What happens if US CPAs ask clients the right questions?

With the pandemic retreating and the new normal setting in, accounting firms and finance companies  all over the world are facing new challenges in operations and goal setting. In the midst of these transitioning moments, US CPAs may find it difficult to become differentiators in the field and if they aspire to become influential US CPAs in the new normal, they need to ask their clients the right questions. And to help you focus on that area, we have come up with unique strategies and tips so that as US CPAs you can make an impact while advising and mentoring clients to meet desired organizational goals and enhance growth. 

Curiosity and Openness

 
Before meeting clients as global accounting professionals you need to create a habit of curiosity and openness and inform the clients that you wish to know deep information about the company and its functioning. Important and critical information might give you a wide understanding of the needs and goal projections and pitfalls of the company as well build strategic decisions to help leaders step into new horizons and optimize new markets.

Litany of complaints

As US CPAs you must be a good listener. Your clients may bring to table a litany of complaints and what works at this stage is an engaging conversation. Meaningful and strategic communication can play a great deal to understanding your client’s bottom line and macro needs and in the event will help you explore why things did not work and the reasons behind them. Your client would have in the past have walked in the wrong direction and in this case you need to take a deep dive into the past events, trust me all these will tee up for a great stroke ahead!

Congratulate

 
All the conversation as trusted accounting professionals you have with your clients may not be pale and gray, but sometimes colorful and celebrating. At this point, you need to recognize their achievements and ask about the efforts that they took in managing their success this far. If the success rate is convincing, then as tax and accounting professionals you may help your clients to narrow down the tax rate instead helping them weather off challenges like crisis or emergency on the road ahead.  

Refuse the Deal

There might be instances your client may get worried about your discussion as you may be a new auditor demanding critical information pertaining to the business performance and accounting strategies. If he refuses to share, then it may eclipse you from finding out the gray areas and how other competitors are trying to make a difference in the market. At this point you need to cut down assisting such clients who refuse to share flipside questions that will allow you to have the best takeaways.

Don’t Hesitate

 
Your methods and approach of digging deep into the problems and failures may cause discomfort to your client, but your hesitation will not lead you to solutions rather to serious problems. Spot the areas boldly where your clients are struggling and breathe in your expertise and strategic advice to convert challenges to opportunities.