We were lucky to catch up with Patryce Rispress recently and have shared our conversation below.

Patryce, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Talk to us about building your team? What was it like? What were some of the key challenges and what was your process like?

Did your business have employees from day one? Or was it just you at the start?

No, when I first started, it was just me. I firmly believe that before bringing on employees, it’s essential to work in the business, learn the processes, understand the customers, and refine operations. In the beginning, I loved what I did, and it didn’t feel like work. I had the freedom to manage my own schedule, and it was exciting.

However, as my client base grew, it became overwhelming to keep up with everything alone. Sleepless nights, long days, and the constant pressure to deliver quality service started taking a toll—not just on me, but on my family as well. That’s when I realized I needed help. But making the decision to hire wasn’t easy. Even though the business had the revenue to bring someone on, I was hesitant. Hiring an employee meant becoming responsible for another person’s livelihood, which was both a scary and rewarding realization.

What was it like recruiting those first few team members?

I started by researching temp agencies and job sites like LinkedIn to understand what a strong job description should include. Once I cast a wide net, I received an overwhelming number of applicants. The challenge then became how to identify the right talent. I quickly realized that resumes alone weren’t enough—I needed to assess real skills.

To streamline the process, I created a Google Form skills test tailored to the job’s requirements. This helped me filter out candidates who weren’t as committed or skilled. If they were willing to take the test, I knew they were serious about the job. From there, I conducted interviews that incorporated scenario-based questions, allowing me to gauge their thought process and problem-solving abilities.

What was the training process like?

Coming from a corporate background as a manager, I initially used structured training methods I had implemented in the past. However, training was challenging because I was still running the business alone. Over time, I refined my onboarding process, creating step-by-step guides and structured workflows to make it more efficient.

If you were starting today, would you do anything differently?

Absolutely. Over the years, I’ve learned so many dos and don’ts in hiring and training. If I were starting today, I would focus on building scalable processes from day one—including standardized training programs, clear job descriptions, and automation tools to support operations. I would also trust my instincts more when selecting candidates and invest in hiring sooner rather than waiting until I was overwhelmed.

Looking back, hiring that first employee was one of the best decisions I made for my business. It allowed me to grow, delegate, and regain the balance that I had lost. While the process was challenging, it was an invaluable learning experience that has shaped how I manage my team today.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I am Patryce Rispress, an accountant, business consultant, and real estate investor with over 20 years of experience in financial management, bookkeeping, tax planning, and business strategy. I founded PAK Accounting to provide comprehensive financial services that empower businesses, nonprofits, and individuals to achieve financial clarity and growth. My journey into the accounting industry was driven by a deep passion for helping businesses and organizations understand their numbers, make informed decisions, and build sustainable financial structures.

At PAK Accounting, we offer bookkeeping, payroll management, tax planning and preparation, financial consulting, budgeting, grant management, and project management services. We also provide specialized services for subcontractors, real estate investors, and nonprofit organizations, ensuring they remain compliant, profitable, and financially structured for success. One of the biggest problems we solve for clients is helping them transition from financial disorganization to financial confidence—whether that’s through accurate reporting, strategic tax planning, or business structuring.

What sets PAK Accounting apart is our personalized, hands-on approach. We go beyond just crunching numbers—we educate, strategize, and provide tailored solutions that align with each client’s long-term goals. Unlike traditional accounting firms, we leverage partnerships with trusted professionals in trust planning, legal services, financial advising, and grant writing, ensuring that our clients receive holistic financial support.

I am most proud of the impact we have had in helping small businesses, nonprofits, and real estate investors grow and thrive. Watching clients transform their businesses, gain financial stability, and take control of their financial future is incredibly rewarding.

For potential clients, the main things I want them to know about PAK Accounting are:

We are more than an accounting firm—we are financial partners who help businesses scale, strategize, and succeed.
We provide customized, industry-specific solutions to address your unique financial needs.
Our dedicated bookkeepers and financial experts work closely with you to ensure accuracy, compliance, and financial efficiency.
Whether you need day-to-day bookkeeping, tax planning, or long-term financial strategy, we are here to support you every step of the way.
I look forward to continuing to serve businesses and organizations that are ready to take their financial management to the next level.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

1. Providing High-Quality, Reliable Service
From day one, my focus has been on accuracy, compliance, and strategic financial planning. Clients know they can rely on PAK Accounting to handle their bookkeeping, tax planning, payroll, and financial consulting with precision and integrity. Ensuring that every client receives personalized, results-driven financial solutions has been critical to building trust.

2. Strong Client Relationships & Word-of-Mouth Referrals
Many of my clients come from referrals because they have experienced first-hand the value and impact of our services. My approach is not transactional—I invest in long-term relationships, ensuring that businesses, nonprofits, and real estate investors have ongoing financial support. Happy clients naturally refer others, strengthening PAK Accounting’s reputation in the market.

3. Educating & Empowering Clients
Beyond traditional accounting, I emphasize financial literacy and strategic planning. By teaching clients how to interpret their financials, maximize tax savings, and structure their businesses for success, I have positioned PAK Accounting as more than just a bookkeeping service—we are financial advisors and strategic partners.

4. Industry Specialization & Partnerships
I have built strong relationships with trusted professionals in legal services, financial planning, grant writing, and trust planning, ensuring clients have access to a full spectrum of financial support. My deep understanding of industries such as construction, real estate investing, and nonprofit accounting has set me apart, allowing me to tailor solutions that directly address the needs of these sectors.

5. Adaptability & Growth
As the financial landscape evolves, I continuously invest in learning, technology, and process improvements to better serve clients. Whether implementing cloud-based accounting systems, streamlining tax filing procedures, or expanding services to include project management for subcontractors, I ensure PAK Accounting stays ahead of industry trends.

6. Transparency & Ethical Practices
Trust is the foundation of my business. I operate with full transparency, ensuring that clients understand their financial standing and are equipped to make informed decisions. By prioritizing ethical accounting practices and honest financial reporting, I have built a reputation as a reliable and trustworthy financial professional.

Overall, PAK Accounting’s reputation has been built on delivering exceptional service, fostering strong client relationships, and continuously evolving to meet the needs of businesses and organizations.

Do you have any insights you can share related to maintaining high team morale?

1. Show Appreciation & Recognize Efforts
I firmly believe in thanking my team regularly—both in private and publicly. A simple “thank you” goes a long way, but I also recognize efforts through bonuses, gifts, and shoutouts. Acknowledging their hard work not only boosts morale but also fosters a culture of appreciation and respect.

2. Create Team-Building Opportunities
Strong teams are built on connection and trust, so I incorporate team-building activities, retreats, and casual outings to strengthen relationships. These activities allow employees to bond outside of work, making collaboration easier and more natural.

3. Promote Transparency & Open Communication
I believe in keeping my team informed about the business—its successes, challenges, and future plans. Transparency builds trust and engagement, ensuring employees feel like they are truly part of the organization’s growth. Encouraging open dialogue and actively listening to feedback helps maintain a positive work environment.

4. Provide Growth & Development Opportunities
Investing in training, professional development, and mentorship ensures employees feel valued and motivated. Whether it’s skill-building workshops, leadership training, or mentorship programs, I encourage continuous learning so that my team can grow alongside the company.

5. Offer Flexibility & Work-Life Balance
Understanding that employees have lives outside of work is key to preventing burnout and maintaining morale. Offering flexible schedules, remote work options, and personal time off helps employees maintain a healthy balance, which in turn leads to higher productivity and job satisfaction.

6. Surprise Bonuses & Incentives
I believe in unexpected rewards—not just performance-based bonuses, but “just because” bonuses to show appreciation. Small gestures, whether it’s a gift card, extra time off, or an office lunch, create a sense of belonging and motivation.

7. Lead by Example
A great team starts with great leadership. I strive to demonstrate accountability, hard work, and respect in everything I do. When employees see that I’m fully invested in their success and the company’s mission, it creates a strong, motivated, and committed team culture.

By implementing these strategies, I’ve been able to build a team that is engaged, productive, and genuinely enjoys working together. A happy team leads to better performance, stronger collaboration, and a thriving company culture.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.pakaccountingusa.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pak_accounting/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PAKAccountingUSA/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pakaccountingusa

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