Top Lessons from Small Business Owners -
ADP’s “Grit & Wisdom” contest asked business owners to share the best advice they’d offer to fellow entrepreneurs. Their responses revealed three core themes every accounting professional should keep in mind:
1. Resilience is Non-Negotiable
Business owners emphasized that success doesn’t come quickly—or easily. They stressed the importance of:
- Being open to new ideas (even if they fail)
- Learning from mistakes
- Constantly adapting to change
? What this means for accountants: Prepare your clients with scenario planning and budgeting tools that account for volatility. Use financial modeling to help them stay agile.
2. A Strong Team is a Strategic Asset
Many entrepreneurs noted that how you treat employees matters more than ever. A healthy workplace culture drives motivation, creativity, and loyalty.
? What this means for accountants: Partner with your clients to align budget forecasts with HR strategies. This includes helping assess the ROI of benefits programs and training initiatives.
3. Purpose Fuels Performance
“Love” and “enjoyment” were the most frequently used words in the submissions. Despite the stress of ownership, small business leaders find meaning in their mission—and that positivity fuels long-term growth.
? What this means for accountants: Encourage your clients to invest in people, processes, and platforms that support not just profitability, but purpose-driven leadership.
Expert Advice for Your Advisory Toolkit
ADP’s internal experts weighed in with added guidance—relevant to both small business owners and the accounting professionals who support them.
✅ Offer Smarter Benefits
“There are more options now for small businesses to offer competitive benefits while still managing costs.”
— Tina Wang, VP of HR, ADP
As their trusted advisor, help clients evaluate benefit strategies that improve retention while aligning with financial goals. Don’t overlook high-impact, low-cost options like employee education on existing benefits.
✅ Prioritize Upskilling
“Learning and development are true growth engines.”
— Jason Delserro, Chief Talent Acquisition Officer, ADP
Work with clients to budget for cross-training, stretch assignments, and internal mobility. These strategies can lower turnover costs and boost employee engagement.
✅ Stay Ahead of Compliance Changes
“From wage laws to paid leave, state-level changes may require action to remain compliant.”
— Meryl Gutterman, Senior Counsel, ADP
Use your accounting practice to keep clients compliant—and proactively flag regulatory changes that may affect payroll, tax reporting, and HR documentation.
✅ Use Technology to Amplify Human Potential
“Small businesses want smart tools that reduce complexity—but still offer a human touch.”
— Brooke Hatcher, Chief Product Officer, ADP
Help clients navigate the crowded field of fintech and HR tech by recommending intuitive platforms that integrate with accounting software and improve real-time decision-making.
Final Thoughts: Your Role is More Strategic Than Ever
The needs of small businesses are changing fast—and so is the role of their accountant. You’re no longer just a bookkeeper or tax filer. You’re a coach, a compliance guide, and a catalyst for growth.
By absorbing the wisdom shared by thousands of small business owners—and translating it into clear, consultative strategies—you position yourself as a vital part of your clients’ success story.
Want more insights? Visit adp.com/gritandwisdom.