For many, the word “accountant” is synonymous with boring. For most business owners, when they hear the word accountant all they think about are complicated financial reports and numbers that go over their heads. This can be discouraging for accounting firms who see themselves as true strategic partners to entrepreneurs of all shapes and sizes – but it doesn’t have to be this way! And thanks to technology, there are more ways than ever before for accountants to connect with clients in a meaningful way. Here’s how you can grow your accounting firm online in 5 easy steps:
1. Connect with Clients on Social Media Platforms
A great place to start is by connecting on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn. Be sure to routinely post content that is helpful to your audience. This could be posts about tax tips, informative articles or any industry changes that might be affecting business owners.
2. Post Videos on YouTube
Another great way to connect with clients is through videos. If you are good at giving advice but don’t have the time/resources for a video chat with every client, consider creating simple videos for YouTube to help guide them towards their goals. For example, if you work with a lot of gym owners who are looking to open up new locations and you know the ins and outs of working with franchisees, put together a quick video that gives them some key advice on how they can get started.
3) Build an Email Newsletter
While email marketing may not be as sexy as other platforms, it still works and can be a great way to stay in touch with clients on a regular basis. Instead of blasting out promotional messages about your services, create content that is helpful for your audience. For example, you might send an email to gym owners who are about to open their second location with some helpful advice on how to get off the ground.
4) Blog
Similar to email, blogging is another channel that can be used to tell your firm’s story, share industry news and provide valuable content related to your niche. You can also use this blog to post about upcoming events or open positions your firm is hiring for.
5) Post to Social Channels
To make sure you are constantly reaching a wider audience, be sure to post content from your blog and email newsletter across social media channels like Twitter and Facebook. By sharing links to informative articles or videos related to your niche, you can keep the conversation going with prospects and clients who may not be ready to hire your firm just yet.
Although it can be easy to get discouraged when you start thinking about all of the different platforms that are out there, if you stick with a few and see how it works for your practice, you’ll soon realize that social media is an effective way to connect with prospects and let them know what you have to offer. When in doubt, remember that content is key – and that by providing helpful tips and resources related to your field, the relationship with your clients will only continue to grow!