We had the good fortune of connecting with Erin Preiser and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Erin, what do you attribute your success to?
The most important factor behind our success is genuine connection. People often picture a CPA as a quiet, number-pushing figure (with a bow tie and a pocket protector) who show up once a year, usually with bad news!

Our team and our brand isn’t like that at all. We show up as real people who enjoy the conversation as much as the calculations. We talk in plain English, keep the dialogue going all year, and make sure our clients feel valued. It’s about connection and relationship.

I really do believe that authenticity shows through in everything we do (it’s why it’s one of our core values)! It’s the engine behind our growth. People can see through fake and in today’s world where everything is done behind a screen, they love the personal connection.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
25 years ago, I finished college and then immediately went on to get my MBA. I embarked on a career I loved as a Project Manager with a nationally known company. Within a few short years, I had four children five and under. Our family had to regroup and I stepped away from the corporate world to raise my babies. It took me the better part of 15 years to get ready to come back from that decision.

I spent almost 2 years applying for jobs that I was way overqualified for, to not even get a response. It was defeating and difficult trying to make the transition back into not just a job, but a career. Four years later, I am in a role that I love more than I even know possible. My current employer took a chance on me and I can say with confidence, it has paid off for us both exponentially! I had to learn a completely new role and I was stretched in ways I honestly wasn’t prepared for. I dug in though, read everything I could get my hands on, networked with leaders who could take me to the next level and NEVER GAVE UP. I approached my role as though I owned the company – that’s the blood, sweat and tears I put into it… and thankfully, it has paid off ten fold. I am so fulfilled, both personally and in my job- that it energizes me to keep putting in that same energy everyday. Determination to succeed isn’t born, it’s chosen.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
We live in the North suburbs, so we don’t venture into the city that often. What I love most though is that we ARE able to hit the city or hit the mountains, all with a short drive. I would spend time at one of our small, local wineries. They have amazing service, delicious wine, fun entertainment and the BEST views of the mountains. I love kicking back, catching up and enjoying a nice night that way. We’d hit some of our best locally owned restaurants here in North Georgia and do some hiking!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My husband is not only my best friend, but my biggest cheerleader. When I decided to jump into a new role 4 years ago, he was right there – telling me that I could do it! I’ve spent countless hours at night and weekends, putting in the time to push our firm to the next level. He never complains, just jumps in with the kids, gives me amazing feedback and is there cheering for every win, big or small. I could never have been this successful without his encouragement!

Website: https://www.CherokeeCPA.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-preiser-042766223/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CherokeeCPA

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