Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Melson Tookes. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Melson, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. How has Covid changed your business model?
COVID-19 presented unprecedented challenges, but it also offered a unique opportunity for my accounting, tax, and business consulting firm (Goshen Consulting LLC) to flourish and thrive even further. Before the pandemic, we relied heavily on in-person meetings to build strong relationships with clients. As lockdowns ensued and social distancing became the norm, we were forced to pivot quickly. We embraced a virtual meeting strategy via Zoom, Google Meet and Microsoft Teams and transitioned our entire client engagement model online and by phone. This shift ensured our business continuity and unlocked new possibilities we hadn’t anticipated under the circumstances.
When we made the decision to embrace more of a virtual platform, the business broke free from the geographical constraints of the State of Maryland where we are based. We no longer served just our local area but connected with clients across the country. This transition broadened our reach and diversified our client base. The efficiency and convenience to conduct consultations via Zoom and related virtual technology platforms, attracted new clients who appreciated the flexibility and covenience under the circumstances. Impressed by our seamless adaptation and continued personalized service, our clients recommended us to their peers far and wide. This surge in word-of-mouth referrals further fueled our growth. COVID-19 initiated a transformation that expanded our horizons and strengthened our resilience far beyond what we imagined.
Melson, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
My name is Melson Tookes (professionally I am known as Mel). I am a financial and business advisory and consulting professional with over 25 years of experience in the accounting, auditing, and business consulting industry. My journey down this industry path began in high school when I took bookkeeping as an elective in my final semester of high school and discovered it perfectly fit my analytical and detail-oriented personality. I went on to study accounting and finance in college and had a lengthy career with the federal government as a government contract auditor and private sector as a government contract consultant. Over the years, I’ve consulted with a diverse range of clients, from small businesses, midsize companies, and even Fortune 500 corporations. My career path included significant roles within the federal government and public accounting firms, where I honed my skill sets and developed a comprehensive understanding of the accounting, tax, consulting and overall financial landscape.
Goshen Consulting LLC (founded in July 2019) offers a wide array of financial-related services to include accounting and bookkeeping, tax preparation and advisory, business consulting, retirement planning, life insurance, personal finance and budgeting, and credit repair and optimization. The name Goshen is a biblical name from Genesis 47:27 of the King James Version of the Bible which means a place of peace and wealth. This was also during the same time the Israelites were were held in bondage/slavery before the exodus (liberation) from Egypt. They found peace and favor with their enemy and were preserved while still enslaved. The irony of that concept deeply resonated with me. It also reminded me that you can flourish and thrive wherever you may find yourself in your life journey. It’s all about perception. Many clients may be lost in or struggle with their numerous business endeavors in an attempt to find their way to success. However, that is where Goshen steps in to fill that void, meet their needs, and bring peace to those various business situations.
We address key problems small business owners face such as proper business setup and structure, maintaining clean financials, optimal tax strategy and planning, and education about various business concepts and leverage through their business for maximum tax deductions under the law. What sets us apart is our genuine care and concern for small business owners. We ensure an integral, seamless, thorough, and meaningful client experience through proper planning, engagement, and follow-up. I take immense pride in the fact that my business has thrived for nearly five years, even while we weathered the challenges of the 2020-2021 COVID-19 pandemic.
We emerged stronger and more resilient which is a testament to our commitment and adaptability. Potential clients should be mindful that we genuinely care about their success and forward progression. Our company is dedicated to the support of their interests and to help them achieve their goals. We strive to be more than just a service provider; we aim to be a trusted and valued partner in their business journey.
Have you ever had to pivot?
In the summer of 2018, I faced a pivotal moment that tested my resolve and faith like never before. At that crossroad, I had to decide whether to leave my secure full-time, six-figure job or dive headfirst into entrepreneurship. The challenge was not just about career change; it was about pursuing my God-given destiny and purpose while I maintained my standard of living. The fear of the unknown was present, but the thought of unfulfillment in my current career path motivated me to take the leap.
I jumped feet first into this decision, despite all the fear and uncertainty I felt. This bold move set me on a five-year rollercoaster ride filled with emotional turmoil, financial loss, desertion, and many relationship upheavals (family and friends). I endured significant betrayal, delays, and countless other challenges that made me question if I made the right decision. Homelessness became a terribly harsh reality as I struggled to get my business off the ground. Despite these brutal experiences, my business continued to thrive AT THE SAME TIME. I eventually landed on my feet, my financial situation dramatically improved, and I am now in the process of purchasing a new home. This journey has made me a wiser and more sober-minded individual. The ability to survive and thrive through such adversity taught me that I can overcome anything.
Some key takeaways from this period include:
(1) the importance of making faith-based decisions and to ensure that such moves are truly worth the risk.
(2) My destiny and purpose were indeed worth it. I knew that this experience let me know that there were people and a purpose that I was called to that was much greater than my six-figure job. I never would have experienced the wisdom and intellect gained by this period of transition in my life had I not left my job.
(3) I learned that to accomplish great things, sometimes you must act despite your fears. EVERYONE is uneasy or unsure at some point in their journey. Everyone will not support your journey either.
(4) I also realized that not everyone will support your entrepreneurial journey, especially those closest to you. I didn’t tell my family for over three years that I left my government job to pursue entrepreneurship full-time, knowing their worry could become a potential distraction. You will walk alone and will be misunderstood. Know your God-given purpose and direction and keep it to yourself to avoid any external sabotage.
(5) Determination and perseverance helped me fight through opposition at all costs, and for that, I am grateful to be on the other side of through. You are tough, you can handle it, and you will make it through it!
What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?
The best source of new clients for my business has undoubtedly been word of mouth. This powerful form of referral marketing has proven to be invaluable in the expansion of my client base. When clients share their positive experiences with friends, family, and colleagues, it speaks volumes about the quality of service and professionalism they have received from Goshen. This direct line of recommendation allows me to connect with potential clients on a personal level, which fosters trust and credibility right from the start.
I vividly recall numerous instances where a simple conversation became the catalyst for new business opportunities. For example, a satisfied client may mention my services during a casual chat at a community event or a professional gathering. These referrals often happen organically and clients genuinely and enthusiastically share their experience of how my accounting, tax prep, and business consulting services made a significant difference within their businesses. Such endorsements are incredibly meaningful to me because they reflect the trust and satisfaction my clients have in my work. The personal touch and genuine care I put into each client relationship resonates with those they refer, therefore making word of mouth an effective and rewarding source of new clients.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://goshenconsultingmd.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goshenconsultingmd/
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/goshenconsultingmd
- Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/company/goshen-consulting-llc-maryland
- Twitter: @goshenllcmd
Image Credits
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