Accountant rankings on the Find an Accountant web site

The Find an Accountant website uses a complex algorithm to determine your ranking. This algorithm changes frequently as we work to display the best and most relevant accountants to each small business. Understanding these factors can help you optimize your profile.

Factors that determine ranking

1. Advanced certifications: Holding an Advanced certification boosts your ranking. However, having both Desktop Advanced and Online Advanced certifications does not rank you higher than someone who holds only one.
2. Recent certifications: Completing the most recent QuickBooks Desktop or QuickBooks Online certification improves your visibility. Small business owners are more influenced by recent certifications than the total number accumulated over time. (Note: As of December 15, 2022, new Desktop certifications are no longer available.)
3. Client reviews: Both the total number of reviews and your overall star rating impact your search rank.
4. Location: Search results prioritize proximity. The closer your practice is to the city or postal code searched by the prospective client, the higher your profile will rank.
5. Profile photo: Profiles with photos receive 2.5 times more clicks than those without. Adding a professional picture is one of the most effective ways to improve your profile's performance.

Tips to improve your profile

If you are currently certified or are about to become certified, here are some tips to help your profile stand out:

• CAPITAL LETTERS in your name, company name, and profile get readers' attention. If you use capital letters throughout your message, however, it may appear that you're shouting, so use this tactic appropriately.
• Personality in your profile helps it stand out from the rest. Tell more about yourself and what makes you and your practice unique in the "About your practice" section of the profile.
• Current contact information is crucial for your next client to find you, so be sure you update your profile whenever your contact information (such as phone number and e-mail address) changes.
• Listing it all is important. Select all the applicable professional titles, consulting and technical expertise, services provided, and products supported in your practice.
• Maintain active certifications current by updating it every year.  Current year certification is considered in the ranking algorithm, past certifications are not
• Certification in QuickBooks Enterprise or Point of Sale Software may be appropriate for your practice and the type of client you like to service. Completing these certifications may increase your rank when other ranking factors are equal
• More Is More & Less is More. The more information you can provide about you and your practice, the more professional your profile will appear, and the better the chance you will be contacted. However, you want to be concise and relevant so it is less about the number of words you use and more about how you effectively provide information that will entice an end user to call you. Remember, most end users are looking for a solution to a problem. Giving them your concise "elevator pitch" would be the best way to grab and keep their attention.

If you have not already done so you can Publish and manage your Find an Accountant profile in QuickBooks Online Accountant.