Accounting and Bookkeeping Articles

6 Ways to Update Your Website and Gain Appeal

A website can be a valuable promotional tool, enabling you to broadcast information about your business even when your office is closed.  These days, with technology advancing at breakneck speeds, it’s important that your professional website be competitive and drive more prospective clients your way.  But how do you do that?  Here are six easy guidelines to improve your website so that it generates more return visits and, consequently, prospective clients.

1. Watch the numbers

There are many companies willing to provide you with traffic reports that let you know how many visitors you have and which pages they visited.  In this, your visitors will let you know which areas of your website are most appealing and should be accentuated in order to capitalize on user interest.

2. Make key information easily accessible

While most visitors will probably land on your website because you gave them your URL or they performed an internet search on local accountants and/or bookkeepers, there will be some who will immediately want to know who you are and what you do.  This information should be easy to access from your homepage.  Also be sure to include easy-to-find contact information.  Your website’s ultimate objective is to enable people to retain your services.  They can’t do that unless they know who you are and how to contact you.

3. Turn your site into a magnet

The most important thing about your website is that it attracts returning visitors.  And visitors will continually return if they find valuable content on your website.  If you provide bookkeeping tips for the small business owner, you’ll find they use your site as a reference and perhaps even bookmark it.  And when they need accounting help, who do you think they’ll go to?  You, of course!

Promotional offers also generate return visitors.  By offering a web promotion, you give them reason to bookmark your site and return when they’re ready to enlist your help.

4. Simplify the design

How do you respond to Power Point Presentations with neon text, flashing graphics, and nifty rollover effects?  It may be hypnotic at first, but can quickly become distracting.  While you want your site to be visually appealing, you need to remember that your content is on display, not the clever programming.  When in doubt, simplify the design, focusing on the professional image you want to project.

5. Standardize all the screens

Related to simplifying the design of your website, ensure that all your screens are standardized with a singular navigation system and a means of returning to your homepage with one simple click.

6. Use testimonials

Let your satisfied customers do some marketing for you.  Testimonials go a long way in creating a lasting impression on prospective clients.  They are memorable, versatile, reusable, and give you a competitive edge, not to mention that they build your credibility as an accountant.  Every time a client compliments you on your services request a testimonial that you can add to your website and other promotional materials.  These would work great on a screen that focuses on the true value of your service offerings.

Universal Accounting Center Can Help You Create a Custom Website for Your Practice

Imagine how difficult it would be to create your own website that can accomplish all the suggestions noted above.  Now imagine that UAC can manage that process for you, enabling you to create a strong web presence without expending much energy.  Universal Accounting Center (UAC) offers you Accountweb, a website development tool, available exclusively for financial professionals.  Within a number of business days you can create a personalized website for your practice.

To see a sample of a website developed from the Universal Accountweb platform, go to www.universalaccountingservices.com.

Whether you run a full-time practice or perform bookkeeping services on the side, you need a website that tells potential clients about your business even when you are unable to.  If you haven’t yet developed a website for your business, or if your current site is in need of reform, today is the day!  Order your subscription now-your website will be up and running by the following business week.  And if you are a Universal Accounting student you will receive a free six-month trial!

10 Steps in Getting What You Want

In business you don’t get what you deserve, you get what you negotiate. - Chester L. Karras

You must be fully prepared to lose a great deal in order to make a great deal. - Anonymous

My father said: ‘You must never try to make all the money that’s in a deal.  Let the other fellow make some money too, because if you have a reputation for always making all the money, you won’t have many deals. - J. Paul Getty

All business owners must be prepared to negotiate at some time in their careers.  In fact, successful professionals must negotiate quite often in order to increase their profitability.  To help you master the art of negotiation, we’ve designed this two-part series that will share 10 steps in getting what you want.  Last week, we presented the following five steps:

1.    Prepare

2.    Time

3.    Strategize

4.    Listen

5.    Leverage

This week we’ll cover the last five:

6. Offer

It’s important that both parties find the offer to be clear and specific.  Michael Sanibel, in his article on Entrepreneur.com, explains, “The basis of the bargain should include: offer prices (in proper denomination), statement of work (scope), identification and quantities of goods or services, delivery schedule, performance incentives (if any), express warranties (if any), terms and conditions, and any documents incorporated by reference.”  Once both parties clearly understand and agree to this offer, which should be put in writing, you can move forward.

7. Anticipate

Experienced negotiators realize that the first offer is a reference point and is rarely accepted.  You should anticipate compromise, for that is a key element in negotiation.  In your research, you should have come to understand and appreciate what the other party wants and needs in order for this deal to be acceptable.  In that, be prepared to revise the original offer until it appeals to both parties.

8. Aim

That being said, it’s important to aim high.  Sanibel suggests you shoot for a win-win solution, where both parties are satisfied.  The Sloan Brothers and Daniel Kehrer, in their articled entitled “Ten Techniques for Better Negotiation,” explain, “Another tenet of negotiating is ‘go high, or go home.’  …As long as you can argue convincingly, don’t be afraid to aim high.  But no ultimatums, please.  Take-it-or-leave-it offers are usually out of place.”

9. Hold Firm

Most people know that when buying a car from a salesman you must be willing to walk away from the car of your dreams in order to secure the best deal.  The same idea applies to your business negotiations.  Max Markson once said, “Quite often, your indifference can be the greatest negotiating weapon you have.”  While you may care a great deal about this deal, you must hold firm to those things that matter most to you and be willing to step away if negotiations stray too far from that.

10. Close

It’s important that you recognize the point at which both parties are nearing a successful close.  Be posed to shake on your deal and follow up with all the necessary documents.

Negotiation is an art that takes considerable time and practice to master.  However, following these 10 simple steps can make the process much easier, helping you navigate to a more satisfying conclusion.

Visit Universal’s Free Resources

Universal Accounting Center (UAC) would love to see your practice succeed.  That’s why we offer your business the most valuable resources available.  Feel free to take our virtual UAC Tour to learn more about our training programs that will enhance your practice and your bottom line.  Or visit our free accounting and tax resources.  Either way you’ll want to bookmark the UAC site and return continually to improve your business.

Resources

Sanibel, Michael.  “The Art of Negotiating: A Practical Guide to Getting What You Want, When You Wants It, and at the Price You Want.” 24 August 2009  Entrepreneur.com

Sloan Brothers with Daniel Kehrer.  “10 Techniques for Better Negotiation.” 2005  Yahoo! Small Business

10 Steps in Getting What You Want

Start out with an ideal and end up with a deal.-Karl Albrecht

The most difficult thing in any negotiation, almost, is making sure that you strip it of the emotion and deal with the facts. - Howard Baker

Any business arrangement that is not profitable to the other person will in the end prove unprofitable for you.  The bargain that yields mutual satisfaction is the only one that is apt to be repeated. - B.C. Forbes

From buying a flat screen TV to securing new clients, you must know how to negotiate the best deal possible.  Giving in too soon or holding out too long can both be detrimental.  Negotiation is about balance-it’s about risking just the right amount to achieve what’s best for you and your business.

Some professionals are born with the innate ability to work a deal while others are weary of any situation that requires skillful negotiation.  We’ll admit, negotiating isn’t for the faint of heart, but sometimes learning the necessary steps is all it takes to get your game on, and in the end, close a deal to your satisfaction.  In this two-part series we share 10 steps that can help you improve your approach to the art of negotiation.  This week we’ll examine the first five steps:

1. Prepare

It’s important that you do your research before scheduling any kind of negotiation.  Whether you’re working with a vendor, a client, or your next-door neighbor, you should know what you both have to contribute to the deal.  And what are your weaknesses?  Any good negotiator will have determined yours before the meeting.  Do you know what theirs are?  Also ensure that you are meeting with the one who actually holds the power to seal the deal.  The last thing you want to discover, after going through all 10 of these steps, is that the deal you have secured still needs approval from someone higher up.

2. Time

Timing can be everything.  If you schedule a meeting with a company at its busiest time of the year or after a sudden downturn in the local economy, you will be at a disadvantage.  When scheduling an appointment, ensure that you have selected a good time for both you and the party with whom you’re negotiating.

3. Strategize

Negotiation is all about strategy.  Remember that your first offer sets the tone for all future conversations.  In his Entrepreneur.com article entitled “The Art of Negotiating,” Michael Sanibel explains, “The first offer is usually the most important and the benchmark by which all subsequent offers will be judged and compared.  You’ll never get what you don’t ask for, so make your first offer bold and aggressive.”  Remember that negotiation can be a professional dance where offers are often padded with extra, but unnecessary, amenities that help build price so that it can be whittled down again.  Understanding what, exactly, you want, will help tremendously as you move forward.

4. Listen

On the other hand, it’s equally important that you know what the other party wants, and this can only be achieved when you listen to what they’re saying (this includes body language).

5. Leverage

Know and believe in your own strengths–what you bring to the table.  Only when you have confidence in what you’re offering will you be able to use that as leverage in securing the deal you want.

Complementary Services Act as Great Leverage

Your business will become so much more appealing when you add tax preparation services to your menu; this alone will give you more leverage in closing deals with prospective clients.  In just two short months, tax season will be upon us; that’s just enough time to become a Professional Tax Preparer.  Learn everything you need to know about tax preparation in UAC’s Professional Tax Preparer program.  We’re so confident that it will work for you that we offer a 100% money-back guarantee:

If, after completing all of the learning activities,

you do not feel that you have received your money’s worth,

simply return the materials to Universal Accounting Center,

for a complete refund.

There aren’t many universities out there that would make that promise to its graduates.  Don’t wait another day to enhance your business and change your life.  Enroll today!

Join us next week when we talking about closing the deal with final five steps:

6.    Offer

7.    Anticipate

8.    Aim

9.    Hold Firm

10. Close

Resources

Sanibel, Michael.  “The Art of Negotiating: A Practical Guide to Getting What You Want, When You Wants It, and at the Price You Want.” 24 August 2009  Entrepreneur.com

Sloan Brothers with Daniel Kehrer.  “10 Techniques for Better Negotiation.” 2005  Yahoo! Small Business

9 Steps in Properly Terminating Employees

One of the most difficult things you may have to do as a small business owner is terminate an employee.  Regardless of the reason for taking such action, it’s important that you follow a procedure that ensures you are not only legally protected but also respectful of the employee’s feelings as well.  Last week we shared the first 4 of 9 steps in properly terminating employees:

1.    Be objective

2.    Make it legal

3.    Work out the details

4.    Provide reasons, but don’t belabor the point

This week we’ll share the final 5 steps:

5.    Don’t blame or apologize. If termination is the result of poor employee behavior, you should have already issued various warnings and performance reviews as documentation.  The final termination meeting is not a time to assign blame.  And while you may very well express regret for this action, you should not apologize for your decision.

6.    Express gratitude for work done. Once you explain the reasons for termination, you can thank the employee for the work they have done.  In his article entitled “How to Respectfully Terminate Employees,” Lolito explains, “A terminated employee should understand that while the employment relationship did not work out, the employer appreciated her service and does not fault her in a personal sense.”  In the case of a layoff, offer to write a letter of recommendation and, if you truly valued their work, tell them you would be happy to have them back once the business can sustain that.

7.    Let the employee respond. It’s important that the employee have a voice.  Give him or her the opportunity to respond and react to the decision.  However, as mentioned previously, don’t allow the meeting to turn into a debate or negotiation.

8.    Wrap up loose ends. Be sure to have the employee sign all necessary paperwork, and then take measures to close down their appropriate accounts.  AllBusiness.com recommends, “Prepare to collect everything the company has provided to the employee, and consider which computer passwords, access codes, and permissions must be changed.”

9. Note lessons learned. Once the process is complete it’s important that you review the situation and see what lessons you have learned.  Do you need to create or modify your company handbook in order to address some of the issues you encountered?  Should you revise the job description to better attract applicants with the skills you require?  What types of training might be required in order to ensure that your employees are aware of your expectations?   All this will help you better prepare, and perhaps even eliminate, similar situations in your business’s future.

Termination is distasteful for both the employer and the employee.  However, if you could take measures to ensure it’s done properly, you will save yourself a lot of difficulty in the future.

Increase Your Appeal by Offering Tax Preparation Services

You can increase your income and your ability to maintain a staff of employees when you add tax services to your menu.  Consider the fact that many tax preparers make more money in the months leading up to the April 15 tax deadline than others make all year long! Since all individuals and businesses, small or large, are required to file taxes, tax preparation is a respected skill that will always be in demand. And many of your current and prospective clients would probably be happy to have you file their taxes as well as do your accounting for them.

Also consider who your clients will trust to file their taxes.  Countless individuals are scammed each year by people who claim to know what they’re doing.  More and more are becoming weary of tax preparers without any credentials.  The Tax Preparer Designation will put many of those individuals at ease, assuring them that you have been properly trained in tax preparation.

Take time this summer to acquire the expertise necessary to become a Professional Tax Preparer before next tax season.  UAC’s Professional Tax Preparer (PTP) program will not only give you hands-on training in completing full individual (1040) and business returns (1065, 1120, 1120S), but it will also provide you with the following:

• 20 hours of valuable video instruction
• 2 instructional manuals
• Step-by-step instruction in becoming a sole practitioner
• One year of follow-up support from expert tax preparers
• The opportunity to earn valuable professional certification
• Our iron-clad, risk-free guarantee

Increasing your service offerings will increase your appeal and your bottom line.  Enroll in the Professional Tax Preparer Program today, and improve your competitive advantage while securing your business standing in the local community.

Resources

“How to Fire an Employee.” AllBusiness.com

Lolito, Michael J.  “How to Respectfully Terminate Employees.” 18 August 2008  Entrepreneur.com

9 Steps in Properly Terminating Employees

Donald Trump may have built a popular reality television series based upon his famous catch phrase, “You’re fired,” but in the real world, terminating employees requires more consideration, respect, and often, legal counsel.  Many small business owners are considering a serious reduction in staff in order to decrease costs and give their businesses a fighting chance of surviving the recession.  If you find yourself in the same boat, it’s important that you consider the legal ramifications for yourself as well as the emotional ramifications for your employee(s).  In this two-part series we’ll be sharing 9 steps that will help you best approach the process of terminating an employee.  In this article we will cover the first 5 of those steps:

1.    Be objective. Michael Lolito, in his article “How to Respectfully Terminate Employees” on Entrepreneur.com, explains that the decision to terminate should be a factual rather than an emotional one.  When making this decision you should collect all necessary paperwork.  In the case of termination, gather employee performance reviews, correspondence with the employee, and any written warnings that may have been issued.  In the case of a layoff, you may look into any paperwork required for severance pay and/or an extension of benefits.

2.    Make it legal. Whether you’re terminating or laying off an employee, you should consult with a lawyer in order to make sure that the process you follow is legal and will protect you from future lawsuits should a disgruntled employee decide to sue.  Also ensure that all necessary documentation has been gathered and filled out.  Your lawyer will probably offer you additional advice before meeting with the employee.

3.    Work out the details. Before meeting with the employee, you should work out all necessary details.  As mentioned previously, predetermine any type of severance package you plan to offer; the details of such a severance package should be based upon company policy or lawyer recommendation.  Also consider how long the employee will work for you before the termination is final.  Often, employers give the employee the option of working for the remainder of the week, or leaving immediately.  As long as the employee does not become violent or belligerent, you should not require an immediate vacation of the premises.

4.    Provide reasons, but don’t belabor the point. As soon as you know that termination is eminent, you should take measures to schedule an appointment with the employee. If possible, invite a human resource representative to witness the termination. Also avoid creating a tense and adverse environment for this meeting.  It should begin with reasons for the termination which are clear and to the point, however don’t belabor the discussion.  And while the employee may definitely want to voice a response, this meeting should not become a debate or negotiation.

Terminating an employee can be one of the most difficult things you do as a small business owner.  However, it’s often necessary to ensure the success of your practice.  One thing that could help is to offer employee training; it could boost performance and solidify an understanding of employer expectations.

UAC Offers Onsite Employee Training

UAC has been training professionals for 30 years in bookkeeping, accounting and tax services.  We know what your clients need; we know what your business needs.  And a knowledgeable, trained staff will do wonders for your bottom line.  Whether it be business management, accounting, or tax training, we can provide complete, onsite training for your employees.  And regardless of their positions, we can help them understand how their work contributes to your business model.  Learn more by visiting UAC’s website today!

Return next week when we’ll be covering the final 5 steps in properly terminating an employee:

5.    Don’t blame or apologize

6.    Express gratitude for work done

7.    Let the employee respond

8.    Wrap up loose ends

9.    Note lessons learned

Resources

“How to Fire an Employee.” AllBusiness.com

Lolito, Michael J.  “How to Respectfully Terminate Employees.” 18 August 2008  Entrepreneur.com

Have you ever been to a home that was last decorated in the 1970’s?  How could you tell?  Did the shag carpet give it away?  Or maybe the mustard yellow countertops?  Or was it the dark wood paneling in the basement?

Most people can tell when you’ve neglected a “look,” be it for your home, your wardrobe or even your business.  Unfortunately, when you neglect your business’s marketing materials for too long, your brand becomes tired and worn and your look suggests dated services and an old fashioned approach to financial management.

Your Brand

A brand is what sets a business apart.  When you “brand” your small business, you market it in such a way that anyone seeing your promotions will recognize them as belonging to your products and services.  If you have branded your business based on the quality of services you offer, all your promotional materials should somehow share that message.  And if you designed your website using two colors, those colors should also be found on your print materials, your business cards, and your signage.

So whether you’re establishing your brand for the first time or giving it a new look, you should consider the following two tips, as taken from Emma Johnson’s article entitled “Brand Makeovers”:

1. Broaden Appeal

Before the iPod, the iMac, and iTunes, Apple was considered a limited brand with a narrow consumer base.  That’s hard to believe now, where just about everyone has an iPod.  To achieve that widespread appeal, Apple updated their brand by marketing their new products to a broader demographic.

Perhaps you began your practice by offering specialized services to a narrow market.  As you revise your brand, consider following Apple’s lead by broadening your appeal.  You do this by making your services more accessible to a larger consumer base; what do you have to offer both the small dry cleaner down the street and the gym franchise that’s statewide?  Your brand should reflect your desire to offer accounting solutions to all businesses.

2. Differentiate

Update your brand to stand out from the competition.  You do this by differentiating your services from the pack.  Johnson uses Target as an example of a discount store that differentiated its brand as the one with high-style, fashion-forward products.  The result is a popular discount chain that attracts consumers interested in quality products with reasonable prices.

When you differentiate your brand you focus on those elements that set you apart from the competition.  Whether it be price, customer service or service offerings, you want your brand to appear unique and matchless.

All businesses need a makeover now and then.  Is yours due?  Consider these two approaches in revising your brand so that you can increase your appeal to more prospective clients.

More Than One Way to Market Your Practice

Branding is just one way to promote your business.  And if you want to grow your accounting practice, you’re probably interested in other, more effective ways of attracting new clients.  Unfortunately, many accountants and bookkeepers are unaware of how to market their services effectively.  That’s why, for 30 years, Universal Accounting Center has been training professionals like you how to promote their businesses.  The Universal Practice Builder program will train you in the following (and much more):

• Increasing your annualized billings by $30,000 within the next 12 months
• 12 proven marketing strategies that will increase your client base
• Techniques that can generate 15 to 25 qualified leads per month
• Creating your own customized marketing plan
• Effective phone marketing techniques

In a matter of hours, you will know exactly what you need to do to grow your business.  Advance your accounting practice to the next level and become the premier firm in your area.  To learn more, visit our website and listen to testimonials of our very own graduates, sharing what they found most valuable in this program.

Resource

Johnson, Emma.  “Brand Makeovers: 3 Lessons in Reinvention.”  24 November 2008  Entreprenteur.com

In this economy, the race isn’t won by the quickest, but by the most agile.  As you rethink your business, consider your flexibility.  Unlike large corporations that are unable to quickly change course, small businesses have the advantage of being quick and nimble, which just might be their saving grace.

The current recession is requiring many entrepreneurs to adapt and evolve their businesses, altering their approach to better suit the ever-changing market and consumer needs.  So stretch yourself as you consider how you might improve your flexibility by applying the following four tips.

1. Take advantage of technology

If you’re not careful, you could miss the technology train and all the great, economical marketing techniques that go with it.  The following two suggestions will lure the technologically savvy and/or those that are impressed with your ability to remain current:

Build a Business website. If you don’t already have a website, you should get one.  Progressive businesses have an internet presence; it speaks volumes of their professionalism and ability to keep up with current trends.  A good website will represent you well and increase your clientele.  It will also work 24/7 as a virtual receptionist, getting the word out about your business while you spend your time doing what you do best: accounting.  And if well developed, your business website can act as an inexpensive marketing tool and a good point of contact.  It can also help to further brand your business.

Universal Accounting Center (UAC) has a website development tool, available exclusively for accounting, tax, and bookkeeping professionals.  Visit our Accountweb site to learn more about how you can have a website of your own in a matter of days.

Take advantage of social networking.  From Facebook to Twitter, more and more businesses are taking advantage of social networking tools in order to broadcast news about their services, and most of these tools are free!

2. Rethink your marketing strategy

The same old approach you’ve used in the past probably isn’t very effective in this current financial climate. If you build a business website and take advantage of social networking, you’re on the right path.  Also consider other demographics that might now find your financial services especially helpful.  And don’t give up on prospects.  The recession has caused many to be more selective when it comes to spending their money; often this means that prospects take longer to commit. 

3. Listen to your clients

They can best tell you how to alter your approach in order to better suit their current needs.  Tap into their expertise as consumers to determine what they’re most concerned about; while you may not consider this a service your currently offer, you would be surprised at how appreciative your clients become when you resolve their financial concerns.  And isn’t that your expertise?

4. Expand your services

In listening to your clients and trying to better meet their needs, you will find that many desire you to expand your services.  Becoming a one-stop financial shop would be much more convenient for them, and lucrative for you!  Adding tax preparation services to your menu will increase your clientele while making your services more appealing to current clients.

The Professional Tax Preparer Program!

Universal Accounting Center’s tax preparer program contains all of the following:

• Video Instruction
• Full 1040
• Full Business Returns (1065, 1120, 1120S)
• Step-by-step instruction in starting a sole practitioner
• One Year Follow-up Support from expert tax preparers

And while many programs will lecture you on tax law and preparation practices, Universal’s program is effective because it provides the practical application that will perfect your skills.  Theory is taught as guiding principles, but the focus is on actually doing taxes to gain proficiency.

The PTP course consists of 20 hours of video training. Most tax preparation courses include books and some worksheets. Our training is very engaging and entertaining as seasoned tax preparers give practical advice on not only tax issues, but provide real-world solutions to give you the edge in productivity and profitability. Our instructors know what challenges you will face because they have been there themselves.

To be honest, you don’t need a Professional Tax Preparer designation to prepare taxes.  Currently, there are no qualifications for any individual to complete tax returns.  But in today’s world of complex tax laws and increasing tax fraud occurrences, tax payers are looking for specialists with credentials.  It affords clients peace of mind to know that the individual they’re working with is qualified and knowledgeable.  It also affords the tax preparer peace of mind to know they’ve been properly trained.  Universal recognizes the value of a professional designation and awards the Professional Tax Preparer designation to those who successfully complete the program.

Modules in the Professional Tax Preparer program include the following:

Module 1: Establishing the Tax Foundation

Module 2: Becoming the 1040 Expert

Module 3: Profitable Business Returns

Module 4: Building Your Successful Tax Practic

In just 20 hours you will be ready to face tax season with confidence and ease.  One tax season alone will prove lucrative enough to pay for the program 3 times over!  Increase your flexibility, and enroll in the Professional Tax Preparer Program today!

Most of us assume that we can increase our energy levels by getting the proper amount of rest, eating healthy foods, and exercising regularly.  Brian Tracy, motivational speaker and author, would argue that’s only partially correct.  While that may help increase our physical energy, we also need to attend to our mental and emotional energy levels, which can be easily depleted.

Mental Energy

Tracy claims that mental energy is what powers your ability to be creative, solve problems and make decisions.  You draw from this energy as your manage your clients’ accounts, accruing those all-important billable hours.  The more efficient your use of this energy, the more productive, and ultimately, the more profitable you will be.

Emotional Energy

This is where you will find your enthusiasm and passion for what your do.  Not only does this energy power your business, but it’s also what makes your personal life enjoyable as well.  You can power-up your emotional energy by ensuring that you spend quality time with those you care about, doing the things your love.

The Connection

Physical energy, mental energy and emotional energy all power your business.  And a reduction in any of these energy levels affects the others.  It’s important that you recognize this connection and conserve energy when possible.  We can quickly burn through emotional energy by expressing negative emotions.   Of those who do this, Tracy explains, “Negative emotions are like a fire that burns up their energy so quickly they have very little left with which to think positively and constructively.  In fact, one five-minute uncontrolled outburst of anger can burn up as much energy as an average person would use in eight hours of work.”

He offers three tips in ensuring that you have a healthy supply of these interconnected energy types:

1. It’s an old standby because it’s true: the better you attend to your physical needs, the more energy you’ll enjoy.  While it may sound redundant, getting the proper amount of rest, eating healthy foods, and exercising regularly will power your throughout the day and enable you to feel equal to the challenge of your daily To-Do lists.
2. Recognize how you’re depleting your energy levels and which type of energy-physical, mental, emotional-you rely on most.  Consider ways you can better balance your energy levels and recharge and conserve when possible.
3. Plug up those energy leaks by better managing your stress.  You will also build your energy levels when you practice positive thinking and focus on living a more relaxed and optimistic life.

When you make a conscious effort to increase your energy, you’ll find that your business responds in kind.  Take measures today to ensure that you recharge your battery and your business.

Universal Accounting Center (UAC) Makes It Easy

Confidence is a key energizer.  It can increase your energy levels more than just about any other emotion.  And if it’s confidence you’re looking for, UAC can help.  Our graduates leave our programs with the confidence necessary to start and/or grow their own businesses.  Read what they’re saying about our Professional Bookkeeper Program:

This course has literally changed my life. When I started I hardly knew the difference between a debit and a credit. Now I have the confidence to tackle almost any type of business and do their books.-A. Moody

Great practical course providing you with the skills and self-confidence to go out and build your own bookkeeping/accounting service.-B. Pace

The subject matter covered in your course has been invaluable. I have worked in the accounting field for the past six years; your course gave me the training and confidence I needed to advance in this area.-G. Morton

This course is definitely NOT just an introductory course, although it is wonderful even for beginners. It is a comprehensive accounting and bookkeeping course that truly taught me everything I would need to know to start my own accounting business, and gain clients with confidence.-J. Young

What makes this program so special?  Taught by seasoned professionals who understand the unique demand for small-business accountants, this self-paced program will train you using a hands-on instructional approach designed to give you the experience necessary to start a business’s books from scratch.  Whether you’ve been working in the accounting profession for years or have little experience at all, this course will help you gain the knowledge and confidence necessary to start and/or grow your own accounting practice.

The Professional Bookkeeper Program

This course is comprised of four modules contained on DVD so you can view them again and again.

• Module 1-Accounting Made Easy
• Module 2-Practical Small Business Applications
• Module 3-Advancing your “Account-Ability”
• Module 4-Building a Successful Accounting Service

Each one comes with its own manual where you are expected to practice the concepts and skills you learn.  Upon completion, you will take an exam through which you can earn professional certification, demonstrating your expertise to prospective clients.

In addition to all that you will also receive two additional months of follow-up support, your own customize business website, and two additional practice sets.

Get the training necessary to boost your emotional energy by developing greater confidence-your accounting practice depends upon it.  Order today!

Resource

Tracy, Brian.  “Increase Your Three Types of Energy.” 30 June 2008.  Brian Tracy International

Focus more on your desire than on your doubt, and the dream will take care of itself. You may be surprised at how easily this happens. Your doubts are not as powerful as your desires, unless you make them so. — Marcia Wieder

The term “overachiever” generally has a negative connotation.  Some talk of overachievers as workaholics with no personal lives to speak of, while others imagine annoying professionals that are somewhat arrogant and a little too full of their own accomplishments.  However, Webster defines “overachiever” as “one who achieves success over and above the standard or expected level especially at an early age.”  If that’s the case, I’m guessing most of us wouldn’t mind becoming overachievers, again and again and again.  But what does it take?

1. Recognize your passion

Truly successful athletes can practice their sport for hours because they become lost in the game.  Some describe it as finding their groove, getting in the zone, or achieving “flow.”  This is a somewhat magical experience where skills are heightened and physical limitations cease to exist, as does time.  This same thing can be experienced by professionals who truly find their passion; they can achieve “flow” by working optimally while losing track of time because they simply enjoy what they’re doing.  If this is a common occurrence at your practice, then you’re on your way to becoming a true overachiever.

2. Recognize the tedium

It’s common to experience boredom every now and then, regardless of how passionate you may be about your work.  There’s always paperwork to be filed, reports to be run, and tasks on your To-Do list that don’t inspire.  However, that tedium should not consume your day.  If that boredom causes you to dread going to work each day, it may be time to reevaluate your career choice and point yourself in another professional direction.

3. Stay a little longer

In his Entrepreneur.com post entitled “5 Tips to Become a High-Achiever,” Scott Halford  shares this tip in outlasting, outsmarting and overachieving the competition.  He explains that in 1984, when Peter Vidmar led the US men’s Olympic gymnastics team to gold, the one thing Vidmar did differently from everyone else was stay and practice a little longer.  In order to become the premier accountant in your area you must do the equivalent.  Read that extra article, participate in that specialized training, call that one last client.

4. Focus your energy

As a child you may have focused the sun’s energy through a magnifying glass in order to start a small flame.  When you focus your own energy in the same way, you can accomplish great things in your professional life.  Try not to get bogged down by the tedious and unnecessary.  That’s distracting and will limit your potential.  Continually focus your energy on the big picture and where you want your business to go.  You’ll be amazed at how this alone will magnify your practice’s success.

5. Take action

You’ll never accomplish anything if you spend all your time just thinking about it.  Overachievers act again and again.  In fact, after a time it becomes a habit-creating business strategies and then acting on them.

6. Continually improve

The truly successful recognize the need to continually improve their skills which enables them to maintain that competitive advantage.  Seek opportunities to become the expert in your field.  It’s impossible to have too much expertise.

UAC’s Training Can Help

The Professional Bookkeeper (PB) Program is just the course you need to hone your skills and become specialized in small-business accounting, the most lucrative market for contract accountants.  In less than 60 hours you can learn everything you need to know to start your own accounting practice or improve the one you’re currently running.  The time is right to overachieve.  Take action today and enroll in UAC’s Professional Bookkeeper Program.

Resources

Halford, Scott.  “5 Tips to Become a High-Achiever.” 29 June 2009  Entrepreneur.com

10 Tips in Establishing and Maintaining a Healthy Client Connection

Last week we discussed securing clients with effective follow-up calls.  Your job isn’t over once that prospect joins your clientele; you must continually manage client relationships in order to ensure customer satisfaction and a good working rapport.  This doesn’t need to take a lot of time, but you must continually be aware of your current standing with clients and take measures as necessary.  In this series we will discuss 10 things to remember when managing client relationships.  This week we will cover 5 of those tips:

1. Determine client expectations upfront

Many of your clients may not have worked with an accountant or bookkeeper before and are unsure what to expect.  The rest have and may be running on old expectations.  It’s important to have a preliminary meeting where you define the relationship and your expectations, taking special note of what your clients expect from you.  You may need to negotiate some of these expectations so that both you and your client are satisfied.

2. Have a contract with clear specifications

You shouldn’t perform any services for a client until he or she has signed a contract detailing the specifications of your working relationship.  And don’t allow a client to sign a contract blindly.  Verbally discuss some of those specifications that will influence your future interactions.  For example, if your contract covers specific services, and you plan on charging for any additional services not specified in your initial agreement, tell the client that upfront.  This is one key step in establishing a healthy relationship with your client, and it’s much easier to establish a healthy relationship than it is to fix an unhealthy one.

3. Establish and honor boundaries

You must establish and honor your boundaries with a client.  This includes work hours and communication.  Once you establish these “rules” with a client it’s important that you consistently follow them yourself.  For example, consider your work hours. Obviously emergencies happen, and your clients should know how to reach you in such circumstances.  But otherwise you need to do all you can to ensure your boundaries are respected.  This means you shouldn’t answer your phone after hours.

4. Communicate often

You should establish a method of regularly reporting to your clients in order to distribute key accounting data and inform them of any red flags or key indicators they should be aware of.  Discuss a method that appeals to both of you.  Some may prefer email while others would like a verbal report over the phone.  Whatever the case, you should not be afraid to communicate frequently if the information requires it.

5. Keep your promises

If you tell a client that you will submit a monthly report before the first week of the following month, don’t be late.  Your ability to follow through on your promises is not only a reflection of your professionalism but an expression of respect for your client.

Your ability to effectively manage client relationships can determine just how successful your business will be.  Without a clientele your business will fail; ensuring client satisfaction can come in applying these 10 tips for establishing and maintaining a healthy client connection.

Return next week when we cover the final 5 tips in effectively managing client relationships:

6.    Maintain professionalism

7.    Resolve conflict quickly

8.    Request feedback

9.    Remember your client is your best marketing agent

10. Part ways, when absolutely necessary

Grow Your Practice with Expertise and Marketing Know-How

There are a handful of ways you can improve your business, and only some of them will work.  We suggest growing your business by enhancing your expertise and your marketing skills.

Small-Business Expertise

You can better service your clients by specializing in small-business accounting.  Over 85% of the opportunities in the accounting field are within small businesses.  Universities prepare their students for corporate accounting which doesn’t address small business needs.  More than 50% of small businesses fail, and much of that failure can be attributed to lack of accounting expertise.  That’s where you step in.  With expertise in small business accounting, you can help small businesses succeed.

At Universal Accounting, we understand the needs of the small business like nobody else. We’ve helped people like you advance their career in small business accounting for over 25 years. The Professional Bookkeeper Program is designed specifically to address the needs of small businesses, and Universal Accounting Center’s small business accounting course is the most complete of anything else offered today.  And depending on your schedule and situation, it will only take you 60 hours to complete.  Imagine earning a professional designation in less than one month!

Marketing Know-How

One of the greatest challenges for many small business owners comes in the marketing.  You may love working with numbers but groan at the thought of promoting your services and expertise.  Universal Accounting Center understands this struggle and can help you eliminate it.

UAC has developed a turn-key marketing solution which will enable you to grow your business with our proven system.   You could work for years on a marketing plan, hitting and missing, only to find your business growing at a snail’s pace.  Imagine learning which marketing strategies work in just a number of weeks!

The Universal Practice Builder is a training program designed to teach you the art and science of securing clients.  Top your Professional Bookkeeper Designation off with this guaranteed program where you’ll walk away with over 12 marketing strategies that you can implement immediately.

Enroll in these business-changing programs now!