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, I believe 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.

When starting a business, ambition isn’t everything. You must cultivate and understand your ‘why’ or your passion. Finding success will often prove difficult without a passion because that unwavering enthusiasm will give you the determination to make your dream come true, no matter what obstacles arise on your journey toward achieving greatness. With every new venture, it pays off to ask yourself: What is my purpose?

 

Jeannine Breedlove had a vision, which she put into action with her unstoppable passion for saving lives. Bob Hardy shares the incredible story of how Jeannine created Grace Abounds Rescue Mission, an influential non-profit striving to do good in this world every single day. 

What prompted you to start using FINSYNC?

We were looking at buying software and using local bookkeepers, but Lead Institute was a FINSYNC customer before they merged with Orchard, a faith-based non-profit in Atlanta. Orchard advises those who are interested in starting similar non-profits, and eventually, they ended up recommending this platform for our organization.

 

Do you have a financial institution connected to FINSYNC?

Most of our transactions go through our synced business checking account. Jeannine will go into the platform and categorize the transactions. This automatically syncs and is very simple to use.

 

Tell me about your company.

I am the Treasurer of a local non-profit organization called Grace Abounds Rescue Mission, which was started by Jeannine Breedlove. In the summer of 2021, Jeannine had a secure job as a children’s ministry director. She got to know one of the kid’s mothers that were involved with the ministry and were fighting a battle with drug addiction. This young mother was in a terrible cycle of going to rehab and then using drugs again over and over. Sadly, this woman was in a fatal traffic accident that cost her her life and left her children without support. 

Jeannine decided to do something about this. So she quit her day job without a life jacket and lived off her savings, eventually starting Grace Abounds. This is a two-year residential life and spiritual recovery program for women in the county. We now have a nice house in town, and the women are doing great. 

 

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

In the beginning, the challenge was not to reinvent the wheel. Jeannine had a friend in California who ran a similar program, and she created Grace Abounds, which was similar to what was working for them. 

Fundraising is always a challenge for non-profits. Unfortunately, the need for support is there in our community. We have slowly created recognition. Jeannine has given us legs, and we are now thriving. We are very grateful to Jeannine and this ministry. 

 

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

Simplicity. I am not an accountant by training, but FINSYNC was easy to navigate credit and debits and a financial management system. We found it to be very time efficient and easy to use. 

 

Have you utilized FINSYNC’s customer service?

Yes, your 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. 

 

How has FINSYNC saved you time?

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!

 

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

If anyone is thinking about starting a faith-based non-profit, check out Orchard. Between FINSYNC and Orchard, we are able to touch the lives of people directly in our community. 

 

 

With FINSYNC, your payment transactions are updated in real-time as you run your business. Take control of your cash flow management today!

Customer success stories are an essential marketing tool for any business. They provide insight into customer experiences, demonstrate customer trust and loyalty, and can showcase customer advocates who genuinely believe in the potential of a product or service. 

 

Learn how to unlock powerful insights for your business by leveraging customer success stories. This article demonstrates the advantages of weaving these testimonials into your marketing strategy and gives step-by-step guidance on creating ones that drive conversions and build strong relationships with customers.

 

Advantages

Customers have an intimate knowledge of a product or service and can provide valuable insights beyond what a business can offer. As such, obtaining a customer success story is a powerful marketing strategy. Here are some compelling reasons why you should strive to create these today.

 

Building trust

Many customers want proof that a product or service can help them achieve their desired success. For this, customer success stories can be invaluable in building trust. By highlighting how your product or service has helped other customers, you show potential customers that your offering is worth their investment and provides tangible results. This serves to bolster customer confidence and drive more people to sign up for your product or service. 

Demonstrating value

What are the product benefits? How will it make your life easier? What perks are associated with the purchase? The answers to these questions can help convince potential customers to choose your business over competitors. Demonstrating the level of value shows how a particular product or service has positively impacted different customers. 

Humanizing your brand

To truly capture customer interest, it helps to humanize your brand. Crafting testimonials that feature real people and their experiences with your product can help bridge this connection. This effective method makes customer engagement more personal and genuine. Such stories put a face and identity to the customer journey of using your brand. 

Moreover, these customer stories build trust around your brand by making it more relatable and highlighting individual achievements in real-life scenarios. A customer-led approach is sure to attract potential customers, solidifying loyalty and helping to extend the reach of your business further.

Generating publicity

As a customer-focused business, you must let your audience know when there have been successes and victories. After all, customer loyalty is the basis of any successful business. Posting customer success stories on your website and social media is a great way to generate publicity and attract new clients. It shows that your services achieve the desired results, promote customer satisfaction, and can expand brand awareness.

Getting Started

• Tap into the power of word-of-mouth marketing by inquiring with your current customers about their experiences. Start out with a customer survey and ask your users if they would be willing to do an interview. Or sometimes, a simple email or post on LinkedIn could make it easy to start a conversation. Remember, you are also helping them by boosting their brand and potentially increasing site traffic.
• Before you spread the good news of a customer success story, remember to get permission first. This safeguards both sides and ensures everyone is on the same page. 
• Consider offering incentives such as discounts or freebies for customers participating in your testimonial program. The goals are to encourage more participation and increase engagement levels.  
• Crafting customer stories with an emphasis on success makes customers feel valued and presents potential customers with a relatable vision of what they can achieve. By spotlighting the product/service’s impact instead of simply providing facts or features, you create engaging narratives that inspire others to reach their goals.
• Consider collecting video testimonials from happy customers. Showcase the voices of your customers and spread a message that truly resonates.
• Feature your customer stories on your digital platforms – blogs, social media, email newsletters, and websites. This will help spread the word to both existing and future customers. 

 

Conclusion

With your customers’ success stories, you could unlock a powerful tool for your business to help grow and retain long-term relationships with new and current patrons. When done right, these tales can draw in more leads while creating loyalty amongst those already working alongside you. 

Take time to develop engaging narratives showcasing how past clients have succeeded through using your products or services. Reap this vital reward by beginning to leverage customer success stories today.

 

Try FINSYNC’s accounting software with no upfront cost. The all-in-one platform allows you to create, review, and make transactions while simplifying your cash flow management.

 

Dianne Pasiemiak is a WaFd Banker based in Las Vegas who focuses on small business support. For Dianne, providing this service is more than just a job; it’s a passion project that involves helping the entrepreneurs of her beloved city. As an avid outdoorswoman, Dianne takes full advantage of all the natural charms Las Vegas offers. At the same time, connecting business owners with products and services that WaFd Bank utilizes to help small businesses establish and grow.

In particular, she recently met with Caked Las Vegas owner Ricky Gudino. She presented him with an opportunity to take his business to the next level by introducing him to FINSYNC. An all-in-one financial platform engineered for effortless invoicing and accounting processes.

 

 

Without an efficient digital invoicing system, Ricky’s shop experienced a lot of difficulties. From keeping track of orders to delivering cakes for wedding celebrations that had already been canceled weeks before. They needed help! That is why Dianne recommended they switch from their previous paper-based payment processes to FINSYNC and ensure smooth success with each customer experience.

Managing money can be one of the trickiest parts of running a business, but with FINSYNC, business owners no longer need to worry about keeping track of their accounts. Automated payment reminders allow entrepreneurs to stay on top of due dates, ensuring straightforward transactions and timely payments. Managing cash flow has never been so easy; just a few clicks and owners can process payments online with minimum effort.

 

 

When Ricky found FINSYNC, he was able to leverage the all-in-one platform to automate his most tedious tasks and customer payments, which saved him a significant amount of time and money. Furthermore, the access to real-time financial information that FINSYNC provided enabled Ricky to make quicker and more accurate decisions when it came to managing his finances, helping him optimize his resources to help ensure prosperity in the long term.

Best of all, Ricky no longer has to wait for customers to pay him. FINSYNC’s CollectEarly™ helps take the hassle out of getting paid and lets Ricky focus on expanding his business. With CollectEarly, Ricky no longer needs to worry about when his customers will pay him; he can have the money in hand almost instantly. As more businesses discover the convenience of FINSYNC’s CollectEarly system, cash flow management is becoming easier than ever before.

 

 

The next time you are in Vegas, visit Caked, and order custom cakes, gourmet cupcakes, desserts, and so much more for any occasion. Drawing in some top A-list celebrities like J-Lo and Lil Wayne, everything is made fresh with extreme attention to detail and delivered straight to your door. So if you’re looking for something unique for your next celebration or like indulging in some yummy goodness, visit Caked today.

 

 

Take your business to the next level, and check out the FINSYNC Resources page. With a few helpful tips and tricks, you could be one step closer to having your success story featured.