The Importance of Asking Questions Early
“Early on, you can ask as many questions about the business and operations as you want, and it won’t reflect poorly on you. It might even enhance your reputation for thoroughness. However, when you ask a question about something you should know after you have been working on their records for a period of time, you look foolish or amateurish. The takeaway is to ask about everything you can possibly think about when you first get the client and ask right away whenever something new arises."
In reading Memoirs of a CPA from Edward Mendlowitz, one thing that stuck out was the section on asking questions. This very much resonated with our experience at Madras Accountancy–in the realm of accounting, the timing and frequency of questions can significantly impact your professional image and the quality of your service. Early inquiry is not just beneficial but essential.
When you start with a new client, it’s crucial to ask as many questions as possible about their business and operations. This early-stage questioning serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it helps you build a comprehensive understanding of the client's business, which is fundamental for effective financial management and advisory. Demonstrating thoroughness and diligence from the outset enhances your reputation and shows your commitment to delivering tailored and effective solutions.
Moreover, early questioning prevents future embarrassment. It’s better to clarify all uncertainties at the beginning and continue to ask questions whenever new situations arise. This proactive approach ensures you remain well-informed and capable of handling the client’s evolving needs.
For example, we provide outsourcing services for other CPA firms and bookkeepers. Recently, we onboarded a CPA firm with a complex client base. During our initial meetings, we asked detailed questions about their client management processes, specific software they use, and any unique processes they employ.
This specific CPA firm managed a diverse portfolio, including clients with intricate tax situations and specialized industry requirements. We dove into their workflows, from client onboarding procedures to the nuances of their tax preparation and filing processes. We also inquired about their preferred communication channels and frequency for updates.
Our approach included creating a tailored questionnaire that covered every aspect of their operations. This allowed us to gather all necessary information upfront, eliminating the need for repetitive follow-ups. As we began our work, the initial thorough questioning proved invaluable. We were able to identify potential areas for process improvement, recommend best practices, and implement solutions that enhanced their overall efficiency.
One critical aspect we discovered early on was their use of a niche accounting software that required specific expertise. By identifying this during our initial meetings, we were able to allocate team members with the right skill set, ensuring that we could provide immediate and effective support. Had we not asked about this, the entire engagement would not have been successful.
By addressing these concerns at the start and maintaining open communication we were able to deliver top-tier service, tailored precisely to their needs.
By following this approach, you lay the groundwork for a strong client relationship, showcase your expertise, and position yourself to provide the best possible service. In accounting, there are no bad questions—especially at the start.
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Have questions yourself? Interested in outsourcing? Just reach out, we’d love to help.
