We recently connected with Alisha Manion and have shared our conversation below.
Alisha, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Let’s jump to the end – what do you want to be remembered for?
As a multi-business owner deeply entrenched in my community and serving clients nationwide, my hope for my legacy is simple yet profound: “when no one else would, she did.” It’s a mantra I’ve lived by, a guiding principle that has shaped every endeavor I’ve undertaken, and one I hope to see trickle throughout my community.
Through Commonwealth Accounting & Bookkeeping, I’ve aimed to be the first stepping stone for small business owners, often overlooked or priced out by larger firms. My mission, rooted in my academic background in accounting and business, has been to provide top-tier services at rates accessible to small business owners. Witnessing these businesses grow from humble beginnings to thriving enterprises, with the added gift of free time to spend with loved ones, has been immensely rewarding.
With Crazy Jumpers, LLC & CJ Event Rentals, I’ve had the joy of bringing laughter and fun to Central Kentucky, alongside my husband and family. Despite industry norms, we’ve made it a priority to cater to community needs and budgets, whether it’s lending support to libraries, schools, or non-profit events. Hosting family-focused festivals with no entry fee, we aim to provide an inclusive environment where families can come together and create cherished memories without financial barriers. Seeing smiles light up faces, both young and old, fuels my commitment to making life’s simple joys accessible to all.
But my legacy isn’t just about business ventures; it’s about giving back to the community that raised me. From serving on park & rec boards to founding non-profits like Gala For A Cause, I’ve poured my heart and soul into initiatives that benefit Grayson County. Supporting organizations like Leitchfield Fire Department Auxiliary, Fix Grayson County KY, Leitchfield Lions Club, Twin Lakes Humane Society, GC Unstoppables Special Olympics Team, and GC Alliance isn’t just a duty; it’s a privilege. (I have so many more favorites but I had to stop listing.)
Ultimately, I hope to be remembered not just for my business acumen, but for the compassion and dedication I’ve poured into every aspect of my life. I hope my mantra “when no one else would, she did” becomes my identifier that people talk about, long after I’m gone. If I can inspire even a single person to believe in the power of giving back and making a difference, then my legacy will have achieved its purpose.
Alisha, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I am a 28-year-old female-veteran multi-business owner located in Leitchfield, KY with four amazing kids. I am proud to be part of a small community who knows each other by name and provides unwavering support to its families. My husband retired from the US Air Force, and I served 8 years in the Army KY National Guard; integrity and dedication are at the heart of everything I do.
On a rainy day, you’ll likely find me immersed in a good book or tackling a challenging puzzle. But when the sun is shining, I’m either working on our second business, Crazy Jumpers, or on the family farm. I also enjoy scuba diving, tennis, and exploring new destinations through travel.
Raised by a small business owner, I quickly learned how underserved the sector is. Large firms often price out small business owners, leaving them to navigate complex financial matters alone. This sparked my interest in the accounting industry, allowing me to help small businesses understand their tax obligations and achieve profitable growth.
My educational journey led me to earn a B.S. in Accounting from Sullivan University, followed by a dual Masters in Accounting and Business Administration from Southern Utah University. With certifications as a QuickBooks Pro Advisor and expertise in various business disciplines, I’m well-equipped to provide comprehensive solutions to my clients.
At Commonwealth Accounting & Bookkeeping, I offer a range of services tailored to the needs of small businesses. Listed are some of the main services I offer: Business Consulting, QuickBooks Online Consulting, Business Set-Up, Monthly Accounting & Bookkeeping Services, Outsourced CFO Services and Tax Planning, Preparing & Filing. Through all my services, I provide personalized guidance to ensure my clients’ financial success.
Many of my clients start as hobbyists looking to turn their passion into a business. I offer advice on business entity types, tax accounts, financial management, marketing strategies, and outsourcing to help them thrive. For larger, established businesses, I provide personalized advice based on their unique needs, leveraging my one-on-one expertise to drive growth and profitability.
For ongoing clients, I provide monthly financial reports, including Profit & Loss, Balance Sheet, Cash Flow, and AR/AP reports. These reports empower business owners to make informed decisions and understand their financial health.
But what truly sets me apart is my dedication to treating clients like family. I’m not just their accountant—I’m their cheerleader, confidant, and sometimes even their mom. Every client has my personal cell phone number, and I’m committed to providing the best possible service, whether it’s helping them understand their financials or finding legal ways to lower their tax obligations.
I’m incredibly proud of the growth and success of Commonwealth Accounting & Bookkeeping. Starting as a home office startup with two kids under five and completing a double master’s program, we’ve grown into a national firm serving clients across the country. But above all, I’m proud to live my mission every day—to help and change lives, whether it’s supporting small business owners or individuals needing tax assistance.
Thank you for allowing me to share my passion and expertise with you!
We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?
One lesson I had to unlearn was the notion of “make a decision and don’t give up.” When I first went to college, I was a Pre-Vet, Animal Equine student with plans to work at Arlington Cemetery with the ceremonial horses. Everything I had learned from my earlier years told me to push through, not change majors, and stick with my original dream. However, the universe had other plans. After my freshman year at the University of Kentucky, I dropped out; I couldn’t work with sick and dying animals. When I came back home, I felt like a failure, like I had let my family down, and most importantly, myself down. My dad gave me a job at his business, more of a blessing than he realized at the time. While working in that small business, a new dream started to build, and slowly but surely, I found my purpose again. Today, I don’t know what my life would be like if I hadn’t given up on my first dream, but I am so glad I did!
Now, if anyone asks me if they should quit their job, learn a new trade, or take an unexpected job – my answer is always YES! Growth only happens in uncomfortable places.
What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?
In many industries, there’s a common misconception that physical marketing holds the key to growing clientele. While it may hold true in some cases, the most effective growth strategy for businesses across the board is, without a doubt, good customer service. Often overlooked, word-of-mouth advertising can be just as impactful—if not more so—than branding colors or social media presence. One of the cornerstones of exceptional customer service, in my experience, is treating clients like family, going above and beyond, and upholding integrity.
Treating clients like family begins with fostering genuine connections. Taking the time to inquire about their lives, whether it’s their children, hobbies, or recent events, demonstrates a level of care that transcends mere transactions. A simple hello and wave when encountering them in public can further solidify this bond. Additionally, sharing personal anecdotes or embarrassing moments can help bridge the gap and establish trust.
Going the extra mile is essential for building lasting relationships with clients. This could entail accommodating their needs outside of regular business hours, providing complimentary services or products during times of struggle, or showing appreciation through gestures like sending Christmas cards or gifts. In my accounting business, I make it a point to send Christmas gifts to ongoing clients annually. Similarly, Crazy Jumpers offers free game rentals to repeat customers when available. While owning a business demands dedication beyond the typical 9-5 schedule, the willingness to go above and beyond for clients is what sets exemplary businesses apart.
Integrity serves as the bedrock of successful client relationships. Admitting to mistakes and rectifying them without hesitation or additional charges is crucial. It’s these moments of humility and accountability that resonate with clients the most and foster unwavering loyalty. While perfection may be unattainable, it’s how businesses handle imperfections that define their character and reputation in the eyes of their clientele.
When it comes to growing my clientele, it’s all about good old-fashioned customer service, treating clients like family, going the extra mile, and keeping it real with integrity. Trust me, it works wonders.
Contact Info:
- Website: commonwealthaccounting.com; crazyjumpersky.com
- Instagram: commonwealthaccounting; crazyjumpersky
- Facebook: Commonwealth Accounting & Bookkeeping, Crazy Jumpers
- Other: [email protected] ; [email protected]
Image Credits
Hillary Lauren Photography, Cultivating Culver