As we all know, finding and keeping talented professionals and hard workers is one of the greatest challenges our industry faces. And next month in Denver, we’ll be tackling this issue from every angle and touching on it in every session at GROW! 2019, from locating and attracting good candidates, to building the kind of company and culture where people want to work and see a real future at. Because having a strong team in place is the foundation to the success of our companies—we literally can’t grow without them.

What’s more, we can’t grow without hiring and nurturing young people, and without being open to their ideas and insights. I was reminded of this again this week when I headed out to Brigham Young University in Salt Lake City to spend some time sharing what I know about our industry with the students in their top-notch horticulture program. As much as I hope I helped them, they helped me to see the challenges we’re facing at Grunder Landscaping in new ways:

Spend some time this week talking and really listening to the young people on your team. You might be surprised by all the great ideas you get in return.

Have a great week!

P.S. Spots are filling up quickly for both our GROW! 2019 Annual Conference and the hotel, with many companies bringing large teams. Don’t delay—sign up soon. Companies with three or more attendees receive 15% off; e-mail lindsey@growgroupinc.com for details.