Sacramento Business Owner Offers Advice For Career Success
The greater Sacramento region constantly spins off new businesses while established businesses expand on a regular basis. The need for managers is critical but the competition is fierce. Make yourself stand out in the running by presenting an impressive educational background that makes you the best candidate.
Rich Mason fed his management needs by starting his own company called Tax Related Services. He has spent the last 25-plus years working with local and regional businesses of all types, and with individuals, in providing tax advice to help them navigate the twisted route through the tax code. He focuses on small business owners in the area, and keeping them ahead of the ever-changing tax rules and regulations they are faced with.
What was your focus in school?
"I started as a music major at San Jose State. After a stint in the military, I decided to follow my family's tradition of being accountants. My grandfather and dad were CPAs. I earned a B.S. in accounting/business administration, with minors in marketing and economics, from California State University, Hayward. I was also able to enhance my knowledge with marketing classes. I worked with the SBA in rescuing small businesses."
How did you decide on your field of study?
"I decided upon a practice focusing on taxation, with accounting as part of it, and built the business with that. Accounting just wasn't enough for me. That's the reason it's called Tax Related Services. I not only prepare clients' taxes, but I am also able to represent clients and negotiate for them with the IRS."
How has that decision supported you in your career?
"The degrees have been a stepping stone to many endeavors. As an enrolled agent, I am required to have 32 hours of continuing education each year to maintain my current U.S. Treasury Department license. The continuing education is a must in keeping up to date on what Congress is trying to do. I am also a licensed Real Estate Broker, which also requires continuing education. I help clients navigate through different real estate transactions while keeping the tax repercussions to a minimum."
Would you be where you are today without your education?
"It would have been impossible to achieve what I have in the world of business without the educational degrees and certifications I have. It is vital in my line of business to be completely up to date and to be able to communicate effectively with my clients, employees and the IRS."
Charles Ferris is a freelance writer who has lived in the Sierra, halfway between Sacramento and Lake Tahoe, for the last 37 years. In 2010 he retired from teaching after 36 years . He and his wife hike, kayak, cross country ski, snow shoe, ride mountain bikes and road bikes, year round. His work can be found at Examiner.com.
