Fulfill client needs to drive their business - and yours

So, let's meet up the same time next year?" This question is all too common for many accountants who only hear from their small business clients once a year.

But the role of an accountant has the potential to reach far beyond just tax preparation. In fact, according to the most recent Sage Accountancy Index, 62 per cent of Canadian accountants say they are expanding their range of expertise into new disciplines - business mentoring, start-up advice and payroll services - to fulfil more of their clients' needs by providing holistic offerings.

Businesses in Canada, particularly small and medium-sized, are always seeking ways to grow profits through increased revenue, expense savings, or through the adoption of technology and productivity tools. As these organizations grow, they'll be looking to expand their product or service offerings or to overhaul marketing initiatives. While they may have a vision, they could be lacking the right information to develop a thoughtful strategy that will help them reach their goals.

What if instead of planning specific tactics for growth, these businesses could partner with an advisor that consistently helps them make better, quicker business decisions? What if that advisor is someone they are already working with, such as their accountant?

Accountants have become strategic advisors to business owners - assessing risks and providing invaluable...