Why a benchmark network?

As in other industries, "tax consulting firm" is not the same as "tax consulting firm". The participating law firms differ visibly in location, size and their diverse focuses. On closer inspection, however, also in the law firm and employee management, the organization, the way of working and their customer profile. What brings them together is the challenge of digitalization. They describe the digital orientation of work processes for and with their clients as their common core. At their meetings, all members disclose their data and enable each other to exchange maximum experience in a trusting environment. As a result, a same mindset emerges and a framework in which everything can be talked about openly, and thus access to the concentrated expert knowledge of 10 law firms.

Why set up a cooperative?

The basis of an exchange like this is trust. Trust is created through commitment. What began with a loose exchange led from "I" to "we" and to an increasingly concrete branding: the working group became the "Tax Specialists" and, with a further focus, Consulista eG. The Consulista concept is based on benchmarking, networking, further training and employee development. The owners meet three times a year for several days at different locations. The colleagues offer each other collegial advice according to their specializations in order to be able to work out the best solution for their clients. Their clients not only benefit from building up their firm's expertise, they are also regularly invited to digital Consulista expert talks.

Since the core topic of digitization is not only about technical issues, but employee management plays a central role, the law firm's employees are also involved in Consulista. For example, in thematic working groups or specialist groups in which employees across law firms exchange information on topics such as wages, digital financial accounting or income tax. This creates supra-regional teams of specialists.

Joint training formats such as the online salary workshop offered twice a year offer employees the opportunity to contribute their experience on current topics, reflect on their own way of working and develop ideas for improvements. Every few years, the cooperative organises a large employee event for all law firms for further training and networking. The cooperation has resulted in valuable friendships and common understanding.

How does Consulista control itself?

The owners' meetings serve not only to transfer knowledge, but also as a steering mechanism for the cooperative. Learning and looking to the future are also in the foreground here. What we can learn from and what we can do better also applies to our own events. They look back, look ahead, plan, make decisions and learn from and with each other. Best practice ideas are presented as a "gift among friends", and collegial consultation appointments are made as needed and with advance registration. To broaden the perspective, external consultants such as Quantensprung are also involved.

Is that also available for me?

If you are a tax consulting firm, please contact Consulista at www.consulista.de

If you would like to start a network or cooperative yourself and would like support, please feel free to contact us, your Quantensprung team.

What recommended formats such as Consulista are available to you in your industry?