Digna Cueto knew exactly what he left behind: two decades of success in corporate trade, executive positions in recognized fashion brands, and the security of a consolidated career. What he did not know was how his brave decision to undertake as the owner of a small business and open a Tax preparation franchise atx in Woodsis, NY, in 2018, would transform not only its professional career, but also its community.
Like many new business owners, Cueto faced several challenges, such as customer search, management of their time, and the need to adjust their financial planning. However, I didn’t know where to go to get that support. It was then that he attended a Chase For Business event led by the Senior Business Consultant, Franco Riofrio. At that time, he instantly recognized how the program could benefit his company. “I knew it should be part of that program,” he said.
This free program connects business owners with Senior Business Consultants of Chase, who are dedicated to advising small business owners. To qualify, the owners must have been operating for at least two years and generate minimum annual sales of $ 100,000. It is important to note that the program is open to both entrepreneurs who are Chase clients and those who are not. “We want to work with companies that have already validated their concept and are in growth phase,” explains Franco. “Our goal is to help them climb and reach their goals.”
Once registered, business owners closely collaborate with consultants in a deep analysis of operational management, technology optimization, increased efficiency and resource management.
Cash flow management is another central aspects of the program. “The cash flow should be managed and predicted correctly,” explains Franco, who helps companies understand payment terms, optimize reservations and prepare for growth expenses. The consultants then guide entrepreneurs through various access options to capital, from traditional loans to alternative financing sources, such as financial institutions for community development and subsidies that they could not know.
The program approach is then oriented to business development. At this stage, consultants create personalized growth strategies and provide support in key tasks, from obtaining certifications to the development of marketing plans.
Finally, according to Franco, what distinguishes this program is the creation of a reliable network of advisors. Franco and his team of consultants take advantage of the professional network of Chase to connect business owners with other qualified experts who can support their long -term growth, such as accountants and financial advisors.
During the four -month commitment, the owners receive up to 10 custom consulting sessions, together with work notebooks and practical exercises designed to develop growth strategies that are actionable.
The integration of the program with the complete suite of financial solutions of Chase guarantees that companies have access to the necessary tools and resources. In addition, the Senior Business Consultants organize Networking events, where the participants of the Coaching for impact program of Chase for Business can be known, sharing successful strategies and, in many cases, finding ways to collaborate.
Coaching for Impact helped Cueto implement two key changes in his business. First, it established processes that optimized daily operations. “We develop clear processes, such as the creation of a weekly review system for tasks and communications with customers,” he explained. “This allowed me to operate more efficiently and focus on tasks of greater value, such as strategy and commitment to customers, instead of being trapped in administrative work.”
Second, Franco guided it in the use of specific industry tools and helped establish SMART objectives (specific, measurable, relevant, relevant and with time limit) for growth, such as implementing digital marketing tools that optimized their website and increased online traffic. As a result, Cueto could step back and analyze the general panorama of where his business was directed.
This change of mentality was crucial when preparing for its certification exams as a registered agent, which would allow it to handle taxes for both individuals and companies. Because he had established a solid team and efficient processes, he was able to move away from the daily operations to focus on this strategic priority.
Although Cueto is proud that the Atax office in Woodsis has three full -time employees and doubles his staff during the tax season, his greatest achievement transcends these numbers. Its tax school program, which enables tax and Spanish tax trainers, has transformed their business beyond being a local employer, making it a community change catalyst. Connecticut and Pennsylvania students travel to attend classes, and hundreds of graduates have launched their careers thanks to this program.
In other words, under the leadership of Cueto, Atax Woodsis not only prepares tax statements, but also preparing its neighbors for careers that support families, especially within the Latin community. “That has become my biggest passion,” he said.
Looking ahead, Cueto plans to expand its business to several offices and explore other ventures. The tools and trust that he acquired through Coaching for Impact has shown that these goals are available and that success is not only about managing daily operations, but also building systems that allow you to step back and plan growth, without losing sight of the quality of the service. This is the key to what all business owners seek: climb.
“Sometimes we obsess so much to work in our business that we forget to work on it,” said Cueto. The transformation has not been easy, but it has been worth it. Now, he is directing a business that not only serves customers, but also elevates the community. As his coach, Franco says, real success is not measured only in business achievements, but in the impact one has on the community where he operates. That is the true measure of success.
For Franco, the impact of the program goes beyond numbers and strategies. “I have nothing more than respect for the creative mind of a business owner,” he said. “Anyone who has the value of devising an idea, a concept, a service, and says: ‘I will make it come true,’ it deserves respect. It is a pleasure to see these businesses to succeed and be part of that story.”
For more information, visit Chase.com/coacachingForimpact.
The information provided is only for discussion purposes. Participation in the coaching for impact program is subject to availability. You should carefully consider your needs and objectives before making any decision and consult with the right professional.
The testimonies of this page or provided through linked videos are only opinions, findings or experiences of our clients and not JPMorgan Chase Bank, Na or any of its affiliates. These opinions, findings or experiences may not be representative of what all customers can achieve. JPMorgan Chase Bank, NA or any of its affiliates are not responsible for decisions taken or actions carried out based on the information of the testimonies provided.
JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, NA MEMBER OF THE FIC.
© 2024 JPMorgan Chase & Co.
