Answers to some of the more frequent questions asked by our clients are as follows;
Q - How do we determine if we really need Horizon CFO Services as a member of our team?
A - Do you have relationships with bankers, investors, partners, vendors, insurance companies or others? Every business needs the expertise and advice of a CFO. Having a CFO on your "staff" will impart confidence by not only the business owner that the data is being evaluated and presented correctly, but also every member of the group previously mentioned. Bankers especially have more confidence when a "finance professional" is associated with their clients, and negotiations for lines of credit usually go much better in this scenario.
Q - If we contact Horizon CFO Services to have a look at our Company, how does that process work?
A - When you contact Horizon CFO Services for an initial consultation, the first thing that will happen is that we will provide the client with a confidentiality agreement so there will be no issues with the sensitivity and security of the information shared. Then, a detailed discussion will be conducted with the owner or CEO to determine the areas most requiring assistance. Horizon CFO Services utilizes certain software to prepare an initial evaluation of the health and direction of the client. It is very important that the business owner or CEO and the financial professional at Horizon CFO Services both have a "positive chemistry" feeling so that the relationship may move forward with an excellent working relationship.
Q - How much does this initial consultation and evaluation cost?
A - The evaluation of the health of the client's business as well as the initial face-to-face meeting will be at no charge to the client.
Q - Horizon CFO Services is located in Georgia, but my business is located in Texas. How can this work?
A - Computer technology is a wonderful thing, especially related to the financial arena. Certain meetings such as the initial face-to-face and annual strategic planning meetings need to be accomplished at the client's location. Depending on the preferences of the client, additional monthly or quarterly meetings can be held at the client's location. We utilize "Go To Meeting" software for many meetings where the participants can communicate with each other and see the data being discussed. We offer the opportunity to dial-in directly to the client's computer to work with data or can provide a platform for the client on our own server. We will do whatever it takes to make sure our clients are satisfied with our services.
Q - How much does having a "shared CFO" on my company's staff cost?
A - Each client will have unique needs and desires for the extent of services which they require. In almost every case, after the work is completed to make the changes necessary in the areas of identified deficiency, the annual costs of Horizon CFO Services would be less than the client's cost for a full time accounting clerk. We tailor our services and subsequent costs to each client's needs.
Q - What if something comes up during the week where I need to ask questions of my "shared CFO"?
A - Part of the agreement between the client and Horizon CFO Services includes 24/7 contact through cell phone or e-mail. Naturally, in some cases such as if we are in a meeting, we may not be immediately available to answer a cell phone, but we do have a messaging service and will return all calls as soon as possible.