Business Development

How to Manage a Sales Pipeline for Accounting Firms

By Sarah Dobek / May 28, 2024 / Comments Off on How to Manage a Sales Pipeline for Accounting Firms

Key Points A well-managed sales pipeline gives accounting firms visibility into revenue opportunities, conversion rates, and progress toward financial goals. Consistent communication, clear accountability, and detailed tracking are essential for firmwide adoption and effective pipeline management. Integrating billing and sales data enables firms to forecast accurately, allocate resources strategically, and sustain long-term growth.   Managing…

Strategic Selling Within Your Client Base: The Key to Launching & Growing New Services in Accounting

By Sarah Dobek / April 10, 2024 / Comments Off on Strategic Selling Within Your Client Base: The Key to Launching & Growing New Services in Accounting

Key Points The best opportunities for new service growth often begin within your existing client base. Internal alignment and firmwide buy-in are critical to launching new offerings successfully. Starting internally allows firms to refine pricing, delivery, and positioning before expanding to new markets.   In accounting, like in any business, companies always want to offer…

Growth Hack: How to Better Qualify Prospects

By Sarah Dobek / March 12, 2024 / Comments Off on Growth Hack: How to Better Qualify Prospects

Key Points Focusing on quality over quantity in leads ensures sustainable, strategic firm growth. Asking thoughtful, probing questions helps identify whether a prospect aligns with your firm’s ideal client profile. Active listening uncovers not only what prospects say—but what they reveal through tone, intent, and transparency.   Accounting firms are realizing that the quality of…

Recognizing Traits of Effective Thought Leaders

By Sarah Dobek / January 31, 2024 / Comments Off on Recognizing Traits of Effective Thought Leaders

By: Sarah Dobek Key Points Thought leaders turn firm expertise into actionable insights that build credibility and trust. The best candidates think beyond the numbers, anticipate the future, and display authentic passion. Firms should identify and intentionally develop these individuals through training and visibility opportunities.   Developing and nurturing thought leaders within your accounting firm…

Becoming the First Call

By Sarah Dobek / March 31, 2023 / Comments Off on Becoming the First Call

Key Points Building a strong professional network helps accountants transition from service providers to trusted advisors. Being your client’s “first call” requires credibility, connection, and consistent follow-through. Nurturing relationships and connecting clients with the right resources enhances trust and long-term loyalty.   For years, accountants have been told to go out and build a network…

The 4 Traits of a Successful Business Developer

By Sarah Dobek / March 8, 2023 / Comments Off on The 4 Traits of a Successful Business Developer

Key Points The most effective business developers succeed through mindset, curiosity, service, and resilience—not just process or volume. Building trust through genuine curiosity and service-first interactions creates stronger client relationships and more referrals. Proactive, optimistic professionals with a growth mindset consistently turn opportunities into lasting business success.   When most people think of business development,…

This One Step Can Shift Your Entire Client Experience Program Into Gear

By Sarah Dobek / January 13, 2023 / Comments Off on This One Step Can Shift Your Entire Client Experience Program Into Gear

Key Points Aligning brand and client experience ensures your firm’s credibility, retention, and long-term growth. Listening programs and friction-point analysis help identify where client interactions can be improved for measurable impact. Establishing governance for client experience turns insights into consistent, firm-wide action.   What would you say if I asked you to describe your firm’s…