“If you don’t focus on your strengths and test your ideas before diving in, you’re not building a business—you’re just spinning your wheels.” — Steve Walley

In this episode of the Grow Landscapers 10 Minute Business Tip Series, host Nick Ruddle welcomes back Steve Walley, a familiar face from the first series and a key figure at London Stone. Steve brings his wealth of experience to the table, sharing practical, no-nonsense tips to help landscape business owners sharpen their focus, boost efficiency, and grow smarter.

Key Takeaways:

1. Play to Your Strengths:

  - Resist the temptation to chase every new idea—stick to what you’re best at to avoid diluting your business.

  - Steve shares how straying into commercial paving and interior tiles cost time and money before refocusing on London Stone’s core strengths.

  - Focus on being exceptional in one area rather than average across many.

2. Daily Accountability:

  - Set clear daily goals for yourself and your team to stay on track and avoid reactive firefighting.

  - Steve introduces the “stand-up” meeting—a quick daily check-in to review yesterday’s progress and plan today’s priorities.

  - This simple habit keeps everyone aligned, accountable, and free to work without constant oversight.

3. Test Before You Invest:

  - Before committing time and money to a new venture, test the market demand first.

  - Steve recounts advising a friend to gauge interest in tailored gym meal plans via Instagram, saving six months and significant costs when the idea flopped.

  - Start small, prove the concept, and scale only when you’ve confirmed the demand.

4. Attracting Talent to Landscaping:

  - Encourage hands-on skills in kids early on—Steve credits his dad’s garden projects for sparking his interest in physical work.

  - Highlight the industry’s creativity and “cool factor,” from stunning gardens to rock-star status at events like Chelsea.

  - As AI takes over desk jobs, trades like landscaping will rise in value and appeal.

5. Lifelong Learning:

  - Stay inquisitive—every person you meet knows something you don’t, so listen closely.

  - Leverage free resources like YouTube, TikTok, and podcasts to keep your skills sharp.

  - Steve’s tip: truly hear what people say instead of waiting for your turn to speak.

Resources Mentioned:

- London Stone: londonstone.co.uk

- Steve’s TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@stevelondonstone

Connect with Steve Walley:

- Website: londonstone.co.uk

Final Thoughts:

Nick and Steve urge landscapers to hone their focus, test ideas smartly, and embrace daily habits that drive success. Whether it’s sticking to your strengths or inspiring the next generation, these actionable tips can transform your business—and your life. Start today, keep it simple, and watch the results pile up.

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