Awards Season is Here

It’s awards season! Time to get those jobs picked out and spruced up, ready for judging.

I look forward to this time of year. It forces me to evaluate my own work. To take stock in what I have been working on for the last year or so. Have I truly been doing a good job? Is my work going to be competitive against other companies? Entering the awards competition will tell.

When looking for what jobs to enter, I look for projects that will be competitive and good enough to win. I consider the design, quality of the build, the lighting, and plant selection. Our effort from the very beginning of the project should shine through. Over the years I have learned that if you truly want to win, it starts at the beginning of the project, not the end.

I’ve also learned that it is a team effort. Your crews have a huge impact on the quality of your installs. It is critical that they are invested in doing a good job. All aspects of the installation matter… from placement of the drains and correct grading, to installing the valves straight and even, to ensuring sprinkler heads are installed correctly, that lights are pointing at their intended target, that plants are turned and spaced appropriately, and trees staked correctly. These details are what will set you apart.

If you are fortunate enough to win an award, then you and your team have done a great job. Celebrate the win by having a company meeting or party and congratulate the whole team. Post the award where everyone in the company can see it; it is a constant reminder of what they are capable of. Use it in your advertising and on your website. Let everyone know that you are an award-winning company.

Judging for this year’s awards competition is scheduled for June 27-29, 2024. Entry forms will be available soon. The Beautification Awards gala is set for September 28 at the Villa in Orange.

~Sincerely, Dave, 2024 CLCA OC Chapter President