JaJuan L Williams
Virtual CFO, Forensic Accountant, Business Strategist
Founder of The Lady CPA Inc
I am JaJuan L. Williams also known as J. Lauren Williams, I am a focused, driven and passionate accounting professional who holds scholarship and entrepreneurship as the two key attributions to who I am. As a Confident, Professional, Accomplished accounting professional, My primary focus is sharing my experience with other women accountants through mentoring and encouraging them through their educational and professional journey's.
What motivated and inspired you to start your own business?
After working in corporate accounting as a senior regional accountant handling over 130 accounts, I knew this was something I could do for myself as my own accounting firm.
Tell us about your business. I have two businesses.
CFO Benefits which is a full service Accounting/CFO Consulting Firm. We service small to mid-sized business virtually all over the world. I have 1 accounting supervisor, 2 Senior accountants, and 5 bookkeepers who are all virtual. My other organization is The Lady CPA an Non-Profit organization helping to aide the advancement of minority women in the accounting and finance profession. This is truly my heart
List awards/certifications/accomplishments.
I have a Bachelors Degree in Criminal Justice Administration. I have a Masters Degree in Business with an Emphasis in Accounting. I am in ABD status for my Doctorate in Business Administration. I was inducted into the NAPW VIP Women of the year circle for 2017-2018.
I was inducted into the Delta Mu Delta International association for business in 2013 in recognition of scholastic attainment
I am a CPA candidate
Where is your business based?
Both businesses are virtual I am in St. Augustine Florida. TLCPA has members all over the U.S. CFO Benefits has clients all over the US
What were the first few steps you took to get your business up and running? I began the transition while still working in corporate America. I began to take on clients for about 2 years before I was able to fully leave corporate America to work full time for myself. That was almost 10 years ago.
What have been your biggest challenges so far?
The time it has taken away from my family. Growing an empire takes time and dedication that many may not be willing to sacrifice or can sacrifice.
How did you overcome these challenges?
I developed a great support system that believes in my dreams as much or more than I do so the sacrifice of time has not been an issue.
How do you keep motivated through difficult times?
My family and children are my motivation because I am establishing a legacy and generational wealth for them.
How do you distinguish yourself from your competitors? My customer service and wealth of knowledge through extensive education and research. I believe in providing stellar customer service and being knowledgeable about what I am offering, what the client needs and what I am able to provide. I take a more hands on approach.
What is the best advice you have received recently? Someone has to be first in or to be able to lead, why not me!
What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs?
Find a GREAT support system, an accountability partner who is aspiring to achieve the same goals as you and, never give up. Never stop dreaming, as dreams become realty with hard work and dedication.
What is a good article or book you have read recently? Wake up happy by Michael Straham