The pandemic fundamentally changed the ways we do business, as we quickly adapted to remote working and moved through the chaos and confusion with fewer team members but the same (or greater) amount of work, and as we pivoted operations to stay afloat and looked to a better future while navigating evolving government programs and guidelines.
A year a half later, many companies have stayed the course, through twists and turns and disruptions, and made it to what feels like the other side. But as the dust continues to settle and a business-not-as-usual landscape emerges, some companies may wonder how best to proceed – how to keep going and find ways to not just survive but thrive.
One strategy worth considering: outsourcing for accounting, human resources, and IT, allowing your company to be more efficient. Companies that work with outside help can experience a reduction in capital requirements, access to world-class capabilities, improved quality and company focus, and revenue and margin growth.
What’s become clear during the pandemic is the value that clients place on real-time information they can use to manage their business – that’s truly critical – and outsourcing can play an integral role in this.
But how do you know when the time is right to go this route? Consider these scenarios:
It’s common for organizations to feel unsure about outsourcing. After all, the fear of losing control or flexibility is real and understandable. Companies also may worry about how it’ll work out exactly, and whether employees will resist this course of action.
The idea of outsourcing bookkeeping services, for example, may feel overwhelming because of security concerns – some companies may feel more confident with this in-house. An ‘a-ha’ moment for many businesses is realizing they’ll experience an even safer and more secure process than before by working with a financial services firm.
Talking with a trusted business advisor can help lead to a decision about outsourcing that you – and your team – can feel good about. You may discover the help you need is less than you anticipated – part-time assistance with payroll services or IT is all that is required – or you begin with a full-time CFO partner and dial back as needed.
Ultimately, by working with trusted partners, many companies experience better service and have access to better information, providing a path for growth and ongoing success.
Sandra Shecter is firmwide director of Rehmann Solutions: Managed Services and Outsourcing.
At Rehmann, we strive to be The Firm of Choice not only for our clients, but for our associates as well. As our company grows – our team numbers 800 and counting – we continue to focus on training and development, to provide our clients the best solutions from the most knowledgeable team.
Here’s what Rehmann delivers: an outstanding environment full of professional challenge and reward; a culture based on putting people first and celebrating an entrepreneurial spirit; and opportunities to enrich the lives of those we serve. Passion, collaboration, and trust drive everything we do. If this sounds like you, we hope you connect with us for your next opportunity.
Kind Regards,
Randy Rupp, CPA
CEO