You’ve probably heard the old saying, “It’s not what you know. It’s who you know.” In the field of accounting and bookkeeping, your technical skills will undoubtedly help you grow and expand your client base and professional circle. Knowing how to network can put you a step ahead of your competition and open doors for your accounting career.
Networking has long been a valuable skill for accountants and bookkeepers who want to expand their customer base and reach, while keeping in tune with the industry’s evolving landscape. Many people overlook the value of networking in their own accounting offices. Co-workers come and go, and you never know where they’ll end up. They could put in a good word for you when you need it, introduce you to others to connect with, and let you know about business opportunities elsewhere. Networking is the key to your accountancy firm’s success. It helps you recruit talent and find customers and investors. Want to find out more? Keep reading to find out more on our top networking tips for accountants and bookkeepers below!
Be proactive
When it comes to networking, it is important for you to take a proactive approach and reach out to the people you would like to connect with. Before an event, aim to do some research to find out who the speakers are and who else will be attending. If you spot the name of someone who you would like to engage with, why not connect with them beforehand on LinkedIn? Try dropping them a quick line to reach out and introduce yourself. It’s also a good idea to keep an eye out for any online forums that people from your network are taking part in. Of course, if there are specific clients or contacts who you would like to reconnect with, you might prefer to take a more direct approach by calling them or sending them an email. There are a variety of ways that you can network and connect with others, so it’s worth exploring them all and seeing what works best for you.
Work with a specialised recruitment partner
Co-sourcing agencies, such as Totus, offer an array of services when you’re looking to fill a position in your accountancy firm. When it comes to networking, we at Totus can be your “eyes and ears” to the finance market, with abundant ideas on how to network with professionals in your area. Even if you’re not looking for a job position to be filled right now, feel free to get in touch today to hear more about the solutions we can provide in future. We provide free consultation calls, with no obligations.
Make the most of social media
When the word ‘networking’ is mentioned, the thought of attending events may come to mind first, however networking online can be just as valuable. Key social channels, including LinkedIn and Facebook are particularly popular among accountants and bookkeepers as a means of connecting, joining relevant conversations and demonstrating knowledge and expertise.
Attending a networking event? Make the most of all the opportunities available
From small, local meetups to larger conferences and exhibitions, networking events come in many shapes and sizes and can offer a wide range of potential benefits. Small events, particularly those with a focus on local business communities, can provide a fantastic opportunity to grow your prospective client base. Larger events, meanwhile, usually provide the chance to hear peers and industry experts speak and learn about relevant finance industry trends.
Before attending any event, take the time to identify all the opportunities it might present and then consider what action you may want to take in order to prepare. This could include signing up to attend a particular talk or take part in a discussion, or simply by making sure that you have your digital business card set up and ready. Make sure you follow up with an email afterward to those you have connected with at events.
Pitch perfect
Create a simple 60-second ‘elevator pitch’ which describes your accountancy firm clearly and concisely. What makes your accountancy firm different from all the rest? You’ll want to include your professional expertise and unique selling point. Be memorable and consider quoting testimonials from your satisfied customers.
Set yourself a target
A networking event is not a social gathering, you are there to achieve something. Set yourself an achievable target, such as the number of people you would like to connect with or be introduced to. If the number is 10 or 15 people, make sure you leave with 10 or 15 contact details.
Keep attending
In person networking can feel like a slow burn in comparison to fast pace digital connections. Without the immediate online social proof, building trust in person may take extra time to build. Attend networking events regularly, help others and plan an effective follow up strategy. Having separate catch ups with key individuals after the networking events will help to avoid getting into any lengthy conversations during the event that may prevent you from meeting other people.
Networking is about building up your network and business relationships, on and offline. You might not immediately get business from an event, however one individual you connect with may open several doors for you. Feel like you can’t find networking events that suite you? Why not create your own! This can be a great opportunity for clients and like-minded businesses to meet you, but also get to know your accounting firm and what it can offer. People will be inclined to attend on the basis of networking with others, but there will also be focus on your practice.
Measure
Are you achieving your business objectives? How much business is generated through this activity either directly or by introductions or referrals? Compare your findings against the cost of investments and be sure to factor in your own cost per hour. Networking is not the same for any two people, your experience and vary depending on the type of person you are and the services you’re offering. It’s all about finding the area that works best for you and utilising as much as possible.
