Starting a career or business in tax preparation can be overwhelming. Between mastering IRS guidelines, building client relationships, and navigating ever-changing laws, it’s easy to feel like you’re doing it all alone. That’s where mentorship becomes a game-changer.
A mentor isn’t just someone who answers your questions—they can accelerate your growth, boost your confidence, and help you build a sustainable business in a competitive industry.
In this post, we’ll explore why mentorship is critical in the tax industry, how it can fast-track your success, and what to look for in a great coach.
💡 Why Mentorship Matters in the Tax Industry
The tax industry is both technical and relational. You need to understand laws, tools, and compliance—and also how to explain complex things clearly to clients, market yourself, and run a business.
A mentor helps you bridge the gap between textbook knowledge and real-world success.
Here’s what the right mentorship can do for you:
- ✅ Shorten your learning curve
- ✅ Help you avoid costly mistakes
- ✅ Provide real-time answers and guidance
- ✅ Offer support and encouragement when things get tough
- ✅ Introduce you to tools, resources, and networks you wouldn’t find on your own
🚀 How Mentorship Accelerates Your Growth
Let’s say you’re starting from scratch. You’ve taken a tax course or earned your PTIN—but now you’re wondering:
- How do I get my first clients?
- What software should I use?
- How do I price my services?
- What if I mess up someone’s return?
A mentor has been there. They’ve made the mistakes, solved the problems, and learned what works.
With a mentor, you’ll:
- Get real-world answers based on experience
- Learn how to build systems that save you time
- Discover how to market your business effectively
- Gain confidence in handling clients and audits
- Understand how to grow beyond tax prep into planning, advisory, or education
Many new tax pros spend years figuring this out on their own. With the right mentor, you can do it in months.
👩🏫 What to Look for in a Great Tax Mentor
Not all coaches or courses are created equal. Here’s what to look for in a mentor:
✅ 1. Real-World Experience
They’ve filed hundreds (if not thousands) of returns, worked with diverse clients, and understand the business side—not just theory.
✅ 2. Teaching Ability
They can break down complex concepts clearly and guide you step by step, no matter your starting point.
✅ 3. Current Knowledge
They stay updated on IRS changes, tech tools, and client behavior—because tax law evolves every year.
✅ 4. Supportive Mindset
They encourage you, hold you accountable, and want to see you succeed—not just sell you a course.
✅ 5. Proven Systems
They offer templates, checklists, workflows, and marketing strategies to help you grow smarter—not just harder.
🤝 How Mentorship at JTPS Advisory Co. Works
At JTPS Advisory Co., our Tax Pro Coaching & Mentorship Program is designed specifically for aspiring or growing tax professionals.
We offer:
- 1-on-1 coaching and accountability
- Tax software training (like TaxSlayer or CrossLink)
- Client intake and workflow systems
- Real-time feedback on your cases and returns
- Business setup and branding guidance
- Marketing strategies to get more clients
- Ongoing support throughout tax season and beyond