Why Is It Hard to Find a Good Tax Pro?

In a recent episode of the "Keep What You Earn" podcast, Shannon discussed the challenges entrepreneurs face in finding the right tax professional and the key strategies to bridge the communication gap. As the tax season approaches, many entrepreneurs and business owners are seeking guidance on how to navigate the complex landscape of tax and accounting services. Shannon's insights shed light on the common pitfalls and provide actionable tips to ensure a fruitful partnership with a tax professional.

Shannon begins by delving into the prevalent difficulty in finding a tax professional who aligns with one's specific needs and expectations. Often, individuals gravitate towards convenience, relying on family accountants or local referrals without thoroughly assessing if the professional fits their unique business requirements. Shannon emphasizes the importance of intentional vetting and communication when seeking a tax professional. She highlights the need for business owners to define their expectations clearly, focusing on aspects such as communication frequency, availability, and the range of services required.

Moreover, Shannon stresses the crucial role of effective communication in the client-accountant relationship. She emphasizes that while tax professionals are proficient in their domain, the ability to convey complex financial concepts in an approachable manner is often undervalued. Shannon recognizes that the realm of accounting and tax can be riddled with technical jargon, making it daunting for clients. As a remedy, she advocates for seeking professionals who can explain financial matters in an accessible manner, akin to teaching complex concepts to a five-year-old.

Shannon's insights also shed light on the misconceptions and misalignments that often lead to dissatisfaction with tax professionals. She urges business owners to clearly articulate their needs and concerns during the initial engagement with a tax professional. This includes outlining the desired level of support, including tax planning, bookkeeping, and regular communication preferences. By setting clear expectations from the outset, entrepreneurs can avoid the mismatch between their needs and the services provided by the tax professional.

Most notably, Shannon’s guidance on the importance of obtaining a deep understanding of the services being offered is crucial. She advises business owners to proactively discuss the range of services with tax professionals, ensuring that there is a mutual agreement on the scope of support. Shannon’s emphasis on aligning the client's expectations with the services offered is a pivotal strategy in avoiding potential miscommunications and dissatisfaction in the future.

To further aid entrepreneurs in their quest for the right tax professional, Shannon introduces the Money Pro Matchmaker guide. This comprehensive resource equips business owners with a structured approach to interviewing and evaluating tax professionals. By using the guide, entrepreneurs can ask pertinent questions and gauge the compatibility of a tax professional with their unique business needs. This resource serves as an invaluable tool in empowering entrepreneurs to make informed decisions when selecting a tax professional.

In conclusion, Shannon Weinstein's insights provide a roadmap for entrepreneurs to navigate the intricate process of finding the right tax professional. By prioritizing clear communication, setting precise expectations, and leveraging resources such as the Money Pro Matchmaker guide, business owners can forge fruitful partnerships with tax professionals. This proactive approach not only ensures a harmonious relationship but also empowers entrepreneurs to gain the maximum value from tax and accounting services.

Ultimately, the podcast episode serves as a guiding light for entrepreneurs, shedding light on the nuanced factors that contribute to a successful client-accountant relationship. Through Shannon's expertise, entrepreneurs are poised to embark on their quest to find the perfect tax professional, armed with the knowledge and strategies needed to bridge the communication gap and secure a prosperous partnership.

What you'll hear in this episode:

05:49 Customers want proactive updates for peace of mind.
08:56 Developing sales skills and relationships with clients.
12:36 Clarify services and manage client expectations effectively.
16:06 Business jargon isn't common sense for everyone.

If you like this episode, check out:

Why Raising Capital May Not Be The Answer

Asset vs. Expense: What's The Difference?

Don't Leave These Terms Out of Your Contracts

Want to learn more so you can earn more?

Download the Money Pro Matchmaker tool here

Visit keepwhatyouearn.com to dive deeper on our episodes

Visit keepwhatyouearncfo.com to work with Shannon and her team

Watch this episode and more here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMlIuZsrllp1Uc_MlhriLvQ

Connect with Shannon on IG: https://www.instagram.com/shannonkweinstein/

The information contained in this podcast is intended for educational purposes only and is not individual tax advice. Please consult a qualified professional before implementing anything you learn.