Starting a tax business requires commitment, dedication, and a lot of self-directed hard work. Professional tax and accounting associations can help. Many associations equip entrepreneurs and business owners with varying resources, articles, advice, and more. The National Association of Tax Professionals (NATP), National Society of Accountants (NSA), and American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), and National Association of Black Accountants (NABA) are the most well known associations in the tax/accounting industry! But why spend the money to join one or all of these associations? Here are some reasons why joining professional associations are important.
Training and Certification Information
Some associations offer specialized training programs or direct pathways to businesses who offer them. You can find opportunities to develop, refine, or expand your skills and ultimately improve your business opportunities and growth. Associations generally offer any range from beginner to expert training for members, and because of their size, they may be able to bring in industry leaders to host these training sessions, giving you the best opportunity to grow your skill set.
Networking
Networking is essential in any industry, and every business owner should be partaking. Associations bring together people of all sorts of background, experiences, and perspectives, making it one of the easiest ways to intentionally connect with others in your industry. We share similar visions, and that makes communicating much easier. An association is where you can learn and discover what makes your skills unique while also seeing what else can be brought to the table. You can also offer each other advice, seek mentorship, or offer mentorship to other professionals.
Keeping up with the News
The internet has enabled tax and accounting professionals to constantly stay up-to-date with trends, changes, IRS news, and more. However, this influx can cause an overload in information that’s hard to sift through. National associations can help professionals quickly access important, need-to-know information in a timely way to keep a finger on the pulse of the industry.
Access to Resources
National associations are wonderful places to access business resources that can help you and your employees grow. Oftentimes, the best of the best in the industry upload their advice to others, and that can be very helpful for growing tax professionals. Industry associations are often the best sources for information, knowledge, and particular skill-building. Because they are such large representatives, they can open doors that individuals cannot.
Making an Impact
Through industry associations there are several opportunities for investing. As a business, it’s always a good idea to give back to the community, not only because it’s good for the soul, but also to empower future generations in accounting and finance. As a member, you can make a difference in how your industry impacts the people in your community. This can be completed through speaking engagements, writing an article for an association publication, teaching a seminar, and so much more.
Whatever reasons you join an industry association, there are various benefits that will help you, your business, and your employees!