AAT qualified Tej Gawera joined TaxAssist Accountants in 2011 and now operates from shops in Leicester East and Syston. Here he explains more about his decision to join the network, his thoughts on the support provided and what he has achieved so far.
"When I first read about TaxAssist Accountants I was intrigued. What attracted me was the business model - servicing small business clients from a shop, and the training, back-up, and kudos of being part of a national brand.”
Tej opened his first shop at 188 Uppingham Road in Leicester shortly after joining the franchise, and it has more than proven its worth. So much so, that he opened a second shop at 8 High Street, Syston in Leicestershire in 2017.
“The shops have proven to be a great draw and are now firmly established. I receive a good number of referrals, which reflects my emphasis on first class service provision," said Tej. "We’re really proud of the reputation the business has built up."
Tej is full of praise for the Norwich-based Support Team: "They have been first class and have delivered everything that was promised. I’m happy with the level of training and support, both technical and marketing that I have received.
“I can’t emphasise enough the importance of establishing good quality staff to assist you” said Tej, who has a team of 8 across his two premises. "It would have been impossible to get where I am today without the loyalty and hard work provided by my team."
Tej recently looked back on his journey so far with TaxAssist Accountants and reflected on how far he had come.
"11 years ago I started with TaxAssist Accountants...a mixture of excitement, dread, nerves. The self employment journey had begun. I'd turned 40, was starting with no clients, a business loan and small office. Fast forward and 11 years has gone in the blink of an eye. I'm 2 stone lighter, a lot greyer, slightly less hair, 500 plus clients, 8 team members, 2 offices and 175 plus google reviews.
"Each day is a school day. You have to expect the best, prepare for the worst, and take what comes. Don't make the same mistakes - make brand new ones! Self-employment has been rewarding - money wise, self development and seeing your team build and develop, as well as happy clients - well happyish - its tax after all!!
"I'd like to thank all at TaxAssist for their support. I’m really looking forward to the future and expanding my business further. TaxAssist really hasn’t disappointed, and I’d highly recommend it.”
March 2024
