In 2020, Inspire faced a pivotal moment. With seven team members reporting directly to me, it was clear we needed a better structure. After some soul searching (and navigating COVID), we introduced the Diamond Team Structure.

This approach not only improved my capacity and mindset but also created clear reporting lines, enabling sustainable growth for Inspire. From 2020 to 2024, we scaled by simply duplicating these teams

An accounting firm owner asked, Whens the right time to have a leadership team?

We started ours when our team had nine team, with seven out of nine joining the leadership meetings.

Using the EOS methodology, we held weekly sessions to tackle challenges, improve, and grow.

Even if youre a small firm, start now.

Gather your core teamwhether its just you and a few othersand carve out weekly time to focus on the business.

Trust me, its a game-changer.

I often hear accounting firm owners say, I just need more clients. The solution they usually jump to is hiring a marketing consultant to drive traffic and boost sales. But heres the thing: before you spend money on consultants, you need to make sure your business is set up for success.

Step one is simple: sort out your calendar. Too many of us are running on fumes, stuck in the business, and not working on it. Free up time, get your systems in order, and create space for strategic thinking.

Next, lets talk about pricing. Have you adjusted your prices in line with CPI? When you look at the compounding effect of CPI over the last few years, youll see just how important this is.

And dont overlook your sales process! If youre still using hourly rates or outdated methods, its time to move towards monthly recurring revenue. Develop a product or package thats great for your clients and your business.

Once youve nailed down your calendar, pricing, and sales, THEN its time to think about marketing. And Id start with your existing clients. Often, referrals and repeat business can be much more valuable than cold leads.

The key takeaway? Build your foundation before reaching for that marketing consultant. Once you do, the results will speak for themselves.