Roses are Red, Violets are Blue, Here's How Not to Have a Valentine's Day Snafu
This Valentine's Day, you're probably thinking about whether you need to buy chocolates or flowers for your significant other. While finding the right gift is important, there is another critical relationship you are likely overlooking.
According to Xero's research, 65% of failed entrepreneurs blame financial issues for their downfall. As a result, to help entrepreneurs thrive, accountants should prioritize their relationships with their small business owner clients this Valentine's Day.
So, whether you believe in Cupid or not, here are a few ways to transform a tax-season fling into a long-lasting relationship:
1. Prepare for the first date: First impressions count! Just like you would take the extra time to straighten out a dress or tuck in a shirt, spend some time preparing for your first meeting. For accountants, this means being polite and checking-in with your "date" before the first get together to make sure they have all the information they need. This includes reminding them to sort through the scraps of papers and receipts they have lying around in advance in order to streamline the process.
2. Pick the right spot: You never really get to know someone at a noisy restaurant--it's just too hard to hear! This is particularly important for accountants to remember as long-lasting relationships are rooted in open discussions about the small business owner's vision for his or her future.
3. Be honest from the start: Accountants should take time to explain the benefits of hosting financial information on the cloud, as opposed to in a shoebox or on a desktop. As your relationship grows, you can demonstrate how the cloud allows for better visibility and collaboration, which directly correlates with better financial health.
Be it through sickness and health, good times and bad, small business owners and accountants are always stronger when they are standing side by side.
Amy Vetter is Global Vice President of Education and head of accounting-USA at Xero