Newsletter, May 2005

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE

Hello Members! Happy Mothers Day to all the Moms! It is hard to believe that almost half the year is past. Time is flying by. I hope everyone is able to take some time to enjoy the spring flowers as well swimming happily and not drowning. I will not be attending the May meeting as I am preparing to go back East to visit my family. I am looking forward to a few days off.

Sincerely,

Jennifer Loren

SECRETARY'S MINUTES

Jennifer opened the meeting explaining that there were no scheduled speakers this month and instead we were having a relaxed “social” to decompress from April 15^th with Mexican food for lunch and a special ice cream sundae dessert organized by Vicki St. Martin. (THANK YOU VICKI!!!!)

Guests and new members introduced themselves and Donna Pisco won the free lunch drawing.

Karen Mora had a job announcement, and Joan with Paychex made an announcement regarding a new free service for CPA’s and Bookkeepers with clients that have accounts at Paychex. The service allows us to view and print payroll reports including payroll taxes over the internet, and also has other neat features. If you are interested in enrolling for this service, please speak directly with Joan, not your payroll representative.

Everyone enjoyed lunch and socializing!

Paula A. Mauro
SBBA Secretary

don’t forget to rsvp if you’re coming to APRIL meeting

E-mail to Jennifer Loren jen.loren@cox.net - be sure to put RSVP in the subject line of your e-mail. She must receive your response no later than the Friday before the meeting. For May that means May 13th.

How To Disagree With Your Client

An occasional difference with your client is not to be feared. It may even be an opportunity, as long as it is addressed properly.

For instance, you might not agree with something your client is doing, or may wish your client was more timely in providing you with the accounting information. Whatever the reason for your concern here are five strategies for effectively getting your views heard:

1. Wait until the timing is right. Common sense will help you determine the best time to express a concern. Don't bring a problem to your client when either of you is tired, angry, rushed, or preoccupied.

2. Keep it private. Take your concern directly to your client. Do not discuss it with others – particularly employees of the client's company. Complaining to others may get you sympathy, but it won't provide a solution and can make the situation worse if your client hears about the issue through the grapevine instead of from you.

3. Get right to the point. Address your concerns directly, without long lead-ins, apologies, or excuses.

4. Voice your opinions constructively. Outline the issues and offer solutions. Your client may not realize the problem exists unless you point it out.

5. Agree to disagree. Point out to your client that it's important for you to be able to take your concerns to him or her, even when you may have a difference of opinion. Let him or her know that you respect their position as owner or manager of the company.

Taking the time to tell your client you don't agree with a policy, procedure, or decision tells your client that you care about his or her company. And sharing your concerns with a solution in mind will stand you in good stead.

Author: Allen Bostrom, CPA, www.accounting-and-bookkeeping-tips.com

PLEASE REMEMBER to notify Vicki St. Martin of any email or address changes to keep the data base current!!

NOTE FROM THE EDITOR:

This month's Newsletter was edited by Kathy Rem. Next month's Newsletter will be edited by Jo Rogers.

We need a volunteer to prepare the April, August & December newsletters . . . how about you?