Thank you for joining us for the latest episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm. In this episode host Roger Knecht dives deep into the essential topic of credibility with esteemed guest Mitchell Levy, a renowned advocate of professionalism and credibility expert. With over twenty years of experience supporting accounting professionals, Roger sets the stage for a compelling discussion that underscores the significance of being trusted, known, and liked in the business world with Mitchell’s advice leading the way. Episode Highlights: Mitchell’s Journey: A seasoned advocate of professionalism, Mitchell brings a wealth of knowledge on building and maintaining credibility in the business world. Known for his focus on the importance of being trusted, known, and liked. Defining Credibility: Mitchell breaks down the essence of credibility, emphasizing its multifaceted nature. Trust is highlighted as the foundational element of credibility, crucial from the first interaction with a firm or its employees. Credibility as a Journey: Unlike common misconceptions, Mitchell stresses that credibility is not a one-time achievement but an ongoing process. He criticizes the belief that credibility can be instantly gained through isolated efforts such as media mentions or financial investments. Key Takeaways: The importance of continuous effort in building and maintaining trust and credibility. Practical insights into how accounting firms can cultivate a trustworthy and reputable image. Strategies to ensure that credibility is woven into the fabric of the firm’s operations and client interactions. Conclusion: Roger and Mitchell wrap up the episode with actionable advice for accounting professionals striving to enhance their credibility. Encouragement to view credibility as a long-term investment that requires dedication and consistency. Tune in to this episode for a deep dive into the pivotal role of credibility in building a premier accounting firm, with expert guidance from Mitchell Levy. Call 435-344-2060 for more information about how you can start or grow your own accounting firm.   Sponsors: Universal Accounting Center Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth.   Offers: Connect with Vamsi: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vamsipolimetla/   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 credibility with Mitchell Levy.  

Join us as we revisit this conversation from 2020!   As an accounting community we each face similar challenges as professionals starting and building and accounting business.  Listen to Veronica as she shares her story and offers advice.  As a successful Certified Public Accountant, CPA, she has much to share. Listen as we discuss the back office realities of an accounting business and how the Virtual Bookkeeper’s Roadmap was designed to help fast track everyone’s success to running the premier accounting firm.   Your Host: Roger Knecht, president of Universal Accounting Center Our Guest: Veronica Wasek, CPA and CEO/Founder of VM Wasek Veronica is busy working with clients, running her business and now giving back to the accounting community in a variety of platforms: •5 Minute Bookkeeping blog / YouTube channel •5MB Academy for virtual bookkeepers and accountants •5 Minute Bookkeeping with QuickBooks Online FB Group 5 Minute Bookkeeping.com FB Group   Veronica is also a Top 10 ProAdvisor - 2018, Member of Intuit’s Trainer Writer Network, Top Accounting Influencer, CPA, Certified Advanced QBO and QBD ProAdvisor.    Sponsors: Universal Accounting Center Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth.   The Virtual Bookkeeper The workflow every accounting firm (from sole-preneur to multi-staffed firm) should use to establish proven standards of operating procedures. This is the turnkey practice management process to insure efficiency and profitability.   Offers: As discussed in the podcast we have some special offers that you’ll want to take advantage of now. First, consider becoming a certified Profit & Growth Expert to help your clients with the most common issue facing small business, cash flow management.  Learn to market, sell and offer this service with confidence and competence to get paid what your worth. Secondly, run your business efficiently applying the proven workflows found in the Virtual Bookkeeper’s Roadmap and benefit from the technologies available today to help you and your clients stay on the cutting edge of what really works.  Doing so you’ll have the timely information to make intelligent business decisions using the information you produce. Thirdly, get your copy of the book written to help you work ON your business: “in the BLACK, nine principles to make your business profitable.”  This classic book has the timeless information you need to have the premier accounting business is your area.  Get your copy NOW! Remember this, if it’s about accounting its 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 insightful episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm, host Roger Knecht sits down with acclaimed ghostwriter Michael Levin to explore the transformative power of writing in establishing thought leadership and driving business success. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, professional, or simply someone with a story to tell, this conversation is packed with valuable insights on how to leverage writing to differentiate yourself and elevate your career. Key Highlights: Introduction to Thought Leadership: Michael explains the power of writing a book to establish oneself as a thought leader in any industry. Differentiating from competitors by showcasing unique insights and expertise. Role of Ghostwriters: Ghostwriters assist individuals who have valuable ideas but lack writing confidence. Michael recounts his transition from law to ghostwriting, underscoring the entrepreneurial potential and skill development in the field. Importance of Storytelling: Making complex topics relatable through storytelling. Addressing readers’ concerns to create impactful and engaging content. Benefits for Professionals: Professionals, especially in competitive fields like accounting, can use books to stand out, justify higher fees, and avoid commoditization. Books help in enhancing visibility and client referrals, as illustrated by the example of a co-author’s increased client acquisition. Critique of Traditional Publishing: Traditional publishing often favors established figures. Independent publishing offers greater control and profit margins. Platforms like Amazon are recommended for their credibility and ease of distribution. Efficient Material Gathering: Using interviews to collect material. Emphasis on concise and impactful content that meets readers’ needs. Strategies like transcribing interviews into chapters streamline the writing process. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Recognizing and embracing one’s unique message. Encouraging professionals to realize the authority they already possess. Business Skills and Mentorship: The significance of developing business skills. Mentorship and the importance of outlining processes for clients. Levin’s journey from lawyer to author highlights the clarity and growth gained through writing. Conclusion: Writing a book is a powerful tool for professionals to establish thought leadership, enhance business success, and differentiate themselves in their field. Through insightful discussion and practical advice, Michael Levin provides a roadmap for leveraging writing to achieve greater visibility and client engagement.   Sponsors: Universal Accounting Center Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth.   Offers: Check out Michael’s resources AdvisorGhost.com and BestEarningAuthor.com.    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.   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. 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 how books build your business with Michael Levin  

Join us as we revisit this conversation from 2020!   Perhaps you’ve done the accounting for years and see areas within the business that the client could improve but don’t know how to properly advise them.  Maybe you’ve heard you need to offer more value-added services beyond the accounting you offer, but how? John shares his experience owning and selling businesses and the lessons learn to help us understand the 8 things that determine the value of a business and how, as accounting professionals, we can confidently and competently offer high value services and get paid what we are worth as certified Value Builder providers. (VB) It’s time to proactively engage with our accounting clients and help them build their businesses and effectively increase what they are worth.   Your Host: Roger Knecht, president of Universal Accounting Center Our Guest: John Warrillow has been helping business advisors understand and market to the Small-Medium Business (SMB) segment for more than two decades.  As the founder of The Value Builder System™, his mission has been to level the playing field for business owners as they approach their exit – while helping business advisors start more strategic, meaningful conversations with them. John’s best-selling book, Built to Sell: Creating a Business That Can Thrive Without You, was recognized by both Fortune and Inc. Magazine as one of the best business books of 2011 and has been translated into four languages. In 2015, John wrote another best-selling book: The Automatic Customer: Creating A Subscription Business In Any Industry. John has keynoted Fortune Magazine’s Growth Summit, Entrepreneur’s Organization New York City and Toronto Chapters, and the Inc. 5000 conference. John is also the host of Built to Sell Radio, ranked by Forbes Magazine as one of the world’s 10 best podcasts for business owners. He has been recognized by B2B Marketing as one of the top 10 business-to-business marketers in the United States. Prior to founding The Value Builder System™, John started and exited four companies, including a quantitative market research business that was acquired by The Corporate Executive Board (NYSE: CEB) in 2008.   Sponsors: Universal Accounting Center Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth.   The Value Builder System™ Value Builder is a statistically proven methodology that helps increase the value of businesses. Advisors leverage the system to help business owners prepare for an eventual exit and ensure they experience a lucrative exit. Business owners complete a Value Builder Questionnaire with the support of business advisors who champion the system as Certified Value Builders™ across the globe. After analyzing over 50,000 businesses, the average Value Builder Score is 59 out of a possible 100. Owners are statistically proven to improve company value through the system and receive offers of 7.1 times pre-tax profit on average.   Offers: As the owner of an accounting business it’s time you pause and consider the same questions we ask our clients when was the last time your worked ON your business?  Take a moment and this is your opportunity to assess your company while also seeing what you in turn could offer your clients as a their accountant, their business coach, their certified Value Builder provider: Get your Free Business Score and see how your business ranks in the 8 drivers that determine the value of your business (15 minute questionnaire) Which are you, why are you in business, is it to make a difference and become Famous or Rich? Get a FREE copy of this short book to answer the question and help you better relate to each of your clients. Would you like to know if you are ready mentally, personally to sell your business, possibly retire or just move on to your next chapter in life? This is PreScore, the quick assessment and report to help business owners understand life after selling the business.  Get your free report and see what you learn about this phase of life.   Remember this, Business 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 insightful episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm, leadership development expert Jeremy Clopton of the Emerging Leaders Academy, sits down with host Roger Knecht to recount his transformative journey within the accounting profession, emphasizing the need for a paradigm shift towards entrepreneurship, innovation, and client-centric approaches in accounting firms. Jeremy’s Journey: Jeremey discusses how growing up in a family of CPAs led him to an interest in forensic accounting. He recounts starting his career in forensic accounting and data analytics at a national firm. His decision to pivot to teaching, speaking, and eventually joining Upstream Academy is outlined. Shift in Accounting Paradigms: Roger and Jeremy discuss the importance of moving away from traditional metrics like billable hours. They emphasize the value of knowledge, expertise, and client outcomes. Roger discusses ways to measure productivity through deliverables and client satisfaction. Innovative Billing Practices: Roger and Jeremy make a proposal for flat-rate billing based on average client fees. Jeremey emphasizes the need to enhance efficiency and productivity through streamlined processes and technology. Client Relationships: Roger highlights the power of viewing tasks such as tax returns and bookkeeping as opportunities for meaningful client interactions. Jeremy shows how clients prefer growth-facilitating partnerships, and are often willing to pay higher fees for such support. Business Mindset in Accounting: They explain how to adopt a business mindset, focusing on marketing, accounting, and production. Jermey emphasizes the importance of effective marketing and sales strategies for client acquisition. Accountrepreneurs: The hosts encourage accountants to apply business principles within their firms. Roger notes the need for external help for small firms and solo practitioners for long-term success. Cultural Shift in Firms: Prioritizing client and employee satisfaction over long hours. Effective workload management to prevent burnout and maintain client relationships. Measuring productivity by completed work rather than hours worked. Flexibility in deadlines to enhance firm culture and employee well-being. Retaining Quality Employees: Fostering a supportive culture to attract and retain talent. Emphasizing metrics reflecting client deliverables and deadlines. Highlighting culture, people, clients, and growth as key areas for improvement. Conclusion: Jeremy Clopton’s insights underscore the necessity for accounting firms to embrace entrepreneurship and innovation, focusing on client satisfaction, efficient processes, and a supportive culture to ensure long-term success and growth in the profession. For more information on how you can start your journey to becoming an Accountrepreneur, call 435-344-2060.   Sponsors: Universal Accounting Center Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth.   Offers: They can find more information about our programs on our website: http://www.upstreamacademy.com Jeremy invites you to attend Upstream’s HeadWaters Leadership Conference July 11-12 in Chicago.  During this two-day event (widely regarded as one of the best accounting industry conferences available) experts from top firms in the US and Canada will help your firm understand and improve your process for making strategic transitions.   Transitions are vital for firm survival, but they also provide opportunities to change, improve and grow.  Let's move beyond simply weathering changes—mitigating damages, forcing compliance and fitting the new into the old mold—to strategically planning for transitions that energize your firm.   Register at https://www.upstreamacademy.com/headwaters/.   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 what it means to be an entreprenuer in accounting with Jeremy Clopton

Join us as we revisit this conversation from 2020!   Either as a degreed accountant or business owner we each would benefit stopping for a moment to consider the big picture of business as it appears in the accounting model. Listen as Mark shares his storying of stumbling into the accounting profession, graduating and working as an accountant yet still struggling to understand the big picture and then BAAM, it changed. Color Accounting is a unique yet simple way to learn and explain the accounting experience.  For accounting professionals it’s a refreshing perspective on something they do daily.  More importantly, for the non-accountant it’s a fun interactive experience to understand the applications of transactions within business. Hear how Color Accounting came about and how it applies to you and the relationship you have with your business clients.  Let Color Accounting help you communicate the accounting information to your clients in a way they can then use the reports you provide it to make more informed business decisions.   Your Host: Roger Knecht, president of Universal Accounting Center Our Guest: Mark Robilliard, FCA Mark Robilliard is Director of Education & Operations and Co-founder of Color Accounting International, an education and publishing firm headquartered in Washington DC. He’s an Aussie who lives in the US and travels widely, leading seminars in financial statement and business acumen skills, for lawyers, bankers and businesspeople. Some of his teaching for senior execs is done in secret. Quick facts: Fellow of Chartered Accountants Australia New Zealand. Adjunct faculty at American University in Washington DC. Was National Training Manager for KPMG Australia. Managed the Human Resources Department for the largest insurer in Australia. Taught at a variety of secondary, tertiary and post-grad institutions in the US and Australia. Co-authored a number of books: Accounting Comes Alive: The Color Accounting Parable Color Accounting: The New Graphical System That Makes Learning Accounting Easy And Quick. Third book due out soon.   He believes in working towards a financially conscious world. Color Accounting International   What they do: Finance and business acumen workshops for non-financial people using a breakthrough graphical system. The Mission: People are empowered to make wise decisions, collaborate effectively and amplify value – a financially conscious world.   Sponsors: Universal Accounting Center Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth.   Color Accounting International is a publishing company, a licensing company and education provider.  They've developed and distribute the Color Accounting® learning system. They work with a network of accredited Partners and different languages around the world. They are a social enterprise, with a dual social-impact and commercial motive.  They advocate accounting as a fundamental form of literacy, like Reading, Writing and Arithmetic. Accounting literacy has the power to improve lives, corporations, not-for-profit organizations and governments. The Color Accounting Network includes: Sales Partners, who provide educational workshops for their corporate clients Corporate Educators, who are accredited by us to facilitate events run for corporate clients Academic Educators, who teach accounting in educational environments such as schools and universities.   Offers: Enroll today in Color Accounting, take the course for yourself and then introduce your clients to it.  See how this can improve your working relationship, client communication and then generate referral for you.   Get the books mentioned in this episode: “Color Accounting” and “Color Comes Alive”   Become for your clients their profit and growth expert.  Read “Red to BLACK in 30 days – A small business accountant’s guide to QUICK turnarounds.”  This is a how-to-guide for accounting professionals to help you confidently address the challenge that most business face, cash flow.  This is a must read!  Get your FREE copy of the e-book now!   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 compelling episode of Building the Premier Accounting Firm, host Roger Knecht engages with Jeff Bartsch, a communication strategist who transitioned from the entertainment industry to the world of accounting. Together, they explore the transformative power of storytelling in enhancing client relationships and marketing strategies for accountants. Main Themes: The Power of Storytelling in Accounting: Jeff underscores the vital role of storytelling in connecting with clients and conveying complex financial concepts in an engaging and understandable manner. He draws intriguing parallels between Hollywood’s narrative techniques and business communication, advocating for strategic storytelling to make financial data more relatable and actionable. Strategic vs. Tactical Storytelling: Jeff distinguishes between tactical stories (short, situational anecdotes) and strategic storytelling (comprehensive narratives that depict transformation and overcoming obstacles). He emphasizes the importance of positioning clients as heroes in their own business stories, with accountants acting as guiding mentors. Effective Client Communication: Jeff and Roger highlight insightful questioning as a key method for uncovering clients’ true desires and challenges, enabling accountants to align their services with clients’ goals effectively. Real-world examples illustrate the profound impact of tailored communication, such as a virtual CFO helping a CEO achieve a balance between company value and employee compensation. Contextualizing Financial Data: The episode stresses the necessity of providing context to financial numbers to make them meaningful and relevant to clients. Accountants are encouraged to facilitate informed decision-making by guiding clients through their motivations and goals, ultimately contributing to business growth. Niche Market Focus: Roger recommends specialization for virtual CFOs and accountants to tailor communication and attract the right clients effectively. The challenges and successes of Summit Virtual CFO in focusing on digital agencies and other industries are discussed, highlighting the importance of expertise and strategic messaging. Additional Highlights: Complimentary Coaching: Jeff Bartsch offers a free coaching opportunity for established accountants to refine their storytelling and communication strategies. GrowCon Conference: Mention of GrowCon, an annual event for networking and professional development in the accounting industry, held by Universal Accounting Center. Universal Accounting Center: Encouragement to engage with the resources and training provided by Universal Accounting Center to enhance accounting practices. Conclusion: This episode is a must-listen for accountants looking to strengthen their client relationships and marketing strategies through the art of storytelling. By viewing clients as heroes and themselves as mentors, accountants can make financial information more engaging and actionable, leading to significant business growth and client satisfaction. If you’re ready to take your business to new heights with Universal Accounting Center’s advanced coaching, or if you’d like to build your own thriving accounting firm, call 435-344-2060. Sponsors: Universal Accounting Center Helping accounting professionals confidently and competently offer quality accounting services to get paid what they are worth.   Offers: One URL for listeners of this podcast: link to my podcast that explains the concepts more. Plus instructions for how to apply for a complimentary coaching session as a gift for listeners of this podcast: https://www.storygreenlight.com/premier/ Also visit https://www.storygreenlight.com/universal for more information and to apply these principles in the business world. Reach out to Jeff and mention this podcast episode: hello@storygreenlight.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 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