SAMOA: Zero experience necessary – financial service experts talk Xero training

In earlier stories, we discussed the benefits of Xero for small and medium-sized businesses and clarified what we mean by “migrating”. In this third story in our Xero series, we talk to BLP-approved financial services advisors in Samoa about what sort of training businesses can expect once they decide to make the move to Xero.

Before we meet the advisors, there are some important things to note about Xero. The most important is that no one knows how to use new software without training, often extensive training. The software interface on Xero is very user-friendly, and you don’t have to have any prior bookkeeping or accounting knowledge or education to use it. All advisors we talk to provide training for clients and their staff with any level of experience.

Like all the financial advisors we asked, BDO Samoa takes training very seriously. Hanalei Betham, a partner at BDO, talked to us about the various types of training available to BDO clients and to the general public in Samoa. First, as part of the “package” offered to clients following migration to Xero, staff are trained on how to enter and post transactions, reconcile bank accounts, and manage “live” data.

BDO also offers annual or bi-annual Xero Masterclass training to the public, offering classes at four levels of expertise, from new users to highly proficient. They currently have around 100 participants attending these training sessions, a good indication of the level of uptake in Samoa. These very successful classes have been offered to the business community for the last six years at a nominal cost.

With over 25 Xero-certified staff in BDO’s Samoa office, additional training is available to clients where specific issues are dealt with, closely tailored to the client’s needs. Hanalei notes very positive feedback is received for all types of training BDO offers.

Tagaloa Faafouina Su’a, partner at Su’a ma Pauga & Associates, believes Xero is a game-changer for clients in Samoa. He notes that while many prospective Xero users are initially reluctant to switch to a cloud-based system, once they make the change, they reap the benefits of easily accessing real-time reports and information with which to make informed decisions.

It is a significant challenge for financial advisors to ensure clients have the skills to manage their own day-to-day bookkeeping, and Tagaloa Su’a states, “We assist our clients with all the training they need for their particular skillset, and of course, we step in where reports are needed urgently or when the client needs extra help. And we can do that from anywhere, any time.”

He also notes, “It is our responsibility to keep up to date with Xero changes and to consult with Xero on issues that need improvement for the benefit of our clients.” It’s good to know that Xero is not just a big faceless corporation but is responsive when advisors raise issues and is able to provide timely answers or solutions.

Synbiz Solutions partner Rajendra Singh notes that customised training is offered to all individual clients at Synbiz. “Without this customised training, there could be a gap between subscription cost and optimal use.” Closing that gap through training ensures clients fully understand how Xero can help and are getting the best out of their Xero subscription.

The amount of training offered at Synbiz varies according to the knowledge of the client and could be between 1-3 days. Around six months after initial training, Rajendra recommends a follow-up session to address any issues following implementation, and this is also an opportunity for Synbiz to ensure the client is making the most of the software. It is clearly better for the client and the advisor if the client is using Xero correctly!

It cannot be left unsaid that Xero comes at a cost, but it does provide significant opportunities to streamline processes and save money by keeping in close touch with how your business is tracking.

BLP can help by providing subsidised professional advice to move your accounts to Xero and ensure you and your staff are fully trained. Subsidies to migrate to Xero are available under the Innovation category because we understand that improving operating systems can generate positive business returns.

To catch up on our earlier article, follow this link: https://about.businesslinkpacific.com/blp-connects-businesses-with-quality-local-business-advice/

To find a BLP approved advisor to help you with migration and training in using Xero in your country, visit https://businesslinkpacific.com/search.