How to Build a Reputation in Business
From Lawn Mowing to Luxury Design: Lessons from Steve Griggs on Leadership and Execution
Words by
Carl J. Cox
Success often begins in small ways. For Steve Griggs, it started with mowing lawns as a teenager. Over the next several decades, he built Steve Griggs Design into one of New York City’s premier luxury landscape design-build firms. Today his company transforms ordinary outdoor spaces into extraordinary environments. But the path to building a successful business was not easy. In this episode of the Measure Success Podcast, hosted by Carl J. Cox, CEO of 40 Strategy and 40 Accounting, Steve shares lessons about leadership, execution, and entrepreneurship.
Starting Small
Many successful businesses begin with simple ideas.
For Steve, landscaping started as a way to earn money while young.
What began as mowing lawns eventually turned into a career focused on landscape design and construction.
He later pursued advanced education in landscape design and horticulture.
Over time, his work gained recognition and appeared in numerous publications.
But the foundation of his business remained the same.
Deliver exceptional work.
Solving Problems Others Could Not
One story Steve shared during the podcast captures the heart of his work.
A homeowner wanted a pool built on top of a mountain.
Three other companies said the project could not be done.
Steve accepted the challenge.
His team completed the project on time and on budget.
The homeowner had never learned to swim.
By the end of the summer, he was swimming across the pool.
His wife told Steve it was the best $450,000 they had ever spent.
For Steve, that moment defined success.
Managing High Expectations
Working in New York City means dealing with demanding clients.
Many of Steve’s customers are successful professionals who expect high standards.
The key to managing those expectations is honesty.
Steve explained that successful clients recognize when someone is being truthful.
Instead of trying to please everyone, he tells clients when an idea will not work.
This approach builds trust.
People respect professionals who speak honestly.
Respect on the Job Site
Construction projects depend on teamwork.
Steve believes respect is essential when managing crews.
He often visits job sites and works alongside his team.
This shows employees that he understands their work.
Simple gestures can also make a difference.
Sometimes bringing coffee and donuts to the job site builds stronger relationships than long meetings.
Respect and consistency create loyalty.
The Power of Focus
Another lesson Steve learned came through experience.
Trying to manage too many projects at once leads to mistakes.
Instead, he focuses teams on one job at a time.
This approach improves quality, reduces stress, and increases efficiency.
When people concentrate on one task, they complete it faster and with fewer errors.
Focus leads to better execution.
Learning Through Experience
Like many entrepreneurs, Steve learned some lessons the hard way.
Early in his career he lost money on projects.
These experiences taught him how to manage teams, schedules, and expectations.
Education matters.
But real learning happens through experience.
Every challenge creates an opportunity to improve.
Personal Branding Matters
Steve also discussed the importance of building a personal brand.
He wrote a coffee-table book called Straight Dirt, which showcases projects and stories from his career.
The book serves as a powerful business tool.
When clients compare contractors, credibility matters.
Publishing a book establishes authority.
Today Steve also shares his work through social media and interviews.
Visibility builds trust and attracts new opportunities.
The Importance of Family
While Steve takes pride in his business success, he measures personal success differently.
For him, success means being present for family.
He made a commitment to attend his children’s sports events and activities whenever possible.
Entrepreneurs often become consumed by work.
But time with family creates lasting memories.
Balance matters.
Adapting to Technology
Technology is changing every industry.
Steve has begun exploring tools like AI and digital design software.
While these tools can help create visuals and improve planning, they cannot replace craftsmanship.
Landscape construction remains an art.
Design ideas are valuable.
But execution brings those ideas to life.
Key Lessons from the Episode
Several important lessons emerge from Steve’s experience:
Focus on execution, not just ideas
Build trust through honesty
Respect your team and show appreciation
Concentrate on one project at a time
Invest time in family and relationships
Continue learning and adapting
These principles apply across industries.
Whether you run a construction company, consulting firm, or technology business, the fundamentals remain the same.
Final Thoughts
Steve Griggs built a successful business through persistence, craftsmanship, and leadership.
His journey shows that success does not happen overnight.
It comes through consistent effort and strong values.
Entrepreneurs who focus on execution, respect their teams, and deliver exceptional results will continue to grow.
And as Steve reminds us, success also means being present for the people who matter most.
