As a CPA for over 30 years it always interests me why new clients come to see me. I am curious to know why they feel the need to switch accountants. Most of the time new clients come to me because they are dissatisfied with the service and response they are receiving from their present accountant.
New clients often complain that they are unhappy with the time it takes to get a call back or to talk with someone who knows what they are talking about or who know their situation.
Dealing with taxes is a complicated and frustrating subject and accountants must realize that when a client calls it’s not to talk about the weather. Many times clients call because they just got a notice from the IRS, state or city. Notices can be intimidating and accountants need to understand that they need to talk to the client about the issues as soon as possible. A delay in this area can make the difference in paying large penalties or having assets levied or a lien placed on assets.
Tax questions are another area where clients need a quick response. Getting a knowledgeable accountant to promptly answer a question means in some cases a huge tax savings or not paying a penalty. Moreover it allows the client to sleep at night.
I have learned being available is one of the most important things I can do and if other accountants followed that rule they would save their clients’ money and would not lose them as clients.