Next level or not? Help me decide.
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I started a small accounting business from home and am now planning to take it further by renting an office space because I think when you run your tax business from home there's a lot of miss opportunities (walk-in customers); you can get clients only by referrals and I only had a few for the past tax season and so far no client for the accounting part. Do you think it is a good idea?
I also setting up this website on my own and would like some feedback http://www.handsaccounting.com - When you get a chance, send me an update. What do you think? Does it flow? Is it easy to get around? What's missing? This is totally new to me and I could use some tips.
Thanks!
hppaul
Answer
Personally, I wouldn't recommend you take on the additional overhead of an office location. What would the annual cost be for rent, utilities, etc.? What is your average fee/tax client? How many clients to cover the addition overhead costs?
Whether it is tax or accounting clients, the majority of them are from referrals--not walk ins. Because we provide professional services you usually do not get clients that just walk in because they saw your office. We aren't a retail store or restaurant.
I'd encourage you to watch the FREE webinar on 'Effective Marketing' that I gave during Intuit's Virtual Conference. Go to http://accountant.intuit.com/training to go to the Vconference to access the recorded webinars. (Go to the Conference Hall to find it). Let me know if you can't find it.
It does take time and effort to build up your client base and LOTS of people operate from home offices successfully.
As for your website--I think you should add an 'about us' page with your picture and infor about your background, education and or experience. Also, client testimonials help a lot too.
PLEASE mark this answer as solved (click the button under the answer) or post additional questions. Thanks so much!!!
Michelle L. Long, CPA, MBA
Author of the book "Successful QuickBooks Consulting: The Comprehensive Guide to Starting and Growing a QuickBooks Consulting Business"
National Trainer for Intuit Trainer/Writer Network
Advanced Certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor
Author of the book "Successful QuickBooks Consulting"
http://www.LongforSuccess.com
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Comment
I think taking on added expense would be a mistake, even if you have other income and a good size marketing budget.
I would suggest checking out the QB ProAdvisor program. You use QuickBooks already, so it makes sense to take advantage of all the help you could get here to develop your practice.
I know from experience that taking on too much is just not a good idea. It will cause too much pressure.