Why Invoices Need to Include A Thank You

Why It’s Important to Add a Thank You Message to Your Invoice Template

As digital invoices continue to rise in popularity, various trends are beginning to emerge. One trend that has dominated the electronic invoicing world is incorporating a thank you message at the end of a bill. 

This is such a small adjustment to make to your invoice template. However, it can make a big difference when executed in the right way. In the field of accounting, modest gestures of appreciation such as this are uncommon, which you and your company can use as a powerful advantage over competitors. 

As an accountant, you might not think that personalization is a major part of your job. But while that may be true from a technical perspective, there is a lot to gain from adding a friendly “thank you” message at the end of your invoices.

Why Is It Important To Add A Thank You Message To Invoice Templates? 

In the past, invoices have provided a very straightforward and no-fuss service. They were paper documents detailing the relevant names, dates, services or products obtained, and amounts owed—and that was pretty much it. 

But while these components of an invoice are still just as relevant today, there is a new chapter of business-to-business communication unfolding, and it’s called personalization. 

Digital invoices not only provide us with the tools we need to create more efficient, streamlined invoice systems, but they also enable us to become more inventive about the way we lay out these essential bills. For example, people are now taking the creative liberty to insert unique designs, logos, and unique layouts that make invoices more obliging and attention-grabbing for clients. 

Now, you might not think that embellishments are necessary or even useful for a professional accountant or accounting firm, but consider this: your clients might. 

In fact, recent research shows that showing appreciation is an excellent way to create a connection and that the average client prefers receiving (and paying) invoices that include a personal touch. A short but sincere “thank you” at the end of your invoices may seem like a small gesture, but in reality, it can make the world of a difference. Here’s why. 

  • People Like To Feel Appreciated 

The fact that saying a simple “thank you” at the end of an invoice is only entering mainstream workplace trends now should tell you everything you need to know about how needlessly stiff and detached many professional interactions have been in the past. 

When it comes down to it, the reason behind saying thank you is obvious. People like to feel appreciated. Within the vast and oftentimes depressive corporate environment, unbridled gratitude is hard to come by. But it doesn’t have to be. 

By adding a personalized thank you note at the end of your invoices, you communicate appreciation, friendliness, and empathy to your clients, and that’s always good for business. 

  • Decreased Probability Of Late Payments 

If you’re looking for a real-world incentive to practice more gratitude in the workplace, this is it. When you extend your appreciation and good wishes to clients, they are more likely to pay you on time. 

And considering just how many unpaid and delayed payments happen every day in the corporate world, this is no small advantage. According to a recent survey, only a meager 5% of companies pay all of their invoices on time. If there was a way to mitigate the risk of losing money, wouldn’t you take it? 

Studies show that by adding personalized touches to your invoices (and other business-to-client communications), you can form a stronger relationship with clients that results in more consistent and reliable payment exchanges. 

  • Promotes Healthy Workplace Culture 

Since 2020, topics like employee engagement and workplace well-being have become major points of conversation. The pandemic pushed people to their limit, which triggered a wave of chronic burnout and fatigue in all types of businesses around the world. 

Now that operational momentum is picking up once again, companies are reevaluating their approach to mental health and general care for both employees and clients. 

One of the ways this can be witnessed is through the renewed promotion of healthy workplace culture. 

From an internal perspective, healthy workplace culture looks like inclusivity, work-life balance, and adequate salary and insurance packages. From an external perspective, it looks like a focus on client satisfaction, sustainable options, improved customer support, and personalized client experiences. 

  • Sets You Apart From Competitors 

Businesses are only catching on to the personalization trend now, which means it’s still early enough for you to gain ground on competitors. While other accountants opt for the traditional, straightforward approach to invoices, other, more socially attuned ones will have an opportunity to get ahead. 

In a world where the majority of accountants are still using outdated approaches to client invoicing and communication, those that make the decision to move forward and adapt to this new era of personalization will have a much stronger chance of corporate survival. 

Finding fresh ways to engage with clients is something that will always add value to your services— whether it’s an email or an invoice slip. 

Different Ways To Say Thank You In Your Invoice Template 

Adding a thank you note to an editable free invoice template PDF is quick and easy, and there are many ways for accountants to express their gratitude in just a few words. 

  • Thank you for your business!
  • Thank you for choosing [insert company name]. We appreciate your support. 
  • Thank you for being our loyal client. 
  • Thank you for doing business with us. We value your support. 

At the end of the day, what matters most is that clients can pick up on the fact that you’ve made an effort to appreciate them. Where and how you say it doesn’t matter nearly as much as it simply being there in the first place. 

As personalization continues to dominate the world of invoice trends, small adjustments like this can boost your success as an accounting business, make you more approachable, and enhance the customer experience. A little bit of gratitude can go a long way.

Tips And Tools For An Effective And Efficient Accounting Department

Accounting Management: Tips And Tools For An Effective And Efficient Department

 

Running a successful accounting department can be challenging. There is a lot of data to manage as well as team members. Use these tips and tools to operate a more successful, effective, and efficient department.

 

Build And Develop Your Team

If you are the head of the accounting department or close to the top, you have a duty of care to your employees and an interest in their personal and professional development. Each member of staff is a building block, and how you fit them together creates a structure that you should be able to build upon. 

 

This can help you to lead your team through changes and increase your department’s capacity for growth. Your management skills can help you develop your team, your team members to develop their skills, and your department to become an even greater asset to the business.

 

Review Your Common Work Practices

This is a great way to get your team more involved with the business and decision-making and show your leadership skills and initiative. Many of your common, day-to-day business practices may be suitable for streamlining or re-evaluation to see if you can find new efficiencies. 

 

By involving your team, you can utilize their knowledge and experience as well as your own to optimal processes that can save time every day. This can increase capacity, promote growth, and create a happier, more efficient workplace.

 

Involve Everyone In Decision Making

Giving people a voice in the business and departmental decisions that affect their work life is empowering for them. This can help them to become more engaged with their job and the department and can give you valuable insights into how the office works and the processes that power it. 

 

You can use these team discussions about decisions to find new efficiencies, develop new processes, and react to changes in the business in a way that everyone can support and work with.  Though you may want to retain control and have the final say on matters, do not be afraid to introduce some democracy to discussions and take votes on issues.

 

Create Learning Opportunities And Resources

When people get bitten by the accounting bug they can often be enthusiastic about developing new skills and gaining new qualifications. Some employers in the field can see this as a threat and think employees who gain new skills will take them elsewhere. 

 

If you create avenues to new learning opportunities for employees and support them as they gain new certifications, you will have very loyal employees. Investing in your workforce is incredibly cost-effective and can give your department new skills and capabilities from a very small financial outlay.

 

Mentor Your Employees

Every team member is worthy of mentorship. They will have goals for themselves both inside and outside of the workplace, and you can help them to achieve them. This can be incredibly beneficial to your employee and your business. 

 

Happy workers are productive workers, and people who achieve goals are often hungry to achieve more. Create a thriving atmosphere of go-getters in your office through effective mentorship. This will help your business to get more value from your team and increase your capacity for growth.

 

Follow these simple tips and see the difference they can make to your department. With some careful mentorship and active discussions, your team will become stronger and more productive.  And always remember, accounting success is Universal.

 

How to Start and Grow Your Own Accounting Business From Scratch

If you’ve ever dreamed of having your own business, being your own boss, and working when and where you want, then perhaps becoming an accountrepreneur is the right career for you. Becoming an accounting professional means that you can have a business that is independent and flexible, while also allowing you to work with other businesses. 

 

When you have a natural inclination toward numbers, enjoy solving puzzles, and are interested in launching your own business, becoming an accounting specialist consultant  and advisory could be the perfect role for you. Read on to learn more about what it takes to offer quality accounting services from scratch and how to get started today.

 

What Does an Accounting Professional Do?

An accountant is a professional who provides specialized services to organizations that involve helping them with bookkeeping, accounting, tax and advisory services. Their job is to help companies to improve their financial reporting by providing them with the right tools and methods to do so. They work with a wide range of clients, including businesses small and large,

 

Being a full-fledged accountant requires experience in both accounting and advising. Accounting advisors and coaches should know how to provide detailed guidance on accounting practices and procedures, while also demonstrating a strong understanding of business processes and management techniques. Many accountants are also trained in consulting skills such as research, analysis, and presentation skills.

 

How to Become an Accounting Specialist?

Before you can start to build your own accounting business, you need to decide what you’ll specialize in. If you’re not sure what niche will work best for you, don’t worry, we’ve broken it down and listed some excellent options below: 

 

Bookkeeping & Financial Reporting

This specialization is all about helping small and medium-sized businesses with their day-to-day bookkeeping and financial reporting tasks as a Professional Bookkeeper. 

 

Business Advising 

Advisors can help businesses to solve problems, manage risk and increase their profits. This specialization can be especially helpful to businesses that are just starting or are in the process of growing their operations. 

 

Business Transformation

Businesses often need help to go through a process of change to solve a business problem or to meet the challenges of their industry. If this sounds like the kind of work you’d like to do, consider specializing in business transformation.

 

Decide What You’ll Specialize In

Becoming an accounting specialist consultant means that you will work with different businesses to help them with their accounting needs. This could include anything from providing them with regular bookkeeping services to managing their entire financial operations. 

 

Accounting specialist can also provide support to businesses that are going through mergers or acquisitions, are filing for an Initial Public Offering (IPO), or have an audit coming up. Once you’ve decided on the specialization you’d like to focus on, you’ll need to start building your reputation and letting potential clients know that you’re available. 

 

Be sure to use social media to connect with other businesses and get your name out there. You can also consider writing articles for industry publications and websites, or even starting your accounting blog. Landing your first few clients will be much easier if you already have a track record and are known as an expert in the field.

 

Get the Right Education and Training

If you want to start your accounting business from scratch, you’ll first need to make sure that you’re properly trained and qualified to handle this work. That being said, many states only require that you have a high school diploma or equivalent to become an accounting consultant. 

 

If you want to do more than just basic bookkeeping, you’ll need to get certified as a Professional Bookkeeper, QuickBooks Specialist, Professional Tax Preparer, and/or Profit & Growth Expert. While this path may be lengthy and requires a significant amount of time and dedication, it’s also one of the best ways to set yourself apart from other accountants and attract potential clients. 

 

Networking is Key

Once you’ve become a full-fledged accounting business, the key to success will be networking with other businesses. This can include everything from attending industry conferences and events to joining professional associations. 

 

Building your network and making connections will allow you to find new clients and expand your business. You can also consider joining with other consulting firms or contracting company, or working with a recruiting firm. 

 

While it can be easier to work with larger firms and recruiters, you’ll want to make sure that you’re getting a fair deal and that they can help you to find the best clients. If you decide to go this route, be sure to read through our tips below on how to make sure that you get the best deal possible.

 

Get Backing

If you are planning to start a business, it is important to first consider the amount of capital you need to get your venture off the ground. While there are of course many different ways to raise money for your business, one of the most common is through a loan. Getting credit, especially fast loan advance payments are an excellent way to get started because they provide access to capital without any fuss.

They give you access to funds that will help you make improvements and grow your business over time. No matter what type of franchise you are running, there are likely many things that can be done to improve performance and increase demand for your services.

 

Conclusion

If you’ve ever held an entry-level, management accounting position or are ready to start this new chapter in your life, you know how exciting, and challenging it can be. After all, accountants have to keep track of a company’s financial figures while also being able to see the big picture. It’s no wonder that so many people with these job skills choose to start their own accounting business from home. 

 

The U.S. Small Business Administration estimates that the demand for accounting services will continue to grow faster than the national average rate of growth for small businesses. If you enjoy working with numbers and have accounting experience, starting your own accounting business could be a great opportunity for you.  So act now and know this, accounting success is Universal, why?  Because you can be in business for yourself but not by yourself with Universal.

Start now and have the premier accounting firm in your area.

How To Find A Small Business Accountant: Useful Tips

Your business is growing, the sales are up and you’re on your way to the best year ever. This is an excellent announcement, however, what’s are the tax filing ramifications? And what about the financial goals you’ve set for the coming quarter? If you’re asking these questions, it’s the right time to consult a professional. Small-business accountants can help you navigate the maze of deductions hidden in forms, but they also give you solid advice on planning and projections. Find out the best way to locate a reliable small-business accountant.

What Can a Small-Business Accountant Do?

Small-business accountants are experts, typically Certified Public Accountants (CPAs), Professional Bookkeepers, QuickBooks Specialist, Professional Tax Preparers, and Profit & Growth Expert. They have the expertise and know-how to assist business entrepreneurs to navigate their financial accounts. Based on the business’s size as well as the needs of the business, accountants might perform their work on a weekly or quarterly basis, or even an annual one. Although larger businesses typically have accounting professionals on their staff, smaller firms typically hire an accounting company or an independent accountant, who can provide the assistance they require.

How to Find an Accountant for Small Businesses

The search term “small business accountant” will yield thousands of results and trying to sort through all of them would be difficult. Begin by asking small-business owners whom they are confident with their finances. Once you’ve got several names, do some internet studies about their backgrounds and experiences and then read any reviews.

Small-business accountants who are reputable and reputable, as well as accounting firms, shouldn’t have any difficulty arranging an exploratory meeting with you to discuss your requirements and also offer a variety of references.

Essentials to Consider When Choosing an Accountant

In the beginning, you’ll need to decide what tasks you’d like an accountant to aid in, and the frequency you’ll need their assistance. Begin by creating an agenda of your priorities, identifying the items that require immediate attention and those which will have to be addressed in six months. You’ll then have decided if you’d like to collaborate with an individual accountant or with an accounting company. Whatever you decide, it is important to select an accountant who has many years of experience working with the type of small-scale company you run and with whom you are comfortable sharing confidential details.

Find an accountant who is an expert in your field

If your company’s majority of operations are carried out by cloud-based applications it is likely that you need the services of an employee adept in cloud computing.

This rule applies to any field, for example, if you need quality written work, you should contact professionals in your field. StudyCrumb can help everyone.

It’s even better if they have been associated with companies that operate in markets similar to yours, as they will be able to understand the unique needs of your business.

It is possible to determine if they cater to customers of larger scale.

In the event that they have, it is a great sign as you’ll know they will be able to keep up with your demands in the future.

If they do not, that is not a positive sign.

It is also possible to ask for a list of customers which includes details about the company’s total earnings and the employees they employ.

Find out how their former customers have developed and changed throughout the years, to get more insight into how they’ll be capable of meeting the ever-changing needs of your business.

Red Flags To Watch For

Their accountants appear ideal on paper, yet aren’t exactly what they appear to be. While unprofessional accounting isn’t an ideal thing, it could be devastating for small-scale businesses. You must be as vigilant as you can to ensure you are not working with a fraudster which includes conducting interviews with the person, asking for references and conducting background checks. It is also important to remain engaged in your accounting procedures and be aware of warning signs such as:

  • An accountant who advises you to not keep receipts
  • Signing checks or documents without knowing what they’re to be used for
  • The estimate you receive for the services you require until your refund from tax has been calculated
  • Communication ceases or is cut off completely

To summarize

If you decide to employ an accountant for small businesses it can cost you money however, it can help you save money in the end. If you don’t have an experienced bookkeeper, accountant or tax preparer who is up-to-current on tax laws you’ll likely be missing the deductions and other small-business benefits. When your business begins expanding, you’ll probably not have the time or expertise to keep track of your accounts.

If you’re only getting started in your business venture and do not have employees, starting off with accounting software that is reliable and a well-organized system is likely to get you through for a time. However, once the expansion process begins to begin, don’t put off finding an accountant who can keep your best interests at heart.

6 Steps to Successfully Starting a Business While Moving

Life can get complicated, especially when you’re trying to start and run your own business from home. If you live in an apartment or rental space that isn’t suitable for both living and working, you may have to move. Universal Accounting School shares six steps to successfully launch your home-based business in a new home.

1. Renting a Home

If you’re going to open up a shop in your home, ensure it’s suitable for living and working. Some homes aren’t conducive for working because they have no office space or they don’t have an appropriate layout. You need to understand your finances before signing on any dotted lines. Your purchase needs to fit within your budget. If you’d rather put money into your business rather than using it for a down payment, consider renting instead of buying. There are many homes available for rent—simply search online listings and use their filters to find the ideal rental.

2. Layout of Your Home Office

Home offices are typically small, meaning it’s essential that your home office has a specific layout that works for you. Think about how you want your desk space set up and how you want to decorate it. For example, if you have children or pets, you might want to keep your expensive computer equipment hidden away in an area where they’re unlikely to accidentally break it. Plants can bring life into your workspace and add a sense of calm.

3. Moving Tips

Make a moving checklist, and label boxes clearly before packing them up. That way, when it comes time to unpack, you can stack everything in its proper place without having to open every box first.  If you’re moving with pets, getting them comfortable in the new surroundings makes for an easier transition. Ensure your pet has had ample opportunity to explore your new home, so they don’t get freaked out by unfamiliar sights, sounds, or smells.

4. Starting Your Business in Your New Location

Once you purchase a property or sign a lease agreement, register your business with Google Business so local customers can find you online. Be sure to also check if you need permits or licenses in your new area. Depending on your business, you may be required to get a zoning permit or license from local authorities before getting started. When relocating your business, challenges are inevitable, but don’t let them get you down. If you plan well in advance, are organized, and take it step by step, challenges become opportunities for great success.

5. Benefits of Forming an LLC

A limited liability company affords liability protection and tax benefits. When you form an LLC, your personal assets are protected from business liabilities, so if your small business fails and you lose money, it won’t affect your home or car. Your LLC also gives you tax advantages. Each state has its own rules for creating an LLC, so check the requirements before proceeding.

6. Using Social Media to Market Your Business

Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Linkedin and Instagram are a powerful tool for marketing your business. By creating a page or profile for your business on one or more of these platforms, you can reach a wide audience of potential customers with minimal effort. In addition, social media allows you to interact directly with your customers, build relationships, and address any concerns they may have. Best of all, creating a social media presence for your business is generally free. Enhance your social media pages with an attractive banner. Banner templates are easy to use, and many are free. Once you’ve chosen a template, you can add your own copy, font, colors, and images. 

A Successful New Start

It’s possible to start your business successfully while you move. All you need is patience, planning, and creativity. Find a suitable home, begin the process of moving, register your business, and start marketing on social media to transition smoothly and start earning a profit. Universal Accounting School offers small business, tax, accounting, and bookkeeping online certification programs. Learn more about how you can get certified.
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