Joshua Cintorino
(They/them)
Photo Credit: Ismael Fernandez
I’ve been in accounting/finance in some way, shape, or form throughout my life. Originally, it consisted of spending my free time reading and learning how to better manage my own personal finances. My friends began turning to me any time they had financial questions. I helped them with everything ranging from budgeting monthly finances to applying for their first credit card. And before you ask, yes – I was always the one splitting the bill.
Eventually, I realized that I should pursue a career in the industry. I started off in banking where I was able to build meaningful relationships with my customers. One of the things they appreciated most was that despite having sales goals and being pushed to upsell products, I refused to suggest a product to anyone unless I felt it was in their best interest.
My only concern about a career in accounting/finance was that I also wanted to program. I figured I would do it as a hobby, but working in property management changed that for me. Not only did I gain exposure to a large number of corporate entities, I was also given the unique opportunity to blend programming with accounting. Automating many of the repetitive tasks for my company’s portfolio of 100+ buildings gave me a great deal of satisfaction and made me quite popular among my coworkers.
So why did I decide to start consulting? I want to use my skills to provide small businesses with unique and efficient approaches to managing their finances. I like to think I’m leveling the playing field by giving my clients the support they need to compete with large corporations. I chose to offer consulting services to individuals as well because, let’s face it, personal finances are tough to navigate; I’d like to make it easier.