Industry Insights

Last week, I travelled to Kansas City to represent Compass as a sponsor at Jeffrey Scott’s Summer Growth Summit.

The landscape professionals I had the pleasure of meeting there are not just running landscaping businesses; they are shaping communities, nurturing people, and leaving a lasting impact on the world. I returned home feeling recharged and inspired by the experience.

1. Reframing the Purpose of Business

What if we measured wealth not by how much money we make but by how many people we bless? This question sparked by Larry Ryan (from Ryan Lawn & Tree) encapsulates the summit's essence. The purpose of business isn't to generate profit but to love and serve people. This mindset shifts the focus from accumulation to contribution — from self-interest to selflessness. It's a powerful reminder that our businesses can and should be forces for positive change. While profits are crucial for any enterprise to thrive, they are not the purpose.

2. Rethinking Profit

In the context of this reframed purpose of business, profit takes on a new role. Profit is no longer the goal; it’s a tool to amplify our ability to bless others. The idea that profit is a means to grow and serve more people resonated deeply with me. It challenges us to look beyond the numbers and see profit as an enabler of impact. This perspective encourages us to understand the needs of our clients, teams and communities and then find creative ways to meet those needs. It's about creating value for others and inspiring others to do the same. This approach generates a ripple effect where the success of our business fuels positive change far beyond our immediate reach.

3. Invest in People

One of the most impactful discussions at the summit centred around the importance of investing in people. Larry Ryan, Shawn Scheffler, and the Ryan Lawn & Tree team shared their experiences, emphasizing that the true value of a business lies in its people. By investing in our teams — through training, support, and genuine care — we create a culture of loyalty, innovation, and excellence. This investment isn't just about developing skills; it's about nurturing relationships and building a community within our companies. It's about recognizing that our people are to be served even as we ask them to serve others. This is the path to meaningful and purposeful growth.

4. Embrace Authenticity

Being emotionally open and vulnerable with your team and clients builds trust and fosters deeper connections. When we strip away the facades and lead honestly, we create an environment where people feel safe expressing themselves, taking risks, and innovating. Authenticity isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a cornerstone of effective leadership and meaningful business. It's about being true to your values and ensuring that your actions align with your words. Authenticity is a beacon of integrity in a world that often rewards superficiality.

5. Everyone Is Part of Your Brand and Marketing Team

Finally, one of the most practical takeaways from the summit is the understanding that everyone in your company is part of your brand and marketing team. Every interaction your employees have — with clients, vendors, or even each other— reflects your brand. This idea underscores the importance of instilling a sense of ownership and pride in your team. When your employees believe in your mission and values, they naturally become ambassadors for your brand. This organic advocacy is far more powerful than any marketing campaign because it’s rooted in genuine belief and shared purpose.

Jeffrey Scott’s Summer Growth Summit reminded me of the impact we can have when we align our businesses with a higher purpose. Business is not about making money; it’s about making a difference. By reframing our purpose, rethinking profit, investing in people, embracing authenticity, and recognizing every team member's role in our brand, we can create businesses that bless those around us.

Ultimately, the true measure of our success will be the lives we touch, the communities we uplift, and the world we leave better than we found it.