If you're a sole proprietor, you might believe running a business is a solo endeavor. But as you grow and expand, you'll learn this is not the case. There are certain aspects of a business many leaders need outside help with managing — such as accounting, legal processes or human resources — because they might not have the necessary skill, or they might simply lack the time.
When you're entrusting such important parts of your business to a third party, it's absolutely critical to find the right fit. To help local business owners find and evaluate vendors in the Dallas area, we asked a panel of Forbes Dallas Council members how they recommend finding trusted partners. Their best answers are below.
Members share their best advice for finding reliable business vendors in Dallas.
1. Seek recommendations from your peers.
2. Tap into the networks of people with shared experiences.
3. Ask your social media connections.
4. Do your research after receiving personal referrals.
As CFOs, we are continually helping our clients find new bookkeepers and accountants. Start with a personal referral, then do your due diligence. With a bookkeeper, this means calling the referral's accountant and seeing if they like the work product. Interview at least three vendors, and always go with the one you like best. You have to work with them, so you need to have a sense of connection. - Brooke Lively, Cathedral Capital, Inc.
5. Use Facebook's 'Recommendations' feature.