Am I ready or do I need experience?
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I just finished my bachelors in accounting this summer and am currently working on my pro advisor certification. I'm in the process of starting my business, but I'm scared that I might be moving too fast. I have never had an actual job in bookkeeping.
The owner of the hair salon that I go to is behind on his books & needs help since he didn't do them right last year and ended up paying more in taxes. I offered my services to him only because I didn't want to wait too long & risk him going elsewhere. I have an appointment with him this Friday to discuss everything.
I still want to get my cpb and become an enrolled agent in the near future. Am I just getting cold feet or should I wait to get more experience under my belt before starting my own business? Thank you!
Answer
If you're unsure, then you should find another accountant, Certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor or someone to work with while you gain experience. You could either work for them or have an arrangement for them to review your work. You do not want to take on clients/work that you aren't ready for--if you mess it up you not only hurt the client, but you can also hurt your reputation (which is very important to the success of your business)!
Michelle L. Long, CPA, MBA
Author of: Successful QuickBooks Consulting
Advanced Certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor
National Trainer for Intuit Accountant Trainer/Writer Network
MLongConsulting.com
Author of the book "Successful QuickBooks Consulting"
http://www.LongforSuccess.com
Linkedin Group: http://bit.ly/9e3RB
Facebook Page: http://bit.ly/1q72VW
Answer
Michelle, thank you very much for your advise. After reading your reply I actually went ahead & called a pro advisor in my area and asked her if she could check my work & if I could work with her to get more experience. She agreed and I will meet with her next week. She actually hires independent contractors to do work for her. She is the founder of CPA moms. I'm sure I can learn a lot from her & get the confidence I need. I don't want to quit before I get in the game! LOL
Answer
Awesome! I'm so glad you found another ProAdvisor to work with and get more experience--that is great! Thanks for letting me know.
Michelle L. Long, CPA, MBA
Author of: Successful QuickBooks Consulting
National Trainer for Intuit Accountant Trainer/Writer Network
MLongConsulting.com
Author of the book "Successful QuickBooks Consulting"
http://www.LongforSuccess.com
Linkedin Group: http://bit.ly/9e3RB
Facebook Page: http://bit.ly/1q72VW
