Next month, green industry professionals will gather in Denver for ProGreen EXPO. In addition to sessions focused on certifications and technical skills, landscape company owners and managers have a variety of classes that discuss the business of running a business.

“We realize that while our attendees value ProGreen for earning CEUs for their certifications, seeing the latest in equipment and technology in the EXPO, and networking with peers, company owners who attend also want education that is not specific to the green industry,” says Melissa Emdin, programs & education director with ALCC. Emdin works with other partner organizations to identify and schedule ProGreen presenters.

“Owners and managers want to learn how to run their business more effectively and develop a positive company culture. That’s true not just for landscape companies but for most employers. Of course, we try to find experts with some knowledge of the green industry so that they can address the unique challenges professionals may face.”

Three recommended business sessions include:

David Fellman will present Rules of Engagement: A Guide To Better Communication – And Better Relationships! – With Everyone Who Is Important to Your Business on Wednesday, February 5. He’ll address how cultivating meaningful relationships with your employees, your customers, and your vendors is key to business success.

Business owners who are looking to promote their company and help the public better understand what sets them apart from the rest will benefit from Green Industry Best Practices for Working with the Media, hosted by Chuck Montera and Bryn Phinney of Sigler Communications. They’ll discuss how to earn media coverage and what to do once you’ve gained media attention.

Even professionals who don’t plan to retire soon can benefit from Succession Planning for You and your Business. Preparing your company for your exit can take several years; it’s never too early to improve your business practices and get ready for the next generation to take over. Michael Watkins, CEO of Scaling to Exit, will discuss the strategies he has identified to help small- to mid-sized businesses prepare for a future sale.

See the full schedule of ProGreen sessions at /www.progreenexpo.com/Schedule/2020-Education-Schedule.

Read more in this issue of Colorado Green NOW:
Looking for talent? Ask what they want.
Proposal to shield off-duty cannabis use in Colorado
ProGreen addresses the business of the green industry
New W-4 form for 2020