The selection of the right financial tools can significantly impact the efficiency and success of a company. This sentiment is echoed in our conversation with John Soto, a small business owner who has firsthand experience with the advantages of incorporating FINSYNC into his business operations.

 

John and his wife, Nydia, run Athena Behavioral Treatment Center in Gainsville, Virginia. Their organization is dedicated to assisting children with autism. John and Nydia’s journey, which began with a personal recognition of the demand for specialized services, has been marked by an array of challenges and achievements.

 

What prompted you to start using FINSYNC?

I opened a business account with Fulton Bank in Manassas, Virginia. FINSYNC was recommended and decided to go with you.

 

What about the FINSYNC Platform attracted you?

It is pretty much all in one place, including payroll. This was important to me to find a platform where I could also do payroll, so this was a good option. It is also very user-friendly, which was a plus. 

 

Tell me about your company and what inspired you to start.

We have a company that provides behavioral health services for kids with autism. My wife and I realized there was a big need for kids to have these services. My wife is a board-certified behavioral analyst. She had experience managing people from prior military and government work, so we decided to do it on our own and launch our own company. So far, so good. 

 

What are some of the challenges you’ve faced as a small business owner?

Staffing can be a challenge. It is difficult to find people that have a good work ethic. Since COVID, there are a lot of people who want to stay home and don’t want to work. We have been lucky to have found good employees, and we are staffed, but we always need more people, and it can be a struggle to find the right fit. 

 

What’s the best thing about being a small business owner? 

Being your own boss is great. Grabbing an idea and knowing it is yours from start to finish. Whether it fails or succeeds is on you. You have to work hard, and you see the rewards from the hard work you put in. 

 

What are the biggest benefits your business has experienced using FINSYNC?

Everything is right there on one platform. This helps us with our reports. The payroll is set up to make sure that all of our employees are paid in addition, our bills are taken care of so we can stay in business.

 

I have used your customer service. They have always helped me out with any questions I have or any issues that come up. They have always been there for us.

 

What advice do you have for those thinking about starting their own business?

Do a lot of research. Make sure you know what you are getting into. Knowing what to expect is essential to your success. Passion is also important, but it might not be the right area to open a business even though you love it. So, that is why the research part is just as important as loving what you are doing. 

 

Also, find good support. Locate a bank that is going to support you. If you need payroll for your business, make sure you go with the right company to support you when you need it.  

 

FINSYNC allows you to run your business on One Platform. You can send and receive payments, process payroll, automate accounting, and manage cash flow. To learn more about how we can help your business start, scale, and succeed, contact us today.

 

Heather, the owner of the successful accounting firm Optimum Accounting, knows how crucial effective client management is. But she’s not just any accountant. Heather is a champion for small businesses, deeply aware of their need to master cash flow management. She understands this is often the key to whether a new business thrives or folds. With this in mind, she’s always looking for the best tools to help her clients succeed. 

That is why she’s added FINSYNC, an all-in-one accounting platform, to her toolbox. It is just another way she’s committed to helping businesses flourish.

As we dive deeper into her interview, we will explore Heather’s journey, her decision-making process, and the transformative role that FINSYNC plays in successfully managing her accounting firm.

 

What do you enjoy the most about being an Accountant?

I like taking care of people; it is in my nature. Saving these businesses from themselves is an expertise I value. I also enjoy complicated numbers and troubleshooting big problems. 

 

What is the biggest challenge you face with your business?

My biggest challenge is industry-wide when owners don’t listen to their bookkeepers and accountants, do what they want, and expect us to clean it all up. Or the client who hasn’t filed taxes in five years can also be a challenge. But we work through them, and it is never as bad as what people fear.

 

What is the biggest challenge your business customers/clients face today?

Most clients are feeling the pinch of inflation, especially my clients who are in the food industry. The prices for food supplies are just ridiculous right now, and they are really feeling it. High prices are affecting everyone, though. Cash flow is a big problem with many of my clients, and everyone is getting creative.

 

How did you hear about FINSYNC?

I became a WaFd Bank customer back when they provided PPP loans. I had established a relationship with Robin and sent 30 of my clients to WaFd. When I was introduced to FINSYNC, I was at my wit’s end with Quickbooks. Now, I just referred my third client to the FINSYNC platform. 

 

How many business customers/clients do you have that are using the FINSYNC platform?

Three and two of them run payroll. I plan to migrate at least 12-15 clients to FINSYNC by the end of the year. 

I appreciate that FINSYNC helps listen to what the end users see. Sometimes, coders have grand ideas that don’t materialize well in practice.

 

What feature of FINSYNC do you find most helpful for your client’s businesses?

One of my clients is an electrician, and once he got set up, the job costing tasks made sense. I appreciate that if we have to run the Payroll job costing, we can, but if we need to run it on the fly and just put in 80 hours, we can do that too. I appreciate that FINSYNC handles all of the taxes and reporting automatically.

I also appreciate your local customer service. I don’t like it when a support agent sounds like they are reading from a script. That doesn’t happen at FINSYNC. These are the major plus points for myself and my clients. 

 

In your experience, what types of businesses or industries are best suited for FINSYNC?

I can see all of the industries using FINSYNC effectively so far. 

 

In what ways do your business customers benefit from using FINSYNC?

The support has been great, and I have always been able to reach out to them for any issues that might arise. As I bring more people over, I will utilize this much more, I am sure.

The job costing feature is used and appreciated by owners from all industries.

Also, while I was in the setup process for payroll, it was so nice to be able to send your support team an email and tell them exactly where I was hung up. They are always right there to give me what I need.

 

What is one piece of advice you would give to a small business starting out today?

If you don’t know how to set up your books, invest in a bookkeeper. It is well worth the money spent to get your books set up correctly from the get-go. You will save yourself a ton of money and lots of headaches. You won’t shed so many tears. In fact, just call me. I’ll get you on the right path, teach you what you need to know, and save you from yourself. 

 

FINSYNC Accounting Partner Program

We understand accounting professionals’ critical role in a business’s success. This is why we have designed the FINSYNC Accounting Partner Program. Where a dedicated Account Manager will help you achieve your firm’s goals. FINSYNC’s platform consolidates all financial operations into an all-in-one system, ensuring smooth financial management while connecting businesses with the right financial experts. 

Diving into the banking world, especially in personal connections and digital solutions, requires a blend of empathy, knowledge, and resilience. Meet Ashley Dadje, a personal banker with WaFd Bank. Her journey with her clients is as personal as it gets. 

 

Ashley cherishes the core values of her team. Her perspective provides a unique blend of professional dedication and innovative approach. In this Spotlight Interview, we reveal the passion and principles that guide Ashley in her role, how she identifies potential partnerships, and her insights into navigating the challenges and rewards of introducing new solutions to customers. 

 

What do you enjoy the most about your job?

The impact I make in every encounter with our clients is significant. This extends from individual members to our small businesses that are expanding. As a personal banker, it’s personal. Each connection is unique, and I’m grateful for the chance to make a difference in their lives.

 

What is your favorite aspect of being a member of the WaFd team?

I love our core values at WaFd. Integrity is very important to us. When we say we will do something, we do it. If we say we won’t, we don’t. I truly respect this, right up to our CEO. He embodies the same values—humility, integrity, and respect—which I deeply admire about WaFd Bank.

 

How do you identify business owners that may be a good match for FINSYNC?

First, I ask them if they are using a banking platform for their finances. What I appreciate about your website is the comparison between FINSYNC and QuickBooks. It is truly helpful. I was especially drawn to the success stories. Reading about those who previously used QuickBooks, had unfavorable experiences, and found FINSYNC to be simpler and more affordable was enlightening.

 

What is your approach like?

I gathered the testimonials and made a list of positive experiences with FINSYNC. I was able to get our Branch Business lists of accounts from my manager as a good starting point. Initially, it was challenging because I wasn’t very familiar with the platform. However, I persisted, continued learning, and gradually built confidence. Whenever I have questions, I reach out to FINSYNC. They are always available, very knowledgeable, and respond promptly.

 

Do you think your customers struggle with other software solutions, such as QuickBooks?

I appreciate that FINSYNC provides the software platform for payments for free while QuickBooks charges. My customers not only get FINSYNC but also have the backing of WaFd Bank. It is like they are supported on all sides, much like a square.

 

What do you like best about FINSYNC?

I think FINSYNC is great! It is so simple to use. If customers want to add payroll processing or other accounting features, they just add it by clicking a button. I also love how efficient it is when it comes to your customer support team. I highly believe in FINSYNC! 

 

What can you say to other bankers who don’t know a lot about FINSYNC?

I joined as a personal banker about a year ago and had to continuously learn and adapt. In supporting businesses, both confidence and knowledge are crucial. Likewise, being proactive and willing to take initiative is equally important.

 

At first, the webinars felt like a lot of information. But I soon realized it was a decision for an individual to move past that fear and dive in. Initially, I was nervous that business owners would ask me something I didn’t know. But the aim is to introduce them to the platform, not to answer every question. We, as bankers, are the middlemen, while the FINSYNC team is the experts. My main goal is to stay in my lane and invite my customers to learn more. It is key to avoid getting too technical and, most importantly, to stay confident!

 

FINSYNC allows you to run your business on One Platform. You can send and receive payments, process payroll, automate accounting, and manage cash flow. To learn more about how we can help your business start, scale, and succeed, contact us today.

 

Banking and running a small business are often opposite sides of the same coin. Finding someone who straddles both worlds with as much passion and expertise as Travis Duran is rare. As a small business owner and a trusted banker with WaFd Bank, one of FINSYNC’s respected partner banks, Travis has a unique lens through which he views financial tools and solutions. 

 

Outside his bank, Travis and his wife run a local bakery in Arizona called Bubble & Bruja. With a name inspired by Shakespeare, their bakery captures creativity and dedication.

 

In this interview, Travis provides insights into his journey with FINSYNC as both a banker and an entrepreneur. Exploring the platform’s solutions and numerous benefits, he shares his perspective on how FINSYNC has transformed his approach to financial management for his bakery and how it can benefit other businesses.

 

How did you first hear about FINSYNC?

I was part of the initial WaFd Bank partner rollout with FINSYNC. We at WaFd were excited to get a more comprehensive strategic partnership. Integrating the invoicing, cash flow management, and other services round out the tools we don’t have on the banking side. 

 

What about the FINSYNC Platform attracted you to it?

WaFd has a lot of self-sufficient customers who are hands-on with their businesses. They start their business for a passion they might have. A common complaint is that they have to be their own accountant. They no longer have time to have dinner with their families because they are running the cash side of their company. I was instantly excited that FINSYNC could save my banking customers money and guarantee them time savings.

 

As a banker, what specific features of FINSYNC do you believe most resonate with business customers?

We have several tradespeople across the full-trade spectrum, like handyman contractors and home service workers. They struggle with their accounts receivable and ensuring their invoices have been paid. Balancing the books can be a challenge for them. 

 

Also, invoicing directly through FINSYNC and integrating those invoices directly into the cash flow management side is a big need for our customers. 

 

How does FINSYNC compare to other accounting platforms you have come across?

We have always heard complaints about QuickBooks. Knowing this was a QuickBooks Online alternative was an easy resource to tell our clients. For our small business customers, we have observed that they sometimes rely on Excel spreadsheets or handwritten notes for accounting, which can pose challenges. So, we like that FINSYNC integrates different systems into one.

 

The reporting aspect is huge as well. Being able to track to the penny where your money is going, what is owed to you, what will you owe down the road? Being able to answer these questions has been a big resource for clients. Cutting down on their paper and allowing them to ditch QuickBooks. Because there are banking systems that QuickBooks doesn’t speak effectively to, FINSYNC solves this problem.  

 

How has FINSYNC supported or enhanced your banking relationships with these businesses?

Speaking personally from the banking side, I offer FINSYNC as an alternative to QuickBooks to nearly every business client who walks through the door. 

 

In addition, my wife and I also run a side business, and FINSYNC helped us get through the holidays and attract customers outside our immediate market. An example of a success story is my own experience with my company. 

 

Tell me about your company and what inspired you to start.

Here in Arizona, bakery owners can run on cottage food laws as long as they are not selling perishable items. We got a license out of our home, got insured, and sold to farmers’ markets, B2C and B2B. There is a lot of flexibility with our local licensing.

 

My wife worked for a bakery in Phoenix, so she had more of the know-how, and I am more of a visionary. We both liked the idea of creating something new. We are both literary buffs, so “Bubble & Brujah” is based on Shakespeare’s mysticism, producing a magical play on words.

 

What are some of the challenges you’ve faced as a small business owner?

Time management was a big challenge since I am a full-time banker. Accessing a broader market outside of our friends and family was also challenging. We were successfully able to do this with the marketing experience I have. This brought its own challenges; the marketing outreach resulted in the need to accept credit card payments. We had to figure out how to accept debit and credit cards. This is where FINSYNC came in. 

 

What are the biggest benefits your business has experienced using FINSYNC? 

FINSYNC is an all-in-one platform. It links to the bank account and shows me money in and out. It shows me what is coming in; I can balance that once I see when it hits my account. It integrates easily into one. The time management and organizational benefit of keeping everything housed within one platform makes it easy to answer questions like, “What is my profitability?” or “What are our costs this month?” These are questions all small business owners should be asking themselves. 

 

With inflation being as rampant as it has been the last couple of years, FINSYNC makes it easy to actively track what is going out versus what is coming in. We were buffered from inflation since we could be more nimble to adjust what was necessary to survive. 

 

How has FINSYNC’s customer support or onboarding process been for you personally and for those you’ve invited to FINSYNC?

We have customers who have been using QuickBooks for a long time, so they bring in their information on a disk. There is no one they can talk to, and they are passed around from one phone prompt to another without resolving their issues. 

 

I have had experience with customer service on the bank side, where it is super easy to talk to our dedicated service person. I have also had experience on the customer side as well. Whenever I have an issue, there is an expert who knows how to walk me through where I need help. Even though it is a Fintech company, people are working on the backend to help those needing more hand-holding. I am one of those customers.

 

What advice do you have for those thinking about starting their own business?

It is easy to start a business here in the United States. You can be an entrepreneur if you have the tenacity and confidence to create something that people will want. 

 

Depending on what you are doing, you can make a difference. We have made wedding cakes, celebrated baby showers and sweet sixteen birthdays, etc. You get to be part of someone’s life at that moment. If you are considering starting a business, I would encourage everyone to at least try it.

 

FINSYNC allows you to run your business on One Platform. You can send and receive payments, process payroll, automate accounting, and manage cash flow. To learn more about how we can help your business start, scale, and succeed, contact us today.

In the world of entrepreneurship, stories of hard work, dedication, and perseverance often stand out. This Spotlight Interview delves into the journey of Benjamin Walker as he launched his waste distribution venture, Walker Waste.

 

Starting ambitiously with ten dumpsters and a single truck, Walker Waste has now expanded to a growing fleet, meeting rising demand. Benjamin sheds light on his journey, the role of mentors, the challenges of choosing the right financial tools, and the joy of seeing tangible results from his dedicated efforts. Join us in exploring his entrepreneurial journey and how FINSYNC played a part in his story.

 

Tell me about your company and what inspired you to start.

My company is a waste distribution company. I take dumpsters to customers, new construction homes, businesses, or renovations. I charge the customer to rent these dumpsters and for my services. 

 

I had someone like a second dad to me; he started one of these dumpster businesses back home, where I’m from. I saw first hand and knew that it would be beneficial. So I saved up my money, talked it over with my family, and decided to try it out.

 

I started with 10 dumpsters and 1 truck; now, I have 35 dumpsters and 3 trucks. I need more dumpsters every day. We are very blessed and just put our heads down and work hard. 

 

What’s the best thing about being a small business owner? 

I like the flexibility and that I can see the results of my hard work. 

 

What prompted you to start using FINSYNC?

I built a relationship with the people I bank with. They went through some of my price sheets and suggested I try FINSYNC. I thought, as long as it is easy, let’s try it!

 

What about the FINSYNC Platform that attracted you to it?

The biggest thing that attracted me to the system was I got tired if I had an issue with Quickbooks. I would call the helpdesk, and there was often a language barrier that was very difficult. I know when I called FINSYNC, I would get someone right away, usually within 30-60 seconds, and they would be in the US, probably Atlanta. As long as I can get someone to help me so that I can communicate, this is why I switched to FINSYNC.

 

What are the biggest features FINSYNC has compared to Quickbooks?  

I like the ease of us sending out the invoices. It is very easy to navigate through. We know that sending invoices is the best part of the week, and FINSYNC makes it easy. 

 

What financial institutions do you have connected to FINSYNC?

FNBC in Jonesboro. 

 

What advice do you have for those thinking about starting their own business?

Don’t be scared. I am a little timid; sometimes, I wish I wasn’t and would jump in a little deeper. Fortunately, my father-in-law is good about being aggressive. So I know when someone is willing to give you money, figure out how to take it. 

 

FINSYNC allows you to run your business on One Platform. You can send and receive payments, process payroll, automate accounting, and manage cash flow. To learn more about how we can help your business start, scale, and succeed, contact us today.

 

In today’s digital age, selecting the right financial management software is crucial for small business owners. The proper tools can streamline processes, improve financial visibility, and ultimately contribute to the growth and success of the business. However, with many options available, it can take time to determine which platform best suits your needs.

 

Two platforms stand out among the various accounting platforms: QuickBooks Online and FINSYNC. As popular choices for small business owners, both provide a range of features designed to simplify financial management. However, through a closer examination, it becomes evident that one may offer distinct advantages over the other.

 

Overview of Quickbooks Online

 

QuickBooks Online, a product of Intuit, has long been a player in the world of financial software for small businesses. It offers functionalities ranging from invoice generation to payroll management, tax filing, and expense tracking. With a long-standing presence in the market, it has become a go-to choice for many small businesses. 

 

However, users have received growing feedback about the platform’s complexity and less-than-stellar customer service. This opens up an opportunity for an emerging player to deliver a more user-friendly and supportive alternative.

 

Overview of FINSYNC

 

FINSYNC is a platform that provides an all-in-one solution for small businesses. While FINSYNC also offers features akin to QuickBooks Online, such as cloud-based invoicing, payroll, and cash flow management, it sets itself apart with its emphasis on a user-friendly interface, superior customer service, and a partner network accessible to all business owners.

 

FINSYNC’s partner network offers a space where entrepreneurs can quickly find an accountant for tax assistance, a banker for loan applications, or an insurance agent for investment protection. This positions FINSYNC as a platform that delivers financial solutions and adds extra value in a way that QuickBooks does not.

 

The FINSYNC software takes pride in being more than just a tool; it is a partner committed to the success of small businesses.

 

In the next section, we will dive deeper into why small business owners increasingly favor FINSYNC over QuickBooks Online, focusing on real experiences and feedback from users who have made the switch. 

 

Testimonials and Success Stories

 

Banking

 

Assistant Branch Manager Heidee Draney holds the bond between FINSYNC and institutions such as WaFd Bank in high regard. She finds profound satisfaction in fostering connections with small-scale entrepreneurs and empowering them with essential tools.

 

 “My honest opinion is, I believe that every business can actually benefit from FINSYNC.”

 

“The pricing for Quickbooks is significantly higher compared to FINSYNC. This cost-effectiveness is another advantage, particularly for businesses in small towns looking to save money.”

 

“The best thing I like about FINSYNC is the accounting and cash flow management. These tools are incredibly valuable for small businesses.”

 

Value

 

Bob Hardy oversees accounting duties for Grace Abounds Rescue Mission and is keenly aware of the budget constraints inherent to non-profit operations. So discovering a platform like FINSYNC, which offers comprehensive services similar to QuickBooks but at a more budget-friendly price, is a significant win for his organization.

 

“One of the most important benefits we get from our FINSYNC relationship is the handling of our payroll and all federal and state payroll withholding and tax reporting. With the FINSYNC payroll processing system, it is incredibly easy and inexpensive!”

 

Hardy speaks highly of FINSYNC in terms of customer support: “The FINSYNC customer support is another strength for us. They are very effective and patient in helping us get set up and use the system. Since then, we have had very few issues, but if we do, they respond very quickly.”

 

Service

 

Sandi Purinton understands the value of exceptional customer service deeply. In the event of any software or financial management difficulties, she is reassured that FINSYNC’s support is merely a phone call, email, or chat away. This immediate assistance allows her to concentrate on the core operations of her bustling insurance enterprise, The Insurance Connection.

 

“As a business owner who actually works in the business, to have customer service on the phone when I have a question is a tremendous resource for me.”

 

“I was pleased with the support I got from FINSYNC. Your customer service manually updated items that weren’t syncing. It was really stressful, but when I reached out to FINSYNC, you were phenomenal!”

 

Payments

 

Siedah Mitchum wears many hats as an author, business mentor, and proud owner of Her Love Collections, LLC, a flourishing retail business with two locations in New York. In running her vendor store, she coordinates with around 80 vendors daily, making the transparency and ease of tracking payments and transactions a critical aspect of her operations. Since she embraced FINSYNC as a payment tool for her business, her experience has been overwhelmingly positive.

 

Siedah particularly praises FINSYNC’s invoicing feature: “The invoicing has been amazing! I can create templates and have everything pre-done, setting dates so the invoices go out automatically. I can also see when the payments begin to come out of my bank account. I also like the calendar, so I can see what days I can expect the money in or out.” 

 

The ease and efficiency have proven to be a triumph for Siedah, allowing her to focus on other critical aspects of her business.

 

Payroll

 

Elaine Smith-Poyourow is the driving force behind TLT – Tomorrow’s Leaders Today, an organization dedicated to equipping the younger generation with the necessary tools to navigate contemporary societies successfully. Managing payroll efficiently, including automatic deductions for state and federal taxes, was a critical need for her organization to avoid time-consuming calculations each pay period. Sandi’s experience with FINSYNC has been nothing short of positive in addressing this need.

 

“We are not in a position to start taking on payroll and tax reporting requirements. But this had to be done, and FINSYNC is a cost-effective way of doing that.”

 

“FINSYNC has allowed us to be more efficient and succeed without having a dedicated accounting role. It is just the push of the button at the end of the month, and payroll is done.”

 

Final Thoughts

 

It is clear that FINSYNC goes beyond merely a tool; it is a partner committed to the success of small businesses. This dedication to support and an all-in-one, user-friendly solution makes FINSYNC a superior alternative to traditional options like QuickBooks Online.

 

But don’t just trust our words. See the difference for yourself. FINSYNC now enables new users to utilize its payments and cash flow management features for free indefinitely. This commitment to user experience allows you to grasp firsthand and revolutionize your financial management. Make this stride towards better financial control, efficiency, and success with FINSYNC today.

 

Aaron Gogain’s journey has always been fueled by a deep-rooted passion for helping others. His compassion is heartfelt and sincere. It was something that came naturally to him. However, as he grew older, he wrestled with a difficult question. How could he turn this desire to help others into a meaningful career that would allow him to earn a living?

 

Amidst this uncertainty, the Duncan Graves & Lancaster Morgan Funeral Home opportunity emerged almost serendipitously. Running his own funeral home was never part of Aaron’s initial plans, yet it perfectly aligned with his empathetic nature and his desire to make a difference.

 

Eventually, Aaron discovered an essential partnership with FINSYNC. This intuitive digital platform has served as a reliable partner, providing him with much-needed assistance in managing the financial side of his business and guiding him through the intricate world of accounting. 

 

Tell me about your company and what inspired you to start.

My background is in accounting and finance, and I was looking at new investment opportunities. Someone in my network asked me if I would consider buying a mortuary. My wife was able to identify my compassion for people and desire to serve the community, which correlated well with this industry. 

 

This company was established in 1898. We have 3 different locations, and we recently completed our second successful year of ownership. I am happy to steward this unique opportunity.

 

What are some of the challenges you’ve faced as a small business owner?

It is a very demanding line of work from an emotional capacity. One of the challenges I face myself, and for my staff, is not to be consumed by the emotionality of the families we serve. It is hard at times because we give everything we have to our grieving families and to the communities we serve. There are times of the year that are very difficult and very busy. It is important for us as a whole to still be able to spend time with our own families as well.

 

We have different seasons that produce a challenge for us. Right now is a time of year we refer to as Spring Burials. We are in Northern Maine, and for six months of the year, the ground is covered in snow. So those that have passed during the winter, we provide services during the spring. There are multiple services every day for a few months. 

 

What prompted you to start using FINSYNC?

It was actually a relationship. My uncle is FINSYNC’s Payroll President, Dave Olsen. Relationships are important. FINSYNC has a good team that listens to its customers, tackles problems they might be having, and is willing to make the necessary adjustments. 

 

What are the biggest benefits your business has experienced using FINSYNC?

One of my favorite features is the ease of seeing my daily cash and where I sit. I can assess where I am and how I am doing; it makes it easy to keep up to date with all the transactions coming in and out. 

 

Have you used FINSYNC Customer Service?

Clark is excellent and has taken care of me with any issues that might arise. It feels very collaborative like we are making the system better together. Their willingness to make it work and continuously improve the FINSYNC accounting platform impressed us during the implementation process. I appreciate that I am being heard.

 

What financial institutions do you have connected to FINSYNC?

Kenyatta Trust is a smaller, local bank I use. I also use Spark Credit Card that auto-syncs with my FINSYNC profile. This sync saves me time because all I have to do is classify the transactions rather than input them. 

 

How does having FINSYNC connected to your accounts make your business life easier?

In the beginning, FINSYNC didn’t have the ability to do check writing. When I show up at a cemetery or a church, I need to be able to hand them a check. This was something that FINSYNC listened to, and the developers worked through so that I could have this feature. 

 

I currently have three W2 employees and quite a few contractors on our payroll. Everyone uses the timekeeping tool, making it easier for them and me. I know what is happening and don’t have to talk to them before I approve.  

 

What’s the best thing about being a small business owner? 

The biggest benefits are being able to make an impact in people’s lives and in the community. As well as have the resources and ability to do more than I could prior to being a business owner. Blessing someone on my team outside my team and making an impact on others has been the most important reward. 

 

What advice do you have for those thinking about starting their own business?

Be prepared to sacrifice, work hard, and make an impact in people’s lives. 

 

FINSYNC allows you to run your business on One Platform. You can send and receive payments, process payroll, automate accounting, and manage cash flow. To learn more about how we can help your business start, scale, and succeed, contact us today.

 

Heidee Draney, an Assistant Branch Manager at WaFd Bank, has a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities small businesses face. Her branch is situated on the Nevada-Arizona border, a location that experiences high traffic during the winter months and slows down during the scorching summer months.

 

With a background as a small business owner, Heidee understands the pulse of businesses and has honed her intuition to anticipate their needs. Through asking questions, she guides her clients to make informed decisions, thereby building solid and trust-based relationships. 

 

Below is Heidee’s WaFd Journey as she shares her insights and explains why she endorses the FINSYNC Platform to her business clients for its ability to improve their cash flow management.

 

What do you enjoy the most about your job?

 

Working for WaFd Bank has been an excellent experience, mainly because I don’t work evenings, weekends, or holidays, affording me more time with my family.

 

Additionally, I appreciate the opportunity to meet new people and simplify their lives by identifying their banking needs, ones they might not have recognized initially. This includes areas like additional financing, long-term savings, and the recommendation of FINSYNC to manage their businesses to save them time and money.

 

Creating these relationships with my clients is something I enjoy doing. When you love what you do, you aren’t working; you are enjoying life.

 

What is your favorite thing about being on the WaFd team?

 

I love the branch where I work, which makes it fun to come to work. We are all really close and willing to help each other whatever we are doing. This makes for an easygoing day and takes the stress out of life. WaFd is a fantastic company for which to work.

 

How do you identify business owners that may be a good match for FINSYNC?

 

My honest opinion is that every business can actually benefit from FINSYNC—it’s just a matter of determining the right time for them. I usually find potential clients by driving around town or checking government pages for newly activated business licenses. However, the biggest method is by speaking to our current clients and uncovering what they might need, even if they’re unaware of it themselves. 

 

Sometimes, business owners don’t know what to ask. There is so much to know. So it is my job to ask and identify areas where my expertise can make a significant impact. In doing so, I can reveal which products will best benefit them.

 

What is your approach like?

 

I enjoy discovering how owners currently manage their businesses. By asking specific questions, I can gauge their business’s stage and evaluate their general management efficiency.

 

Do you think your customers struggle with other software solutions, such as Quickbooks?

 

Having previously used QuickBooks, it is easy for me to be able to revert back and determine if FINSYNC is a good fit for my clients. QuickBooks can be extremely overwhelming unless you have used it for years. When I first had the first demo with FINSYNC, I realized that it takes the guesswork out and is much easier to use than QuickBooks.

 

Additionally, the pricing for QuickBooks is significantly higher compared to FINSYNC. This cost-effectiveness is another advantage, particularly for businesses in small towns looking to save money.

 

I’ve heard success stories from my business clients about the time and effort FINSYNC has saved them. By learning the platform, they’ve been able to devote more time to their businesses. As one of my clients put it, “Without FINSYNC, I wouldn’t know what I was doing; now I can see I am going to survive the summer.”

 

What do you like best about FINSYNC?

 

The best thing I like about FINSYNC is the accounting and cash flow management. These tools are incredibly valuable for small businesses, providing real-time cash flow updates and projected income. It makes it easy for businesses to see if they can survive during the summer months. 

 

Here in Nevada, the summertime is our slowest season. Our snowbirds leave, and our accounts can decrease by up to a third. This is a retirement community, and many who own second homes leave when the weather becomes too hot. It’s reassuring to know that FINSYNC can help small businesses navigate and survive these challenging times.

 

What other “banking tools” could we provide to help you succeed?

 

I can’t really think of any, to be honest. FINSYNC has so many resource tools, not only for the client but for the bankers as well. I love the new Partner Portal. It makes it super simple to be able to log in and send our new referral videos that would benefit them. 

 

FINSYNC allows entrepreneurs to run their businesses on One Platform. They can send and receive payments, process payroll, automate accounting, and manage cash flow. To learn more about how we can help businesses start, scale, and succeed, contact us today.

The journey of entrepreneurship is seldom a straight or predictable one. Founders sometimes find their businesses evolving in ways they did not initially envision, and success often hinges on embracing opportunities as they arise. This beautifully sums up the entrepreneurial journey of Pat Tuure, the owner of Out There Web Designs.

 

Pat’s business story is not one that was carefully planned; instead, it’s a testament to the power of seizing the moment. A pivotal factor in Pat’s success narrative is the role played by FINSYNC. This digital platform has been instrumental in helping him manage and streamline his operations, providing a robust foundation upon which his dream continues to flourish.

 

Tell me about your company and what inspired you to start.

I started Out There Web Designs in 2010 and pretty much fell into it. I had a friend of mine that asked me to build a website. I had no idea how to at the time. I said yes, figured out how to build it, and never stopped learning from there. A few years ago, I started bringing on other team members. Now I have two W2 employees and four contractors. 

 

What’s the best thing about being a small business owner? 

I set my own schedule. You have many responsibilities as a business owner but also a lot of freedom. If I want to walk away for an afternoon, the work will still be there, but I can still walk away and take breaks when needed. 

 

What are some of the challenges you’ve faced as a small business owner?

The biggest challenges I run across are cash flow management and stabilizing the business in order to scale. 

 

What prompted you to start using FINSYNC?

My credit card processor, Jeremy Felix with BancCard, recommended FINSYNC to me. After the third time, Quickbooks Online raised their rates, I decided I was done. I asked Jeremy if he knew of another system. I also wanted to use a platform that included payroll in an all-in-one solution. 

What about the FINSYNC Platform attracted you to it?

FINSYNC is all-in-one, includes payroll, and the price is affordable. I own a small business, so cash flow management is always a concern. 

 

What financial institutions do you have connected to FINSYNC?

Clearent is my credit card processor through Swipe Central. The other two banks I use are Chase and a local credit union called Kemba. 

 

How does having FINSYNC connected to your accounts make your business life easier?

I use the income report because it has some customization that I can do. I have also used your customer service. Clark is great. I only had one issue with tax withholding, and he solved it quickly.

 

What are the biggest benefits your business has experienced using FINSYNC?

Not having to worry about payroll is a big benefit. I just have to make sure the timecards are entered correctly and everything is covered, then we are good. For the most part, Payroll works smoothly. Once it is set up, you pretty much don’t have to worry about it.  

 

What advice do you have for those thinking about starting their own business?

Learn everything you can. You need to have an accounting system in place because an Excel spreadsheet will not be enough. You need to have better tracking of your accounting and see a decent income statement so you know where you stand. As you grow, you want to hire an accountant and hire a coach. When you start growing, these are a must. 

 

FINSYNC allows you to run your business on One Platform. You can send and receive payments, process payroll, automate accounting, and manage cash flow. To learn more about how we can help your business start, scale, and succeed, contact us today.

Education is often considered the foundation of our future. Many believe it is vital to provide young individuals with the necessary skills and resources for success. Our highlighted entrepreneur suggests that traditional school methods need to adequately address essential life skills like entrepreneurship, team leadership, and advanced learning opportunities.

Elaine Smith-Poyourow established the nonprofit organization TLT – Tomorrow’s Leaders Today. She strongly advocates for the importance of empowering future generations with the basic skills required to thrive in the modern world. Elaine’s leadership has made a significant impact on the lives of many young people and is instrumental in shaping a brighter future for the next generation.

 

What prompted you to start using FINSYNC?

We were working with First United Bank, and we started the Payroll process. As a non-profit, we only have one paid employee. So, we were looking for affordability, convenience, and efficiency, and FINSYNC was recommended for it. 

 

What about the FINSYNC Platform attracted you to it?

David with First United Bank recommended it to us. We were not in a position to start taking on payroll and tax reporting requirements. But this had to be done, and this was a cost-effective way of doing that. 

 

Tell me about your company and what inspired you to start.

TLT – Tomorrow’s Leaders Today, is a 501C3 nonprofit organization. We are dedicated to developing youth leaders through education, collaboration, and mentorship with community and business leaders for the collective benefit of both the students and their communities. 

 

This started with me going through leadership classes and asking, “Why aren’t the youth being taught leadership disciplines in school?” Since COVID, it has morphed into more. Not only do we have leadership classes, but we have real-life skills, soft skills, higher education, and career readiness training. We support ages 13 and up for any of our classes and our free online library.

 

Additionally, we have an intensive 20-position internship program that covers everything from accounting to website development for ages 15 to adults for those living in Texas. This program runs three times a year, and it is our most popular program. 

 

What are some of the challenges you’ve faced as a small business owner?

Getting the awareness out there that we offer these opportunities. Also, getting people involved to support us and to bring this program further into the community.

 

What’s the best thing about being a small business owner? 

The reward of helping all these young and upcoming leaders of tomorrow be successful. Helping them get the skills they need to complete higher education or be self-sufficient and find a good job if they choose not to pursue higher education. 

 

What are the biggest benefits your business has experienced using FINSYNC?

The biggest benefit of using FINSYNC is the transparency and accountability and knowing that we are following all the regulations, FDIC, and IRS rules. It has been easy to be on top of all that. 

 

How does having FINSYNC connected to your accounts make your business life easier?

We are supported by volunteers. FINSYNC has allowed us to be more efficient and succeed without having a dedicated accounting role. It is just the push of the button at the end of the month, and payroll is done. 

 

What advice do you have for those thinking about owning their own business?

You have to look into the IRS laws along with local and state laws in your area. You need to research who your competitors are going to be and what makes you unique. If you are going to hire a staff, you need to plan for their salaries and taxes. Most of all, how are you going to process payroll? 

 

FINSYNC allows you to run your business on One Platform. You can send and receive payments, process payroll, automate accounting, and manage cash flow. To learn more about how we can help your business start, scale, and succeed, contact us today.