If I could give one piece of advice to my younger self when I was first starting out as an arborist, it would be this: don't underestimate the value of building trust through exceptional communication and customer service. Early in my career, I focused heavily on technical skills, learning how to safely prune and remove trees, understanding tree biology, and sharpening my ability to diagnose tree health issues. While those skills are absolutely essential, I quickly learned that the success of my business hinged just as much on how I communicated with my customers. One example that stands out is a project I took on for a homeowner who was unsure whether to remove a large oak tree in their backyard. Instead of jumping straight into the job, I took the time to thoroughly explain the tree's health, the risks involved with keeping it, and what could be done to preserve it if that was their preference. That level of care and transparency not only earned me their trust but also led to several referrals over the years from their family and friends. It was a moment that taught me that people don't just want a service, they want someone they can trust to guide them in making the right decisions for their property. This mindset has shaped the way I approach every job to this day. My qualifications, like being a TRAQ certified arborist and having over 20 years of hands on experience, allow me to provide informed recommendations, but what really sets my business apart is the time I take to listen and educate my clients. People want to feel heard and understood, especially when it comes to something as personal as their trees, which often have sentimental value or play a key role in their landscape. By focusing on this balance between expertise and empathy, I've been able to grow Ponce Tree Services into a trusted name in the DFW area. My advice to anyone starting out is to remember that technical skill will get your foot in the door, but genuine care for your customers is what keeps the door open and leads to long-term success.
One piece of advice I would give myself when I was first starting out as an arborist is that as tree care professionals, we must remain teachable and humble. It is important to remember that we will never have all the answers. But it is also important that we share our experiences, even if they may have not gone as planned. Plan the work, then work the plan. If the doesn't work, do it again. We are tradespeople in a very dynamic field. Situational awareness is key to keeping yourself and your crew safe. At the end of day we must not forget who we are working to support and or influence.