Posts by Sarah Dobek
Pricing for Your Perfect Client
How Accounting Firms Can Use Pricing Strategy to Drive Growth
By: Sarah Johnson Dobek Key Points Pricing is no longer just billing—it is a strategic lever for growth, positioning, and trust. Technology, outsourcing, and client expectations are breaking the link between hours and value. Standardization and clear ownership of pricing drive scalability, stronger margins, and alignment with firm strategy. Why Is Pricing Strategy Important…
Read MoreThe Fundamentals of Market Research and Why It Matters for Accounting Firms
Written by: Sarah Johnson Dobek Key Points Market research helps firms make confident, evidence-based decisions about clients, competitors, and market opportunities. Combining different types of research—primary, secondary, qualitative, and quantitative—provides a complete view of the market. When marketers lead the research process, insights translate directly into strategies that strengthen growth and differentiation. What Is Market…
Read MoreHow Accounting Firms Can Differentiate Their Brand in a Competitive Market
Written by: Sarah Johnson Dobek Key Points Differentiation in accounting is achieved through consistent positioning, communication, and delivery—not design or slogans. True differentiation extends beyond marketing; it must be reflected in behavior, communication, and client experience at every level. Firms that treat differentiation as a firmwide discipline build stronger brands, attract better-fit clients, and sustain long-term…
Read MoreFacing the Future: Our Generational Take on AI-Generated Headshots
Key Points AI-generated headshots offer varying levels of realism, customization, and speed depending on the platform. Generational perspectives shape expectations for workflow, pricing transparency, and professional authenticity. Choosing the right AI headshot tool depends on balancing realism, usability, and overall value for your needs. As AI-generated headshots surge in popularity for professional and personal…
Read MoreThe Strategic Rise of the Chief Growth Officer in Accounting Firms
Written by: Sarah Johnson Dobek Key Points A Chief Growth Officer (CGO) function aligns strategy, marketing, sales, and client experience to drive measurable, sustainable firm growth. Mid-sized firms benefit by assigning growth ownership—even without the CGO title—through clear roles, shared KPIs, and cross-functional alignment. CGOs focus on the full client journey, ensuring that onboarding, service…
Read MoreGovernance Series: The Rise of Non-CPA Leaders in Public Accounting
The ROI of a Strategic Growth Plan
Written by: Sarah Johnson Dobek Key Points A strategic growth plan builds long-term value by aligning teams, strengthening leadership, and enhancing client retention—not just increasing revenue. Consistent execution, clear ownership, and cross-functional collaboration are the key drivers of sustainable growth. Reviewing growth strategies regularly ensures firms stay agile, focused, and ready to adapt to changing…
Read MoreUnderstanding What Separates a Niche from a Practice Group
Written by: Sarah Johnson Dobek Key Points A niche attracts attention, but building a structured practice group with defined leadership and workflows enables sustainable, scalable growth. Successful practice groups require clarity in positioning, consistent processes, and tools that align people, technology, and strategy. Evolving from niche marketing to a mature practice group improves service delivery,…
Read MoreWhat It Takes to Grow: Building Discipline into Your Firm’s Strategy
By: Sarah Johnson Dobek Key Points Sustainable growth in accounting firms depends on discipline, consistency, and structured routines, not just bold ideas. Building growth into weekly habits and fostering firmwide accountability creates momentum and cultural alignment. Firms that approach growth as a core business function achieve long-term success and adaptability in a changing market. …
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