Who’s There for the Little Guy?
No matter the size of our businesses now, many of us, at some time, were “the little guy” – an entrepreneur founding a start-up. And some of us, because of the way we structure and operate our businesses, chose to stay small, or perhaps prefer to work as a solopreneur. There are some distinct advantages to remaining lean and nimble. But as is the case with many choices in life, there are tradeoffs.
Smaller businesses, especially startups, don’t often have the funds to bring the expertise to their team that can provide them with solid financial footing right from the start. And typically with fewer readily-accessible financial resources than their bigger brothers in the business world, may be more vulnerable to the impact of external factors. So who’s there for the little guy?
I have a passion for small business and their owners. The entrepreneurial spirit, the belief in a great idea, and the courage to take risk is the heartbeat of business, innovation and opportunity in this country. Without it we would be a different society. All businesses, regardless of size, benefit and learn from the pioneering attitudes and activities of entrepreneurs.
I have recently tested a new program I’ll be rolling out in 2020 that will benefit clients of any size. I’m excited to include affordable opportunities specifically designed for small businesses, startups and solopreneurs. With a menu of levels of service to choose from, these offerings will enable them to leap beyond much of the costly trial-and-error that small businesses experience, and develop the financial intelligence, foundations and confidence to embark upon a path to growth in ways that otherwise may be out of reach, yet are so very crucial to their success, perhaps even their survival.
Initial elements of the program include:
- A questionnaire, completed by the client prior to our first meeting, that will help drive our introductory conversation
- A two-hour discussion of current financial status and goals
- A review of financial statements
Following are comments from a business owner with which I conducted a case study in which aspects of my new program were implemented. “I discussed financial goals for the first time with someone outside of my company. I didn’t often have anyone even to talk to regarding financials; as a solopreneur, you’re typically in it alone. Our confidential conversations helped me become aware of items that could be addressed and how and when that needed to happen. Having an experienced CFO look at the big picture and ask the right questions was invaluable.”
For those who know me, you’re aware that healthy business relationships are as much at the heart of my business as financial intelligence. Small businesses rarely have someone with the perspective of a CFO and CEO to fill the role of a trusted advisor and team member. That’s an intangible benefit that I offer, hand-in-hand with my services.
Another client recently provided me with a testimonial that eloquently summarizes the value and service I strive to offer each client. I’d like to share it with you.
“Hiring Rick has been one of the best business decisions we’ve ever made. He helped us get a firm grasp on our overall financial picture, refine our process, and develop a strategic hiring plan that has allowed us to grow our business with purpose and confidence. Not only is Rick a brilliant financial mind, but he is also incredibly kind and generous with his knowledge and his time. Every meeting with him feels like a lesson from your favorite teacher – you always leave having learned something new. One of our favorite things about Rick is the way he instantly joins your team and puts himself completely in your corner, always saying “we” instead of “you.” Furthermore, Rick has also graciously connected us with other like-minded professionals in his network, including CPAs, bookkeepers, and insurance agents, who all share the mentality that we are building relationships, not exacting transactions. Once you experience working with Rick, you’ll wonder how you every got this far without him!”
This gracious portrayal of my work succinctly illustrates the experience I hope to bring to each client and their business – large or small. Watch for more details about my new program as we approach 2020.
In the meantime, I’d welcome the opportunity to partner with you to get and keep your company on track for growth. Watch this short video to learn more about the value I can bring to your business. Then schedule a complimentary 60-minute consultation to discuss your company’s financial position, needs and opportunities.
