Building the Premier Accounting Firm

Join us this Wednesday for a new episode where Roger discusses the 7 stages and challenges founders face with Scott Ritzheimer.  

Join us as we revisit this conversation from 2020! Getting out of the fog associated with running and accounting business is easier said than done.  There is value having a business coach help you work ON your accounting business.  Bookkeeping is an essential part of a successful business so let’s get excited within the profession to make a difference in business. Having clients is the first step to having a successful business, doing the work efficiently and effectively is the key to then being profitable.  Hear what elements Michael and Roger share to help you run your business right. Your Host: Roger Knecht, president of Universal Accounting Center Our Guest: Michael Palmer, CEO of Pure Bookkeeping Michael Palmer is also the host of The Successful Bookkeeper podcast and an acclaimed business coach who has helped hundreds of bookkeepers across the world push through their fears and exponentially grow their businesses and achieve the quality of life they've always wanted.   Sponsors: Universal Accounting Center Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth.   Offers: Run your business effectively and profitably, get your free copy of: “in the BLACK, nine principles to make your business profitable” – e-book The Seven Secrets Value Pack for Bookkeepers   Listen in as Roger and Michael continue this discuss together on The Successful Bookkeeper Podcast How to Increase the Value of Your Bookkeeping Business – Episode 88 How To Make Your Bookkeeping Business More Profitable) – Episode 100   Learn more about Pure Bookkeeping   Remember this, Accounting Success IS Universal. Listen to our next episode and be sure to subscribe.   For more information on how you can apply these principles in your business please visit us at www.universalaccountingschool.com or call us at 801.265.3777

In this episode, Universal Accounting President and host Roger Knecht sits down with Rebecca Howell to explore her transformative journey in the accounting industry. From a passion for math to a thriving 20-year career in bookkeeping, Rebecca’s story is one of growth, adaptation, and strategic transition that we in the industry can relate to and learn from. Key Highlights: Early Beginnings and Business Growth:  Rebecca’s love for numbers propelled her into bookkeeping, supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs. Launching her own firm in 2003, she expanded her client base significantly, aided by Intuit’s proadvisor program. Adapting to Industry Changes:  As Intuit shifted to offering its own services, Rebecca refocused on building long-term client relationships and empowering her team, resulting in impressive growth from 40 clients in 2019 to over 200 by 2022. Leadership and Personal Challenges:  Facing challenges in leadership and team dynamics, Rebecca hired a business coach to enhance communication.  They discuss how the stress of being the sole tax preparer took a toll on her health, leading to the sale of her business for personal well-being. Identity and Purpose Reflection:  Letting go of tax clients led to an identity crisis and a reevaluation of her purpose beyond business ownership.  Rebecca underscores the importance of a sustainable business model and early exit strategy planning. Transition to New Roles:  Finding fulfillment in transitioning from a fractional CFO to exit planning, Rebecca advocates for prioritizing profit, inspired by the book “Profit First.” Entrepreneurial Advice:  Rebecca emphasizes the necessity of early exit strategy planning, comparing business maintenance to caring for a home or vehicle.  Her journey highlights the balance between work and personal life, with a strong support network playing a crucial role. Reassessing Priorities: The discussion encourages listeners to reassess their priorities, learn to say no, and leverage resources like podcasts and conferences for continued professional development. Rebecca’s journey is a testament to the power of passion, a supportive network, and a strong work ethic in navigating the challenges and opportunities within the accounting field. If you’d like to follow Rebecca’s footsteps toward building your own accounting firm, reach out to Universal Accounting Center at 435-344-4060 to learn how.   Sponsors: Universal Accounting Center Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth.   Offers: Offering a free business valuation https://exitsuccess.bizequity.com/   Get a FREE copy of these books all accounting professionals should use to work on their business and become profitable.  These are a must-have addition to every accountant’s library to provide quality CFO & Advisory services as a Profit & Growth Expert today: “Red to BLACK in 30 days – A small business accountant’s guide to QUICK turnarounds” – This is a how-to guide on how to turn around a struggling business into a more sustainable model. Each chapter focuses on a crucial aspect of the turnaround process - from cash flow management to strategies for improving revenue. This book will teach you everything you need to become a turnaround expert for small businesses. “in the BLACK, nine principles to make your business profitable” – Nine Principles to Make Your Business Profitable – Discover what you need to know to run the premier accounting firm and get paid what you are worth in this book, by the same author as Red to Black – CPA Allen B. Bostrom. Bostrom teaches the three major functions of business (marketing, production and accounting) as well as strategies for maximizing profitability for your clients by creating actionable plans to implement the nine principles. “Your Strategic Accountant” - Understand the 3 Core Accounting Services (CAS - Client Accounting Services) you should offer as you run your business. Help your clients understand which numbers they need to know to make more informed business decisions. “Your Profit & Growth Expert” - Your business is an asset. You should know its value and understand how to maximize it. Beginning with the end in mind helps you work ON your business to build a company you can leave so that it can continue to exist in your absence or build wealth as you retire and enjoy the time, freedom, and life you want and deserve. Follow the Turnkey Business plan for accounting professionals.  This is the proven process to start and build the premier accounting firm in your area.  After more than 40 years we’ve identified the best practices of successful accountants and this is a presentation we are happy to share.     Also learn the best practices to automate and nurture your lead generation process allowing you to get the bookkeeping, accounting and tax clients you deserve.  GO HERE to see this presentation and learn what you can do today to identify and engage with your ideal clients.   Check it out and see what you can do to be in business for yourself but not by yourself with Universal Accounting Center.   It’s here you can become a:   Professional Bookkeeper, PB Professional Tax Preparer, PTP Profit & Growth Expert, PGE   Next, join a group of like-minded professionals within the accounting community.  Register to attend GrowCon and Stay up-to-date on current topics and trends and see what you can do to also give back, participating in relevant conversations as they relate to offering quality accounting services and building your bookkeeping, accounting & tax business.   The Accounting & Bookkeeping Tips Facebook Group The Universal Accounting Fanpage Topical Newsletters: Universal Accounting Success The Universal Newsletter   Lastly, get your Business Score to see what you can do to work ON your business and have the Premier Accounting Firm. Join over 70,000 business owners and get your score on the 8 Factors That Drive Your Company’s Value.   For Additional FREE Resources for accounting professionals check out this collection HERE!   Be sure to join us for GrowCon, the LIVE event for accounting professionals to work ON their business. This is a conference you don’t want to miss.   Remember this, Accounting Success IS Universal. Listen to our next episode and be sure to subscribe.   Also, let us know what you think of the podcast and please share any suggestions you may have.  We look forward to your input: Podcast Feedback   For more information on how you can apply these principles to start and build your accounting, bookkeeping & tax business please visit us at www.universalaccountingschool.com or call us at 8012653777  

Join us this Wednesday for a new episode where Roger discusses Growing and selling a business with Rebecca Howell

Join us as we revisit this conversation from 2020! In the hustle of the day-to-day activities it’s important to pause, become present and live with intent.  Listen as Roger and Mitchel discuss ways to create and live our own personal legacies today with purpose and intent.  As we get old life can appear to be passing us by but here is the opportunity we each need to reassess and prioritize what we are doing. Your Host: Roger Knecht, president of Universal Accounting Center Our Guest: Mitchell Levy Global Credibility Expert Mitchell Levy (pronounced Lee Vee) is a TEDx speaker and international bestselling author of over 60 books.  As The AHA Guy at AHAthat (https://AHAthat.com), he helps to extract the genius from your head in a two hour interview so that his team can ghostwrite your book, publish it, distribute it, and make you an Amazon bestselling author in four months. He is an accomplished Entrepreneur who has created twenty businesses in Silicon Valley including four publishing companies that have published over 850 books. He's provided strategic consulting to over one hundred companies and has been chairman of the board of a NASDAQ-listed company. Mitchell has been happily married for thirty years and regularly spends four weeks in Europe with family and friends.   Sponsors: Universal Accounting Center Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth.   MitchellLevy360   Offers: See my interview with Mitchell here as it relate to building the premier accounting firm Get a FREE copy of each of two book all accounting professionals should use to offer trusted strategic advisory services and get paid what they are worth.  These are must have additions to every accountants library to provide the value clients look for today: “in the BLACK, nine principles to make your business profitable” – e-book “Red to BLACK in 30 days – A small business accountant’s guide to QUICK turnarounds” – the how-to-guide e-book for accounting professionals BEing Seen & BEing Heard as a Thought Leader! | Listen to Mitchell Levy’s Ted Talk In today's connected society, how "should" we present ourselves to those that "should" be listening? Who we were and how we interacted in the agriculture and industry ages was so much different than it is today and will be in the truly interconnected social age. What should we expect? What do we need to do to prepare ourselves? The AHA Guy Mitchell Levy will tie together the concepts of BEing yourself, active listening, defining "your" success, and growing the "right" audience. Expect a handful of AHAs when watching and listening to his talk. Remember this, Accounting Success IS Universal. Listen to our next episode and be sure to subscribe.   For more information on how you can apply these principles in your business please visit us at www.universalaccountingschool.com or call us at 801.265.3777

In this enlightening episode, host Roger Knecht sits down with Craig Primo, a FINRA licensed investment banker, to explore the multifaceted process of selling a business. Craig shares invaluable insights into the essential role accountants play in ensuring smooth and successful transactions. Whether you’re planning an exit strategy or facing an unexpected sale, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you prepare. Main Themes: The Critical Role of Accountants: Craig and Roger note the importance of maintaining accurate financial records during a sale. They discuss challenges posed by outdated accounting methods during sales. Craig highlights the necessity of GAAP-compliant statements for attracting buyers. Understanding Financial Metrics: Roger and Craig discuss key metrics such as gross profit margins and liquidity ratios. Detailed financial data analysis creates opportunities for accountants in a sale. Enhancing collaboration between accountants and clients to identify growth opportunities and prevent burnout. Debt and Growth: Craig explains how to  leverage debt for business growth versus traditional cash reserves. They discuss the risks of over-leverage and the phenomenon of “zombie companies.” Granular Financial Analysis: Roger offers advice on managing legacy products and shifting focus to more profitable opportunities. They note the role of private equity in identifying inefficiencies. Professionalism in Accounting: They explain the pyramid model of accounting needs based on business size and maturity. Craig emphasizes the need for a transition from growth-focused to structured financial management. Proactive Financial Planning: Craig offers advice on preparing for business exits. Roger highlights strategies for securing loans and avoiding missed opportunities. They break down the differences between LLCs and C Corporations, and the use of Phantom stock for employee retention. Financial Statements and Trends: Analyzing financial statements to understand trends and improve cash flow. Managing receivables, payables, and inventory. Importance of timely bookkeeping and strategic accounting partnerships. Business Sales Scenarios: Unexpected sales and the need for urgent documentation. Proactive preparations for sale. Planning for venture capital with a 3 to 5-year sale timeline. Emotional Challenges in Sales: Emotional factors complicating the sale process, especially in family businesses. Recognizing and addressing emotional challenges to facilitate smooth transitions. Complex Business Transactions: Impact of events like death or family disputes on transactions. Equity distribution disputes and differing valuations. Accountants’ role in providing strategic support, timely information, and accurate forecasting. Join us for an in-depth discussion on how to navigate the complexities of selling a business with expert guidance from Craig Primo. Whether you’re an entrepreneur or an accountant, this episode offers valuable strategies to ensure a seamless and profitable transition. For more information on how you could broker these complex transactions, call 435-344-4060 to connect with Universal Accounting Center. Sponsors: Universal Accounting Center Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth.   Offers: Find & Follow - In Find & Follow, Greg & Jonathan DeVore provide the key to solving the knowledge transfer problem and transforming your business. Don’t spend another day wasting your and your team’s time relying on tribal knowledge – get a copy now!   Create a Culture of Accountability.  This is a training to help understand and implement clear expectations.  Easy to implement, quick to experience results.  We refer to it as the S.T.A.R. Training program.   Get a FREE copy of these books all accounting professionals should use to work on their business and become profitable.  These are a must-have addition to every accountant’s library to provide quality CFO & Advisory services as a Profit & Growth Expert today: “Red to BLACK in 30 days – A small business accountant’s guide to QUICK turnarounds” – This is a how-to guide on how to turn around a struggling business into a more sustainable model. Each chapter focuses on a crucial aspect of the turnaround process - from cash flow management to strategies for improving revenue. This book will teach you everything you need to become a turnaround expert for small businesses. “in the BLACK, nine principles to make your business profitable” – Nine Principles to Make Your Business Profitable – Discover what you need to know to run the premier accounting firm and get paid what you are worth in this book, by the same author as Red to Black – CPA Allen B. Bostrom. Bostrom teaches the three major functions of business (marketing, production and accounting) as well as strategies for maximizing profitability for your clients by creating actionable plans to implement the nine principles. “Your Strategic Accountant” - Understand the 3 Core Accounting Services (CAS - Client Accounting Services) you should offer as you run your business. Help your clients understand which numbers they need to know to make more informed business decisions. “Your Profit & Growth Expert” - Your business is an asset. You should know its value and understand how to maximize it. Beginning with the end in mind helps you work ON your business to build a company you can leave so that it can continue to exist in your absence or build wealth as you retire and enjoy the time, freedom, and life you want and deserve. Follow the Turnkey Business plan for accounting professionals.  This is the proven process to start and build the premier accounting firm in your area.  After more than 40 years we’ve identified the best practices of successful accountants and this is a presentation we are happy to share.     Also learn the best practices to automate and nurture your lead generation process allowing you to get the bookkeeping, accounting and tax clients you deserve.  GO HERE to see this presentation and learn what you can do today to identify and engage with your ideal clients.   Check it out and see what you can do to be in business for yourself but not by yourself with Universal Accounting Center.   It’s here you can become a:   Professional Bookkeeper, PB Professional Tax Preparer, PTP Profit & Growth Expert, PGE   Next, join a group of like-minded professionals within the accounting community.  Register to attend GrowCon and Stay up-to-date on current topics and trends and see what you can do to also give back, participating in relevant conversations as they relate to offering quality accounting services and building your bookkeeping, accounting & tax business.   The Accounting & Bookkeeping Tips Facebook Group The Universal Accounting Fanpage Topical Newsletters: Universal Accounting Success The Universal Newsletter   Lastly, get your Business Score to see what you can do to work ON your business and have the Premier Accounting Firm. Join over 70,000 business owners and get your score on the 8 Factors That Drive Your Company’s Value.   For Additional FREE Resources for accounting professionals check out this collection HERE!   Be sure to join us for GrowCon, the LIVE event for accounting professionals to work ON their business. This is a conference you don’t want to miss.   Remember this, Accounting Success IS Universal. Listen to our next episode and be sure to subscribe.   Also, let us know what you think of the podcast and please share any suggestions you may have.  We look forward to your input: Podcast Feedback   For more information on how you can apply these principles to start and build your accounting, bookkeeping & tax business please visit us at www.universalaccountingschool.com or call us at 8012653777  

Join us this Wednesday for a new episode where Roger sits down with Craig Primo.  

Join us as we revisit this conversation from 2020! As accounting services become more automated and commoditized there are things accounting firms can do to remain relevant and take care of their clients.  Listen to Roger Knecht, president of Universal Accounting Center and Ron Saharyan, Co-Founder of Profit First Professionals as they consider the challenge accounting professional face today.  Consider the solutions offered and see what you can do to offer more value to your customers as a trusted strategic advisor helping them make profit a priority. Why Should Accountants Offer This Service? Why they are in the best position to do this with their clients Why become more consultative in your services to offer more value to your clients How to stand out from other accounting firms See how you can offer a Cash Flow Management System (pay yourself first methodology) that is unique. Sponsors: Universal Accounting Center Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth.   Profit First Helping eradicate entrepreneurial poverty – giving accounting professionals the process to make profit intentional and deliberate. Offers: Get a FREE copy of the e-book “Red to Black”, the how to guide for accounting professionals to help business owners with the most pressing problem many face, cash flow. Get a FREE copy of the e-book “Profit First” to help your clients make profit a priority and help eradicate entrepreneurial poverty. As supplies last, get your copy of the book “Profit First”, email Ron directly at rons@profitfirstprofessionals.com (Be sure to listen to the podcast for details) Become a certified Profit First Professional, PFP Remember this, Accounting Success IS Universal. Listen to our next episode and be sure to subscribe. For more information on how you can apply these principles in your business please visit us at www.universalaccountingschool.com or call us at 8012653777  

In this episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm, host Roger Knecht is joined by Chantal Cornelius, founder of Apple Tree Marketing, to explore the critical role of emotional connections in client relationships within the accounting industry. Chantal emphasizes that the success of accounting firms hinges on building trust and personal connections with clients, which goes beyond the typical scope of social media content. Key Discussion Points Emotional Decision-Making: 95% of buying decisions are emotionally driven, Chantal says. She introduces strategies to create empathy-driven relationships with clients, stressing that accounting services, unlike products, require deep trust in accuracy and strategic advice. Challenges of Commoditization: The episode discusses the risk of commoditizing accounting services and the importance of differentiating through trust and personal connections. Chantal’s Stand Out Strategies for Differentiating Accounting Firms: Connection: Engage clients through networking and sharing valuable resources. Contribution: Involve clients in charitable initiatives to build a sense of community and shared values. Growth: Offer actionable advice that supports clients’ business expansion. Significance: Ensure clients feel valued and heard, reinforcing their importance to the firm. Practical Tips and Insights Building Trust: Personal touches like remembering client birthdays and providing coaching services to address personal challenges. Marketing Tactics: While skeptical of social media’s effectiveness in fostering deep relationships, Chantal advocates for referrals, networking, and content marketing, emphasizing the need for clear strategies before implementing tactics. Networking Events: Attend events aligned with the ideal client profile and have a clear purpose for all business activities, including podcasting. Additional Content Personal Interests: Chantal shares her passion for skiing and her journey of recovering from back surgery, adding a personal touch to the episode. Sales Basics: Understanding the fundamentals of sales and fostering deeper relationships through face-to-face interactions is highlighted. Thank you for listening to this episode of Building a Premier Accounting Firm. BRAP is a must listen for bookkeeping, accounting, and tax business owners aiming to enhance their client relationships and differentiate their services in a competitive market. Call 435-344-2060 for more information.   Sponsors: Universal Accounting Center Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth.   Offers: Take the Test and get free advice at https://appletreeuk.com/take-the-test/   Get a FREE copy of these books all accounting professionals should use to work on their business and become profitable.  These are a must-have addition to every accountant’s library to provide quality CFO & Advisory services as a Profit & Growth Expert today: “Red to BLACK in 30 days – A small business accountant’s guide to QUICK turnarounds” – This is a how-to guide on how to turn around a struggling business into a more sustainable model. Each chapter focuses on a crucial aspect of the turnaround process - from cash flow management to strategies for improving revenue. This book will teach you everything you need to become a turnaround expert for small businesses. “in the BLACK, nine principles to make your business profitable” – Nine Principles to Make Your Business Profitable – Discover what you need to know to run the premier accounting firm and get paid what you are worth in this book, by the same author as Red to Black – CPA Allen B. Bostrom. Bostrom teaches the three major functions of business (marketing, production and accounting) as well as strategies for maximizing profitability for your clients by creating actionable plans to implement the nine principles. “Your Strategic Accountant” - Understand the 3 Core Accounting Services you should offer as you run your business. Help your clients understand which numbers they need to know to make more informed business decisions. “Your Profit & Growth Expert” - Your business is an asset. You should know its value and understand how to maximize it. Beginning with the end in mind helps you work ON your business to build a company you can leave so that it can continue to exist in your absence or build wealth as you retire and enjoy the time, freedom, and life you want and deserve. Learn what it is you can do to become an author, leveraging your expertise to market your services effectively and get the clients you deserve.  This is a webinar you don’t want to miss.  Learn from Mike Capuzzi what a Shook is and how you can use it to position yourself as the Premier Accounting Firm in your area.  This is a must-see presentation so get ready to take some great notes.   In addition to becoming an author, see what you can do to follow the Turnkey Business plan for accounting professionals.  After more than 40 years we’ve identified the best practices of successful accountants and this is a presentation we are happy to share.  Check it out and see what you can do to be in business for yourself but not by yourself with Universal Accounting Center.   It’s here you can become a:   Professional Bookkeeper, PB Professional Tax Preparer, PTP Profit & Growth Expert, PGE   Next, join a group of like-minded professionals within the accounting community.  Stay up-to-date on current topics and trends and see what you can do to also give back, participating in relevant conversations as they relate to offering quality accounting services and building your bookkeeping, accounting & tax business.   The Accounting & Bookkeeping Tips Facebook Group The Universal Accounting Fanpage Topical Newsletters: Universal Accounting Success The Universal Newsletter   Lastly, get your Business Score to see what you can do to work ON your business and have the Premier Accounting Firm. Join over 70,000 business owners and get your score on the 8 Factors That Drive Your Company’s Value.   For Additional FREE Resources for accounting professionals check out this collection HERE!   Be sure to join us for GrowCon, the LIVE event for accounting professionals to work ON their business. This is a conference you don’t want to miss.   Remember this, Accounting Success IS Universal. Listen to our next episode and be sure to subscribe.   Also, let us know what you think of the podcast and please share any suggestions you may have.  We look forward to your input: Podcast Feedback   For more information on how you can apply these principles to start and build your accounting, bookkeeping & tax business please visit us at www.universalaccountingschool.com or call us at 8012653777  

Join us this Wednesday for a new episode where Roger discusses building relationships with Chantal Cornelius