From the BILLiverse
In this issue’s commentary, Bill Reeb continues the series from August, covering management and leadership in a CPA firm. Specifically, Reeb discusses what it means to “have the back” of an employee and why it’s important. Read Commentary

Exclusive Survey Results: Billing Rates Will Still Rise, CPA Firms Say
According to respondents of the Accounting Office Management & Administration Report's (AOMAR) CPA Firm Practice Management Survey 2010, two thirds of the responding firms are increasing their billing rates for the next fiscal year. This survey takes a look at current billing rates and the planned billing rates of CPA firms. Learn More

The Business Discipline of Practice Growth: Ensuring Efficient, Effective Growth
Building business by doing good work and chatting over lunch has become a thing of the past. These days, growing your business is based upon a systematic process of proven techniques. In this article, Gail Crosley, CPA talks about what it takes to achieve lasting growth within your practice. Read the Article

When Your Prospect Protests
The last article by ConvergenceCoaching, LLC discussed different emotional and relational reasons people buy and how to appeal to their needs. However, in order to close the business, it is important to "speak" to the prospect and assure them of the benefits they receive when engaging your firm. This article builds on the previous by providing tips on how to handle objections and reservations from clients and potential business prospects. Learn More

Hi-Tech Essential to 'High Performing' Firms
A recent survey conducted by Commerce Clearing House (CCH) provides new research that adds perspective to the importance of progressive thinking in creating a competitive firm.  Research shows that high performing firms are more likely to leverage technology to help them in the critical areas of staffing, client service and practice management to optimize performance.  In this article, Rick Telberg dissects the CCH survey and talks about what high performing firms are doing that sets them above the rest. Read the Article.