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“How to Choose the Right CPA” by Michael Lortz, CPA, LEED AP

Written by: admin February 20, 2012

Choosing the right accountant for your business is a decision that can have a profound impact, positive or negative, on you as a business owner. The right accountant can help you meet your goals while also keeping you out of trouble.

When selecting the right accountant, keep in mind that not all accountants are the same! The best accountants are typically licensed as Certified Public Accountants (CPAs). CPAs have to meet both education and experience requirements as well as pass a rigorous examination in order to become licensed. They are also required to take continuing education courses and follow strict rules including a code of professional ethics.

A good CPA does more than just crunch numbers; he or she is able to analyze numbers to produce recommendations and advice critical for the success of your business. In addition, a good CPA is adept at solving problems and telling you how you can get from where you are today to where you want to be tomorrow.

Here are some of the things that you should look for and expect from the right CPA:

Personal financial advice. The success of your business and your personal finances are linked, and the right CPA can advise you on both. That does not necessarily mean that your CPA should be managing your investments, but it does mean that your CPA should give you proactive advice regarding retirement planning, estate planning, business succession planning and the like.
Tax planning. When people think of CPAs, they generally think about taxes, but there is a wide range of services that CPAs provide, and only some of them are tax experts. The right CPA for somebody who is serious about the success of their business is a CPA who does both tax planning as well as tax preparation. While many accountants can prepare accurate tax returns, a good CPA will work with you proactively to reduce your tax burden through using the right business entity, planning transactions, and making you aware of opportunities. The tax code changes frequently, so you will want a CPA who makes continuing education a priority, and who will help you understand how to use the tax code to your advantage.
Business consulting. The right CPA will function as a trusted business advisor to you and function as a critical part of your management team. This means finding a CPA who will be available to you regardless of the time of year. It also means a commitment on your part to communicate regularly with the CPA and include him or her in your decision making process.
Networking. The best CPAs are not only good at what they do, they also know many other professionals who are the best in their fields. The right CPA will be able to introduce you to the other people you need on your team: bankers, attorneys, wealth managers, etc.

Finally, make sure you understand the fees your CPA will charge you. Some CPAs bill by the hour, others charge fixed fees, and some offer both. You will generally pay more in fees when working with the right CPA, but the value you will receive should significantly exceed the cost.

Family man and active member of the Portland business community, Michael Lortz is a Shareholder at Geffen Mesher. If you have questions or would like to speak with Michael, he may be reached at 503-445-3368 or mlortz@gmco.com.

News Room

What’s in a QR Code? [Pt 2 - How]

Written by: admin February 8, 2012

The best part about a QR code is how easy it is to create them. Several online websites will generate your QR code for free (list provided below). Effectively using your QR code can be the greater challenge.

Propel’s best suggestion is to be creative! Sure, you can simply link to a website or blog (if you do, make sure it’s a mobile-optimized site!), but people usually expect more from your code. Most hope to receive specific information or a special offer when they scan. Here is a list of uses to get you started:

Provide Resources.

Link to a page containing more information about the product you put your code on. You could also link to a page of product reviews or simply, your business card.

Connect Paper with the Internet. If you use mailers, brochures, business cards, flyers, or other forms of paper marketing, putting a QR code on them, drives your audience to your brand online.
Insider Information. Give interesting history, facts, or details about your product, services, or business.
Registration. Give customers the ability to register their new purchase quickly by using a QR code.
Social Media. Use the code to link to your social media (Facebook, Twitter)
Interactive Campaigns. One company did a nation-wide scavenger hunt using QR codes as the clues. You don’t have to be that elaborate, but enjoy thinking outside the box.

Once you have developed your strategy and know how you want to use your QR Code and where it’s going to send visitors, you’re ready to generate your code…

copy the URL link you want to send visitors to
visit one of the QR Code Generator sites (see a few suggestions below)
if using the code on a website – copy the HTML code and place in the appropriate location on your website; if using the code on printed material or documents – right click the QR Code, and choose “Save Image As” to save the box as an image on your computer
start promoting!

As promised, here are a few QR Code Generator suggestions:

www.generateqr.com (can link to website, email, twitter, or text or can create a code that when scanned will immediately add them as your friend on Facebook)
http://qrcode.kaywa.com (can link to a URL, phone number, text, sms)
www.orangeqr.com (creates all the same as above, but also provides tracking of scans for as little as $8.99/mo)
www.beqrious.com (does all the basics, plus social media, AND the ability to do upload an image or map)

Now that you have your code, you need to be able to read it, right? QR Code readers can be found as an app on just about every mobile smart phone available! Just search your app store, review your available app ratings for quality, download and start scanning!

And one last note: We suggest testing your QR Code prior to posting or printing. Be sure the readers can capture your code effectively and that they are pointing to the right location. Then track your success by monitoring your site’s analytics.

The first rule of thumb is there are no rules. Get creative, think outside the box, share this tool with others and have fun!

Now, go forth and code!

Follow this QR Code to reach Part 1 in this discussion… the “Why” behind the “How”.
qrcode

News Room

What’s in a QR Code? [Pt 1 - Why]

Written by: admin February 1, 2012

Technology constantly presents us with exciting new marketing tools. As a business growth and development company, Propel researches the latest ideas to help you find tools truly worth implementing. Recently, we have seen one aspect of technology, QR codes, emerging with great potential.

QR (“Quick Reader”) codes are the black-and-white squares resembling checker boxes that you see adorning an increasing number of products, buildings and signs, etc… QR codes work like regular barcodes, except they can store much more information.

Originally developed for the auto industry in the early 1990’s, in the last several years, the business world at-large has been utilizing QR codes as a new mechanism for marketing and advertising. The growing popularity of smart phones is what fueled the effectiveness of this strategy with one recent statistic showing 45% of Americans now have a smart phone.

To further validate, another statistic states that QR codes increased in popularity with users by 4589% from early 2010 to early 2011. This explains why 11 out of 50 Fortune companies are using them as part of their marketing strategy today.

With marketing being a foundational aspect of business growth, finding new ways to reach more people with your message is paramount. Other forms of marketing you may currently utilize reach a certain group of people. Propel has found that QR codes give you a voice in another audience: the mobile world.

One important detail to all marketing is tracking the success of your efforts. With QR codes, there are simple ways to do this. If you are linking to a webpage, use a site like bitly.com to shorten the link and track the number of scans that led people to the page.

Each business is unique, as are your customers; don’t create a QR code just for the sake of having one. Put strategy behind it so it can be an effective, marketing tool. Think about your target audience and what your end goal is, letting that dictate your approach.

All of this said, the QR Code tool has officially earned our Propel “Plan-Promote-Prosper” seal of approval. Now, get your idea generators cookin’ and get strategic!

Follow this QR Code for Part 2 in this discussion!
qrcode
Resources:
• http://www.digitalbuzzblog.com/infographic-the-rise-of-qr-codes/
• http://www.flyteblog.com/flyte/2011/03/50-count-em-50-creative-uses-of-qr-codes.html

News Room

2012 Client Continued Education Classes

Written by: admin January 31, 2012

Propel Businessworks appreciates our clients and encourages the continuous learning and development of your business practices. Join us each month as we dive deeper.

Clients are invited to participate in the following classes as we discuss important growing-your-business topics at the Tanasbourne Umpqua Bank 2870 NW Town Center Drive, Beaverton, OR 97006. Each class is from 9am-10:30am and is only $10.00 pre-register and $15.00 at the door.

Come learn!

February 7th – 3 Steps to Promoting Your Business Online – Learn how to Attract, Engage and Connect with your audience!

March 6th – Double your Marketing Impact with Cross-Promotion – Learn how partners in business can double your marketing dollars and effort

April 10th – How Blogs and Social Media are changing our Business Direction – Discover how to become relevant in today’s online world.

May 8th – Maximize your YouTube Marketing Opportunities – Get noticed and be relevant Today!

June 12th – 4 Marketing Strategies to Maximize your online Presence – Monitoring your Brand – Network with higher ranking website Owners -Taking ownership of your Company page – Managing an AD campaign

July 10th – 10 Secrets for creating Viral Marketing – Understanding how word of mouth spreads

News Room

“5 Essential Business Apps to Help You Get Organized” by Brandie Kajino

Written by: admin January 17, 2012

Organization can happen at any time, but we tend to focus on it in the beginning of the year. It seems like a fresh start, and we’re all determined to get things right this time around. Luckily, in the past few years, smartphone and online apps have made managing the details a lot easier.

So, what’s an “app”? Think of it like a small piece of software, custom made for your smart phone, tablet device or logging in and using it online. Most of these uber-useful tools are less than coffee for two at your local cafe. Many of these are “freemium” apps. What’s that? “Freemium” means you can start with their free version, and if you like it, upgrade to their paid version for more storage, features or both. Or, you can continue to use the free version.

So, what are some of the apps your business can’t possibly live without? Let’s go beyond the obvious email and note-taking, and focus on mobile working. If you’re using app, it’s likely on the go. Here’s a handful of my favorites, which I personally use or recommend regularly.

TimeTimer

I had heard about this little tool years ago, in the beginning of my career as a professional organizer. It was literally a clock you could buy, which has now become an app. There are a few ways you can use this, but basically your timer is a big red pie, which disappears as your time runs out. How is this useful for business? Time your presentation, client appointment or coffee date. Still see red? You have time. Out of red? You’re out of time.

1Password

Have more than one or two passwords? I bet you do. Let’s also hope that you have more than one password (or you’ll pinky swear to do this starting today). Having a good strong password is crucially important to keep your information as safe as possible. There’s no guarantee the bad guys won’t get in, but we can at least make sure we’re not rolling out the red carpet for them with easy passwords. The easiest way to track your passwords is by using a password “keeper” like 1Password. Assign unique

Dropbox
Wouldn’t it be great to have a folder you could access anywhere, and share with people at will? Wouldn’t it also be great if said folder worked like a regular folder on your computer, where you could drag and drop things into it? Oh wait, someone has done that. Dropbox is free to start, and you can upgrade for more space and features. Once you sign up, a Dropbox folder is set up on your computer. Drag, drop and share to your heart’s content. Use the app on your smartphone, and have access to your stuff anywhere. How’s this useful for business? Ever worked on a project with a group of people and needed share things without clogging up valuable inbox space? Give this a try.

Siri
Oh how I love a digital assistant, that understands words, and can tell me what I need to know whenever I want. If you’ve read my other article on how to work from a coffee shop, you’ll know I frequent them. Between appointments, I’ll stop in and get a lil’ work done. What if you’re somewhere you’re not familiar with? Ask Siri, who uses advance voice recognition software to listen to your question and then give you information. You can also get weather updates, send out a Twitter status, find out a flight status or even set a reminder. The possibilities are endless, and I think they are just getting started. It’s like having a digital assistant in your pocket, who doesn’t need a coffee break. Ahh, digital assisted bliss… even if it necessary to get a new phone.

HiTask
Tasks. We all have them. What if you want to remember to do something on a certain day, or wished to set a recurring task for yourself? There are lots of task apps out there, and this one is my favorite right now. I love the ability to track tasks by project, date and whatever else. It also seems small, but if I want to move a task to another day, I can simply drag and drop it to another date on the calendar (it’s the little things that make me happy.) This app is as simple or as complex as you need it to be, and it may not matter to you, but it is also a gorgeous design. Hey, pretty and useful speaks to me. Oh, and it’s free or about the cost of a latte per month. Bring it on, task list.

Brandie Kajino helps women entrepreneurs (and a few good men) leverage technology in their business. Find out more at…

SOHOSolutionist.com

SOHOTechTraining.com - Tech Training for Women Entrepreneurs

SMOBooks.com - Organize & Measure Results in Social Media

News Room

A New Year, A New You

Written by: admin January 9, 2012

Interested in the video digest version? Find it at http://youtu.be/6TddLDlfzdw

FACT: More than 70% of Americans do not set or write down goals.
FACT: Out of the 30% that actually write goals, 25% of the goals are broken within the first week of setting them.

Now, before you allow pressure, guilt or despair to defeat any resolve, consider this new year your chance to press your life’s “Re-boot” button. 2012 is fresh; a new chapter waiting to be written. Now, exhale…visualize the calm that accompanies de-cluttering your thoughts and re-gaining focus.

Goal-setting need not consume precious hours or require a weekend of total solitude in a remote location. Even if you only have 30 minutes to invest, statistics prove the clincher to achievement is how often you revisit your goals and measure progress. More specifically, studies show that reviewing your goals at least every 3 days, increases your chances of achieving them by over 90%. Assuming you have set reasonable goals with reasonable timeframes, this statistic should add more than a little fuel to your resolution efforts!

Without dreams, you cannot hope to fulfill your potential. Without a plan, you cannot hope to fulfill your dreams. Thankfully, it has never been easier to set goals and carry them through to completion. There is a multitude of resources provided by the internet, social media venues and even Apps for our phones.

Here are a few of our suggestions to “propel” you (sorry, we couldn’t resist) into making 2012 a year of professional and personal fulfillment:

• Write down your goals
Start by thinking in reverse: What do you hope life will look like at the end of 2012? What needs to change? What resources or training would the change require? Etc… This is where a little help from the internet comes in. And each of the websites listed under “Resources” at the end of this post have step-by-step instructions if you hit a road block in your brainstorming.

• Share your goals with family, friends and colleagues
Openness with others develops a framework of accountability. If you’re really brave, asking for insight into your strengths and weaknesses can be a priceless resource to fine tuning steps to achieving your goals. Based on what your goals are, be sure to thoughtfully choose those you seek advice from by looking for strategic alliances with those who have proven track records.

This is also where you could benefit by incorporating the power of social media such as: Facebook, Twitter and blogs. Join an existing conversation or create your own by inviting people to follow your “New Year’s Resolution” progress and share their own goal-setting process. If social media is not one of your strong points, find out how Propel can help!

• Revisit your goals and measure your progress
In order to achieve new goals humans must re-program ourselves. Repetition is key to creating the new habits required to changing your life. Find a simple way of incorporating your written goals in your day-to-day life: some put a post-it on bathroom mirrors; others carry around notecards. Most cell phone calendars allow reoccurring reminders, in which you could program daily/weekly “Goal reminders”. This tool alone has fulfilled many a resolution to “Never again forget so-and-sos birthday.”

While reminding yourself of your priorities, take this time to also check for progress. Setting deadlines for certain steps in your plan will be a tremendous motivator and measuring stick for success. Meeting a deadline is the best reassurance that you’re one step closer to realizing your dream.

• Celebrate 2012 and…“Re-boot”
Now fast-forward and pretend that it’s the last week of December 2012. No matter the outcome, celebrate and count your blessings! Just the fact that you wrote down your goals puts you in the 30th percentile of Americans. Nothing is wasted if you take a moment to learn from your successes and shortcomings – paying special attention to both the technical (processes/strategies) and psychological (emotions/attitudes) aspects of what you did right and what you need to change for 2013. Never dismiss mistakes. You’ll learn more from your mistakes then you ever will from your successes…

Now, exhale and…“Re-boot.”

Resources:
propelbusinessworks.com – Comprehensive Business Planning and Promotion
HowStuffWorks.com “How to Set Career Goals”
MindTools.com “Personal Goal Setting” (in-depth) – Tips, Phone Apps, Workbooks, Blogs
SidSavara.com “7 Steps for Setting Realistic Goals” (goal-setting simplified) – Tips, Simple Forms, Support, Blogs

Inspiration:
“A goal casually set and lightly taken will be freely abandoned at the first obstacle.” – Zig Ziglar

“Live life, one day at a time. Being positive is your best tool to keeping your resolutions on track. With the right attitude, challenges and setbacks become opportunities. Approaching 2012 with the right attitude can be the difference between success or disappointment.” – Jamie Teasdale

The Little Book of Big Motivational Quotes (Free)

News Room

Portland, Oregon – Why We Live Here

Written by: admin January 5, 2012

Portland, OR 2012 Propel Businessworks

Note from Propel’s Chief Editor:

I have had the undeniable pleasure of being born and raised in Portland, Oregon! As a loyal, webbed-foot participant of the Pacific Northwest, I am proud of and steeped in my city and it’s surrounding metro area. We have so many reasons to marvel in the beauty that surrounds us on a daily basis and be satisfied withour diverse living styles.

Today, I found this video produced by Travel Portland. This truly embodies the many treasures and vast reasons to live, play and stay in this wonderful city.

As a business owner, I am in awe of the vast array of business types that can flourish here.

What idea do you have? I bet Portland could help you succeed at your vision… Enjoy! – Jamie T.

News Room

1/12/12 – “Netiquette” & Client Management Systems Encore

Written by: admin January 1, 2012

Back by popular demand, an encore session…

Make 2012 a GREAT Year!
Nicole from Propel Businessworks and Lori of Send Out Cards offers:

“Netiquette” & Client Management Systems

Manage your Networking Online and Learn to use SendOutCards.com to manage your communication with clients throughout the year.

Cost: $20.00 pre-register ($25.00 at the door)
Time: 9am – 10:30am
Location: Umpqua Bank 185th at Tanasbourne (2870 Northwest Town Center Drive, Beaverton, OR)

Class Agenda:
- Put your Linkedin Network to Good Use! How to react to online requests!
- Keep in Contact Using ‘Send Out Cards’
- Built-in Client Management System
- Easy Drip Campaigns throughout the year (12 months)
- How to Make use of Your Online Network – Unleash the power!

Questions? Call Nicole 503.310.5377 or Email: Nicole@PropelBizworks.com

News Room

The Power of Gratitude

Written by: admin December 6, 2011

This is the time of year to count your blessings and express gratefulness to those who have made a difference. Here at Propel we owe so much to you, not only as a client, but because you have enriched our lives.

Note from the Editor –
Last month, I took a few days to stop and plan for 2012, but before I could plan for a whole new year I had to stop and reflect on what the last twelve months has brought me. So, as another year winds down, it’s with a humble heart that I remember on the lessons learned and the amazing people I’ve had the privilege to work beside.

I’m sending a very special thank you to each of my clients and students, my contractors, business associates, my awesome representatives and my employee, who made this year worth noting! I am grateful for the growth you’ve pollinated not only in my own life, but in the life of Propel and I wish each of you the kind of support and success you have offered me.

The words “thank you” don’t touch what my heart wants to say. But it’s the very least of what I can offer to show my gratitude.

Cheers to a new a year of adventure that lies ahead in 2012! Let’s make this the best year yet! - Jamie

This holiday, we want to express our sincere thanks, and offer inspiration about the power of gratitude.

Cultivating a culture of gratitude in your business may sound idealistic, but it’s actually a proven, strategy for many notable companies such as: Nordstrom, Les Schwab, Southwest Airlines and others. Not only is it good for business, but developing an attitude of gratefulness affects your personal outlook on life as you realize how much you truly have to be grateful for.

Here are strategies for expressing gratitude that Propel has found to be meaningful:

Most simply, a heart-felt “Thank you” cannot be undervalued or overused. No need to be wordy or emotional, nor should it be hurried or half-hearted. With the proper tone of voice, body language, and eye contact, “Thank you” becomes a powerful way of connecting.

When expressing gratitude, be specific, such as: “Thank you for your time,” “Thank you for the input you gave me about that project,” etc… Even if your words seem trivial, no one forgets the feeling of being appreciated and they are most likely to reciprocate.

Do not underestimate the impact of thank-you cards; they are a lost art in this fast-paced business world. More than an email or phone call, a hand-written note communicates the value of the relationship. Be intentional about including specifics regarding qualities you admire or the act of which you are appreciative.

Recently, my friend told me about how her insurance broker of 15 years ends every meeting and conversation with, “Thank you for being my customer.” It’s so intentional and consistent that one day she questioned him. He explained, that with all the options she has, he truly feels grateful and appreciative every time she chooses to continue to work with him. Could it be that simple? Of course it is! In today’s world, we would be amiss to take any level of success for granted.

Each person desires to be valued. Expressing gratitude to your clients builds a strong connection leading to loyalty. More importantly, gratefulness powerfully affects your approach to life, setting a course for true success…This kind of success is not measured by dollar signs, but rather by the quality and depth of your relationships.

This holiday season, if you make one resolution, resolve to embrace the power of gratitude.

Propel’s Suggested “Power of Gratitude” Resources:

HugYourCustomers.com
Forbes “Growing your business through practicing gratitude”
Thank you note examples and tips

Propel - Business Works