Practically once a week, I get an email from a company offering a “how to” do something class. One of the regulars is a class in practical QuickBooks training. Now as an accountant, who owns her own bookkeeping firm, I used to delete those emails immediately. Why would I need to take an introductory class on something I do daily? But last year, after another email, I said, why not check it out? So I did. And guess what? It didn’t suck and turned out to be money well spent. So if you have the same opportunity, go for it. Here are some reasons why:
- LEARN SOMETHING IN A NEW WAY: They say you can’t teach an old dog new tricks, but you can learn to do something you’ve been doing for years in a different way. To be honest, I knew everything the instructor was teaching about QuickBooks since I use it daily, but I learned a couple of interesting shortcuts. Plus, being in a class of newbies, I got to hear questions being asked about the accounting software that gave me insight into what my own clients might have on their minds.
- CHECK OUT YOUR COMPETITION: The QuickBooks training class I took was given by an accounting firm I wasn’t truly familiar with, but wanted to know more about. I took the class and learned about the owner’s work philosophy and background. In the end, I introduced myself and today, we still remain in contact.
- MEET POTENTIAL NEW CLIENTS: As the owner of Brigade Bookkeeping, it’s not my style to spy or sneak around and steal other people’s clients, especially on their own turf. I prefer referrals or networking to meet new clients. That being said, if you happen to meet someone who is looking for professional help in your line of work, don’t just walk away. Give them your business card. There are no rules against it. Even better, do what I did, and introduce yourself and be honest with the person whose class you’re taking. That person now refers me clients and vice versa.
Learning something new can broaden your knowledge base. But learning a new way of doing something you’ve been doing for years the same way is enlightening! This week I challenge you to do that. If you don’t want to take a class or don’t have the time, read a “how to” or “dummy’s guide” book. You can also sign up for a college level class at a nearby university. Expand your knowledge, be curious, and have fun learning something old in a new way.