Great Practices: The Mindset of a Leader

Fuoco has also invested in outside consultants to enhance SEO (search engine optimization), develop a dedicated blog, and move all paper-based client communications to a convenient and green online ‘viewer’ format.

“All of these changes will increase our presence, while also improving our image as a tech-savvy firm,” Fuoco said. But change will not stop there. He is also committed to providing clients with practical resources and tools that offer ultimate convenience.

“Our main focus is always the client. We want their experience with us to be consistently positive, which is why the new website will host private portals that allow clients convenient online access to their financial documents on a 24/7 basis. We are also implementing a section on our site exclusively to house helpful client resources,” Fuoco explained.

The firm also recognizes the need to continually educate its clients. “We plan to launch a blog and distribute articles that offer timely, helpful information — updating them on tax law changes and offering tips and tactics for business success, to name only a few.”

The vision is big, but with Lou Fuoco leading the charge, no doubt it will come to fruition.

It’s All in the Planning

Change starts with a vision and a solid plan. The Fuoco Group seems to have all their ducks neatly in a row as they look to 2011 as the year of great change. Adoption of a SaaS platform for the firm’s mission-critical software, a new website, blogs, social media sites, SEO, and a slew of other client-service enhancing initiatives will keep Fuoco Group in the vanguard of progressive firms.

Change is ever-present. There’s no denying it. What is it that thought leaders say? “Firms are only ever one new technology away from being outdated.” This is why it is so important that firms stay ahead of technology trends, work consistently to identify new innovations and best practices, and maintain a clear vision for ongoing success and growth. It’s all in the planning, and Lou Fuoco knows that better than anyone.

Kristy is a partner in RootWorks Communications (RootWorks.com) and president of SAS Communications 360 (SAScommunications360.com) — firms dedicated to providing practice management education, branding, marketing, and public relations services to the accounting profession. She is also a professor of English and marketing at University of Phoenix and Cleary University. You can reach her at kristy.short@cpapracticeadvisor.com.