How to Protect Your Firm from Service Creep (and Stop Saying Yes to Everything)
Description
If you’ve ever caught yourself saying “yes” to one more client favor — knowing it won’t make it to the invoice — this episode is for you.
Host Lee Reams II, founder of CountingWorks PRO, and co-host Rebekah Barton break down one of the most common profit leaks in accounting and advisory firms: service creep.
They’ll walk you through:
- What service creep actually looks like (and why it’s so easy to miss)
- Why even seasoned pros struggle to say no
- How to set better boundaries with clear engagement letters and proposals
- Polite, ready-to-use scripts for out-of-scope client requests
- Simple automation tools that protect your time and margins
You’ll also learn how modern firms are using digital proposals, client intake, and automated engagement renewals to turn scope creep into structured, billable work — without awkward client conversations.
💡 Key takeaway: Saying “no” isn’t the goal — saying “yes” the right way is.
Quotes & Data Mentioned:
- 89% of firms have avoided scope conversations (Ignition Scope Creep Survey)
- Firms lose roughly $85,000 a year in unbilled work (Libeo Survey)
- Up to 20% of revenue disappears through service creep (ScopeKeeper Advisory Report)
If you’re ready to protect your profit, empower your team, and create a firm that values your expertise — this episode is a must-listen.
🎙️ The Growth Minded Accountant — helping accounting and advisory professionals grow smarter, stronger, and more profitable.
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