No matter how many employees you have, your tax practice can benefit from timely internal training. Internal training can increase efficiency, reduce stress and confusion for your staff, and create a more positive work environment.
Here are common internal training topics that can help you run your practice and manage your employees more smoothly – plus, how often you should offer them to your staff.
Tax-specific training
When to complete: Yearly, in line with continuing education requirements
Many tax practice owners believe it’s unnecessary to develop internal training on tax-related topics if their staff is experienced and keeping up with continuing education credits (CECs). If your tax prep staff consists of Enrolled Agents and CPAs, they’re already required to complete CECs or CPE (continuing professional education) each year.
If you have non-credentialed tax preparers on staff, consider encouraging or requiring them to participate in continuing education opportunities like the IRS’s Annual Filing Season Program. They’ll get18 hours of continuing education each year, including a yearly federal tax refresher course.
If your employees could benefit from specific tax-related training, try to find an IRS-approved continuing education course before creating your own internal training. For example, if your area experienced a natural disaster this tax year, you may want your staff to take a specific IRS course on tax relief for natural disasters by training through IRS-approved continuing education providers, you’ll save time for yourself and help your staff reach their CE requirements.
TaxSlayer Pro software training
When to complete: Upon hiring, as needed
TaxSlayer Pro provides free New User Orientation and Webinars for new Pro Web and desktop users. If you have new hire employees who are not familiar with TaxSlayer Pro, encourage them to watch our on-demand webinars. They will learn how to prepare and submit returns using the software and have an opportunity to ask any questions.
Tip: No matter how often you choose to offer internal training, always aim to schedule training outside of tax season. Your staff will be less busy and more able to absorb and implement the instruction.
Other essential employee training topics
Even if your staff is well-versed in all things tax, your practice can still benefit from regularly scheduled internal training on other topics.
Security and data protection training
When to complete: At least annually
As phishing and hacking schemes become increasingly sophisticated, even the most knowledgeable staff members can be deceived into disclosing clients’ sensitive information. The IRS recognizes the importance of establishing a policy around data protection by requiring tax preparers to create and update a Written Information Security Plan (WISP) each year to obtain and renew their EFIN each year.
Establishing a continual cyber security training schedule can mitigate your office’s risk of a data breach. Security and data protection training should be conducted at least annually, with additional sessions and refresher courses introduced as new technologies and threats emerge. Training should cover topics like:
- Phishing awareness
- Equipment and data security
- Password security policies
- Incident response procedures
Sensitivity and sexual harassment training
When to complete: Annually (or follow state requirements)
Several states require employers to offer sexual harassment training, and in some instances, training is mandated annually or biannually. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) emphasizes that it is best practice to conduct sexual harassment training regularly to reinforce a respectful and safe work environment.
Even if your state does not have specific requirements, incorporating some form of sexual harassment and anti-discrimination training is still considered best practice by most HR professionals. Regular training helps employees understand their rights and responsibilities, fostering a more inclusive workplace culture.
Technology and workflows training
When to complete: Upon hiring and with each significant update to the software
Your office runs at maximum efficiency when everyone has comprehensive training on the tools at their disposal. Your staff should not only be proficient in tax software but also in other essential digital workflows. These workflows could include:
- Digital document storage
- eSigning processes
- Calendar and work management systems
- Communication tools
Building proficiency in these areas empowers your team and allows your operations to run smoothly. Consistent training and updates will help employees adapt to new features and processes, keeping your office updated on the latest changes.
