Whether you are planning to sell your accounting practice this year or 20 years from now, it is never too early to think about how your business is viewed by the outside world. After all, you never know when circumstances in life may change and continual improvement of your business image is something every successful CPA practice should cultivate. 
The best way to give your practice ‘curb appeal’ is to build a positive image within your local area. Here are some of the best ways to accomplish this:
Build Personal Relationships: The businesses and individuals you manage accounts for should be more than just clients and should be friends. The deeper the relationship you have with clients, the more likely you will have them for the long-term. Toward that end, it is important to take time to get to know each client personally and their business.
Find out their interests and what you have in common. Keep these in mind and when it comes time for birthday and holiday gifts, personalize them. Give gift certificates to their favorite restaurant or retail store, tickets for their favorite sports team, or a book they may like. If you treat your clients this way, you will set yourself apart from other firms and your clients will be far more likely to tell their friends and associates about you.
Ask for Client References: Personal references are among the best ways to add new clients and to ensure that the world knows what your current clients think of your practice. Always keep an updated list of references and post them on your website for other prospects to see. In addition, ask your satisfied clients for names of others that may benefit from your services.
Develop an Authoritative Online Presence: Many prospective clients use the Web to gain a better idea of what your business is all about. Today, having a website is not enough. You must have a site that is professionally designed, with content that speaks directly to your target market, and makes a compelling case for doing business with you.
Give Back to Your Community: Community involvement will keep your name in the front of the minds of people in your local area. Sponsor and participate in local charity, school, and sporting events. In addition, attend local Chamber of Commerce meetings and other business functions where you can network with professionals within your local community.
