In the photo, you’ll see an Australian Eastern Water Dragon
The males are pretty territorial, and we have a couple that roam around our garden. At this time of year (spring in the Southern Hemisphere), the males fight to determine who ‘rules’ the territory.
Our daughter, for reasons known only to herself, called this one John.
We have four chickens, and recently our neighbour acquired a Rottweiler, so my wife put up some wire fencing to separate the chickens from certain death. She carefully left plenty of space under the fence for the wildlife to get through.
This morning, John decided to ignore that space and try to squeeze through a hole in the fence that was not big enough for him and got stuck. We rescued him with bolt cutters and thankfully he’s fit, healthy and still very feisty.
Like many things I observe in life, it reminded me of accountants.
John could have taken the simple path but, for reasons known best to himself, he chose a complex alternative and got himself stuck.
Many accountants are extremely good at creating complexity, typically by talking in jargon or ‘tax speak’. Too often, accountants are excellent at sounding like an expert, but your client has no idea what you’re talking about!
Next time you’re talking with a client, check yourself.
Are you simplifying the complex so that you can relate to your client on their terms? The more you do that, the more likely the relationship will strengthen even further, and they will embrace your recommendations.
On the other hand, if you blind them with jargon and tax speak, expect polite nods and blank looks!
Taking Action:
If you're interested in more insights like these, consider signing up for our Renewsletter: https://www.renewgroup.com/newsletter. Alternatively, if you'd like to discuss your CPA firm's specific needs, feel free to schedule a call with us: https://www.renewgroup.com/contact.
About the Author:
Colin Dunn, a Chartered Accountant with extensive experience in the accounting industry, is passionate about helping accountants transform their firms and lives. With over 25 years dedicated to creating content for to help CPAs improve their profitability, Colin shares valuable insights into properly engaging with your client base. Colin believes that CPAs can create a better work-life balance by learning from past experiences and applying these insights to their firms, allowing them to spend more time with their families and pursuing hobbies and leisure interests.
About Renew Group:
Are you tired of being on the diet but not seeing results? Most consultants to the CPA Profession do lots of talking and deal in 'fluff'. But there's no accountability and no focus on RESULTS.
At Renew, we start with your numbers. Our firms complete a Pareto for Profit analysis EVERY YEAR, set new targets to improve their profitability and then 'weigh in' regularly. We give you a roadmap to transform the profitability of your accounting firm by accessing our content, collaborating with other firms on a similar path and being held accountable by our coaching team and your peers.
Get paid what you're worth, create a better life based on a scalable business model and eliminate tax season insanity once and for all!