Those of us who have a consulting practice and have decided to go it alone, rather than be part of a bigger organization, just do it all. Beside the paying work, that means the administration and business development. For those who have reserved personalities, like us accountants, that is the biggest challenge. How do we generate our future work while doing the current work and everything else a successful practice requires?
I think the first answer is that we work a lot more hours than can be charged out. That is true of almost everyone in professional services of any kind, but is especially true of sold practitioners. I’m not complaining, mind you, I love working for myself and having no employees. But business development doesn’t come naturally to us accountants.
Still, to be successful, one must do what must be done. I’ve learned to develop business and actually enjoy the marketing activities. Yes, I’m a CFO that actually likes people.
I’ve found that the most successful marketing is via referrals from other trusted advisers. Those advisers much have a similar target client profile to mine in order for us to be effective referral partners. But nobody knows it all and it is wonderful to have resources I can refer clients to, when appropriate and where I can be referred in, when appropriate.
Once one is well known in the business community, how does one stay “top-of-mind” with hundreds of others? I think the networking and business events never end, but that still doesn’t keep you top-of-mind with all the people you know. One can’t drink enough coffee to do it.
This blog is one way I attempt to “touch” business associates monthly and to stay top-of-mind. It you’re gotten this far, thank you.
But I decided to do something really different this year in terms of a marketing effort. I commissioned a custom comic book, with original art, in full color, featuring The Amazing Adventures of Super CFO. All modesty aside, Super CFO is, of course, me.
Most of you have never seen me in blue tights, with a red cape and a golden hummingbird (my logo) emblazoned on my chest. Fewer still have seen me flying over the Space Needle. But, well, see below. Those of you who would like your own copy of The Amazing Adventures of Super CFO, please just hit reply and give me your mailing address. It will come to you in a gold mylar envelop, which should stand out from the rest of your holiday mail. Don’t be shy, this is why I had them made.
Happy Holidays, everyone!
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