think about how well you know their aspirations.
by gary bolinger
most cpas believe that they have the answers to clients’ most pressing questions, but often miss the mark on what clients really want.
more: how accountants are profiting in disruption | ask the right question(s) | seven elements of engagement for cpas | true advisory work isn’t just consulting
exclusively for pro members. log in here or 2022世界杯足球排名 today.
we think they want advice on how to:
- make more money
- establish a successful business
- gain more customers or clients
those issues factor into the equation of a successful business, but they’re not what clients really want from cpas.
what clients really want is a relationship.
according to the book, “delivering advisory services” by richard walters, nearly two-thirds of accountants’ clients said they want more strategic input. but in order for us to give them strategic input, we need to do three things:
- understand their aims and business
- reach out to them regularly
- commit for the long haul
one way to accomplish this is to provide a collaborative meeting that helps your clients take a look at what’s important to them and where they should prioritize their time, money and energy. offering this interactive meeting provides a low-risk commitment for your client and also helps you to understand their business aims.
this is a chance to establish a higher-level relationship with your client and to get a clear picture of their aspirations. when your client knows you care about their business, they are more likely to continue to come to you for help and direction. they seek you out as a trusted advisor. they value your guidance as an indispensable part of their business.
in order to commit to a long-term business relationship, you need to understand your client’s most important priorities and help them stay on track with their plan. your goal is to help them achieve what really matters to them. only then will they establish a long-term business advisory relationship with you.
in the process, it’s important to match your services with your clients’ needs and establish an agreement as to the next step. this will lead to more long-term clients whom you can truly help, leveraging your business expertise and experience in the fullest possible way.
if you do this, you will not only be more likely to get a positive response from your client, but establish the building blocks to become your client’s most trusted, yes most valued advisor.
in essence, that is what every client wants.