How Technology is Reshaping Client Relationships: A Guide for Account Managers

In today’s competitive landscaping industry, account managers play a crucial role in maintaining client relationships and ensuring seamless project execution. However, as client expectations rise, so does the need for efficient, tech-driven solutions to enhance communication, streamline workflows, and personalize service.

From VR-powered consultations to AI-driven chatbots, technology is transforming how landscaping businesses engage with clients. For account managers, adopting these innovations isn’t just a luxury—it’s essential for providing top-tier service and building lasting customer relationships.

1. Virtual Reality (VR) & Augmented Reality (AR) for Client Consultations

A major challenge in landscaping is helping clients visualize projects before installation. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) tools solve this problem by providing interactive 3D previews of proposed designs. Platforms like VizTerra and PRO Landscape allow account managers to present immersive models, enabling clients to make informed decisions before work begins.

Why It Matters for Account Managers:

• Increases client confidence by offering a clear visual representation of designs.
• Reduces miscommunication and last-minute changes, saving time and costs.
• Enhances sales presentations, making it easier to close deals.

2. Online Client Portals for Real-Time Communication

Customers expect instant access to project updates, invoices, and communication. Online client portals, integrated into platforms like Aspire and ServiceTitan, provide a centralized hub for clients to track project progress, submit requests, and receive updates without multiple back-and-forth emails.

Why It Matters for Account Managers:

• Increases transparency and trust with clients.
• Reduces time spent on administrative tasks by automating updates.
• Ensures faster response times, leading to higher customer satisfaction.

3. AI Chatbots & Automated Customer Support

AI-powered chatbots are changing the way businesses handle customer inquiries. Tools like HubSpot and Drift provide automated responses to common questions, schedule appointments, and offer 24/7 support—all without human intervention.

Why It Matters for Account Managers:

• Frees up more time for account managers to focus on high-value clients.
• Ensures clients receive immediate answers, improving their experience.
• Reduces missed opportunities by capturing leads even outside business hours.

4. Digital Marketing & Social Media Engagement

Modern account managers don’t just maintain relationships—they proactively nurture them through digital marketing and social media. AI-driven marketing tools analyze client interactions, helping landscapers create targeted campaigns based on past preferences and engagement.

Why It Matters for Account Managers:

• Helps identify upsell and cross-sell opportunities with existing clients.
• Strengthens brand loyalty by engaging customers with relevant content.
• Provides real-time insights into customer sentiment and feedback.

5. CRM & Data Analytics for Personalized Client Service

A robust Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system, like Jobber or LMN, allows account managers to track client history, automate follow-ups, and analyze customer preferences. Predictive analytics further enhances this by helping account managers anticipate seasonal needs and service requests before clients even ask.

Why It Matters for Account Managers:

• Enables personalized service recommendations, increasing customer loyalty.
• Improves client retention by tracking renewal opportunities.
• Enhances data-driven decision-making, leading to better long-term strategies.

6. Recording and Transcription Apps for Better Client Follow-Ups

Effective communication is key to strong client relationships, and account managers are increasingly using AI-powered transcription tools like Fireflies and Otter to streamline follow-ups. These apps record and summarize meetings, generate action items, and automatically send key takeaways to clients, ensuring nothing gets lost in translation.

Why It Matters for Account Managers:

• Reduces manual note-taking, allowing for more engaged client interactions.
• Ensures accurate communication with clients by providing documented summaries.
• Saves time by automating follow-ups and task assignments, improving efficiency.

Conclusion

Technology is reshaping the role of account managers in the landscaping industry. By embracing VR consultations, AI-driven automation, digital marketing, and data analytics, landscaping businesses can provide higher-quality, more personalized services that foster long-term client relationships.

For companies looking to stay ahead in 2025, investing in tech-driven account management isn’t just an option—it’s the key to sustainable growth and client satisfaction.

W360 Tech Corner features Willard Moore, Wilson360 CTO, breaking down the latest trends and innovations transforming businesses—from AI to performance tools—keeping you ahead of the curve. Connect with Willard at Willard@Wilson-360.com.