information. 2. Determine where you’d like them to go. Specify what should happen to each of your digital assets. For example, you may want your social media profiles memorialized or deleted and your photos shared with family members. 3. Select a digital executor. Choose a trusted person to manage your digital assets according to your wishes. This person could be the same as your estate executor or someone more tech-savvy.
What are digital assets? Digital assets cover a wide range of online accounts and information, such as:
• • • • • • • • • •
Email accounts
Social media profiles Online banking accounts
Subscription-based services E-commerce accounts (e.g., Etsy, Amazon, eBay) Cloud-stored photos and files
Cellphone apps
Online dating or gaming accounts
4. Secure and legalize your digital
Online accounts for utilities
estate plan. Ensure your plan is legally binding and stored securely. Your digital executor should know where to find this plan when needed. Planning your digital legacy is an important step in today’s connected world. When you take the time to create a digital estate plan, you can provide peace of mind for yourself and your loved ones, ensuring your online presence is handled with care and respect after you’re gone.
Loyalty program benefits (e.g., frequent flyer miles) Any other personal data stored on your computer, cellphone, or tablet
•
Create a digital estate plan. Follow these essential steps to ensure your digital assets are properly managed and distributed. 1. Identify your digital assets. List all your online accounts and digital assets. This inventory should include
2 • (303) 544-2125
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UPCOMING EVENTS 2024 NALP Elevate Expo Nov. 3–6 • Charlotte, NC Stop by booth #1111 to say howdy! How to Leverage AI to Build SOPs in Your Landscape Business TODAY Nov. 14, 12:30 p.m. CT Virtual Webinar TNLA Hort Forum Jan. 5–8, 2025 • Grapevine, TX Hosted by the Texas Nursery & Landscape Association Green & Growin’ Jan. 13–17, 2025 • Greensboro, TX Stop by booth #1530 to say howdy!
TAKE A BREAK
APPLE BASKETBALL BLACK FRIDAY FIREPLACE
GRATITUDE LEAVES NAP PARADE
PIE STUFFING TURKEY VETERAN
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uck on a Rainy Day
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1 Keep Business Booming, Even When the Boss Is Away 2 A Sneak Peek at the New Edition of ‘The Tree of Good Fortune’ 2 What Happens to Your Digital Assets After You’re Gone? 3 Upcoming Events 4 Turn Political Debates Into Constructive Conversations INSIDE PO Box 1429 • Lyons, CO 80540 (303) 544-2125 • ramblinjackson.com
KEEPING IT CIVIL HOW TO GRACEFULLY HANDLE POLITICAL DISCUSSIONS
As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s time to navigate the tricky political conversations that often pop up, whether you’re catching up with family or mingling at business events. Believe it or not, my wife and I have never voted for the same candidate. But we’ve found a way to have meaningful discussions about our differences. I’ve learned that sometimes, it’s more about listening and understanding where someone else is coming from rather than trying to reach an agreement. This approach doesn’t just help at home; it’s also kept my friendships rich and my professional relationships strong despite differing views. It’s about giving space to those differing opinions and finding common ground where we can. A key factor in keeping the peace is knowing when to speak up versus when to sit back. For example, during the height of the pandemic, there was a moment when I had to step in after a debate about who could attend a family event based on health policies. It was a tough conversation but necessary to address the core of
our family’s relationship dynamics. It showed me the importance of knowing when to voice your opinions.
In more casual settings, like networking events, I’ve found it helpful to avoid politics with questions like, “You might be right,” or comments such as, “Thanks for sharing that.” This way, I can keep the conversation open and respectful without revealing my stance. So, whether you’re at a family dinner or a professional gathering, remember these moments are about connection, not conflict. Sometimes, asking, “Would it be okay if we didn’t talk about this right now?” is enough to steer the conversation back to safer waters and keep the atmosphere light and enjoyable. Navigating political conversations with grace isn’t just about keeping the peace — it’s about respecting each other’s views and remembering we’re all more than just our political opinions. This perspective has brought me a lot of peace, and I hope it can do the same for you.
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