With over 12 years of experience in the financial services industry, Sheryl Simon has helped numerous business owners get back on track with their finances. She has saved owners thousands of dollars due to the precision of her work and delivered the peace of mind in knowing their finances are up to date and most importantly – accurate. Read our interview with the lovely Sheryl below…
What motivated and inspired you to start your own business?
From an early age, I have always been excited by numbers. This excitement led me to obtain my CPA. This passion led me to have the desire to help businesses understand the inner-workings of their business in a comfortable and friendly environment. I’ve also always had the desire to be my own boss.
Tell us about your business.
Know Your Numbers Accounting is a woman-owned accounting services firm focusing on the serious entrepreneur who is committed to taking their business to the next level. We provide bookkeeping, accounting, software training, and tax preparation services.
What were the first few steps you took to get your business up and running?
I ensured that I registered my business with the proper agencies and I invested in the best hardware and software.
What has been the most effective way of raising awareness of your business and getting new customers?
I have been effective at raising awareness organically through word of mouth. One of the first steps I took was to create a Facebook business page and invite all of my friends. I then asked them to share. I also attend small networking events and followed up with business owners after all events with friendly emails and newsletters.
What have been your biggest challenges so far?
My biggest challenge has been getting entrepreneurs to understand the importance of keeping up with their accounting and finances on a consistent basis. Many individuals think that meeting with their accountant once a year is sufficient. This couldn’t be more far from the truth. Everyone should be tax planning, strategizing, and bookkeeping all year! People don’t realise the real costs for bookkeeping and this is something that needs to change.
How did you overcome these challenges?
I consistently promote the importance and I use real world experience and examples. I also keep my clients informed consistently via newsletters and one to one communications. I have built my business on the foundation of maintaining an open door policy so that my clients feel comfortable with me.
How do you keep motivated through difficult times?
I always remind myself that difficult times don’t last forever. I’ve also noticed that once I make it out of a difficult situation I’m a better and stronger person afterwards.
How did you distinguish yourself from your competitors?
When most people think of accountants and CPA’s they think of someone who is stoic, unapproachable and rigid. I have committed to being the total opposite. I insist on simplified processes that increase productivity in general. When I work with clients I don’t just think about numbers, I think about their sanity as well!
What is the best advice you have received?
Get comfortable being uncomfortable.
What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs?
Stay the course, work your business every day. Invest in yourself. Learn from your peers.
What is your favorite business tool or resource?
I love Google Apps. It helps me with my daily productivity and tasks. I can service clients from anywhere. I also love reading “Accounting Today” articles. I love Instagram as well, I am a very visual person so Instagram helps me connect with individuals on the business and visual side. I like Facebook particularly because I have met a lot of knowledgable individuals in my field who I continuously learn from.
What social media outlets do you use? List them below.
• Instagram @knowyournumbersaccounting
• Twitter @kynaccounting
• LinkedIn: Sheryl Simon
• Facebook www.facebook.com/
• Website www.knowyournumbersaccounting.
• Hashtags #knowyournumbersaccounting #womenentrepreneur #kyntips #dmvaccountant
What is a good article or book you have read recently?
“Strength Finders” – this book is a must to anyone who is looking to really identify their strengths. This book made me realize that I can’t be everything to everyone, however I need to focus on what I’m really good at and be the absolute best at it.
What are your goals for the next few months and how are you striving to achieve them?
My goal is to market my business and attract clients who may be a good fit. I really want to focus on startups and creative entrepreneurs. I will be providing some amazing content geared toward this industry. I’m also looking to venture out and start filming YouTube video’s and webinars.