Austin Tax and Financial: A Testament to Faith, Family, and Financial Wisdom
In St. Joseph, Michigan, Tom Austin, the founder of Austin Tax and Financial, embodies entrepreneurial success through his unwavering faith and family values. His journey from a traveling financial planner across Michigan and Indiana to the proud owner of a trusted local business highlights his resilience and dedication to community engagement.
The Road Less Traveled: Challenges and Transformation
Tom did not take a direct path in his career. He’s held many jobs over the years, from firefighter to bricklayer. It wasn’t until he was nearing 40 that he found his way into the financial world. He began his financial career by traveling across the Michiana area to people’s homes to offer his services. 10 years later, he took a leap of faith and established a brick-and-mortar business.
This decision carried risks, especially at the start of the 2008 financial collapse. Suddenly, he had overhead and expenses that he didn’t have when he was traveling. He also had to spend money to market his business which significantly cut into his income. Tom never gave up, and he found his place in the community and established a local presence. This gave him the ability to grow his business more than before. His emphasis on community engagement made Austin Tax and Financial a fixture of the St. Joe, Michigan area.
Faith and Family: The Core of Success
His rediscovery of faith significantly influenced Tom’s journey, which he credits for his success in life and business. Equally pivotal to the success of Austin Tax and Financial, is the involvement of his wife, who has been instrumental in the business. She supported Tom when he was traveling by doing paperwork and setting appointments, and when they opened the office, she took a hands-on role in running the day-to-day activities of the office. She also taught herself how to do taxes so that she could take on clients as well. Recently, Tom’s son joined the team, further cementing the business as a family legacy.
Building Relationships: Beyond Business Transactions
Tom Austin Prioritizes personal relationships over transactions. As an independent business owner, he can focus on what each customer needs. This is a flexibility he wouldn’t have had in a larger firm setting. Austin Tax and Financial have been able to thrive during challenging times because he fostered a sense of community and trust. While many businesses struggled during the economic turmoil of the 2009 financial crisis and the recent COVID-19 pandemic, he saw growth, proving the importance of connection and community during hard times.
A Vision for the Future: Expanding Horizons
Looking ahead, Tom is optimistic about the future of Austin Tax and Financial. He envisions a business that continues to adapt and grow. He sees integrating his son into the business as a step towards this future. In 2017 he purchased a larger building which provided the space to bring on another advisor. Unlike many people Tom’s age, he does not see himself retiring any time soon. If the Good Lord wills it, he will continue to stay involved in serving his clients. He’s always searching for more opportunities to give back to the community as well.
Wisdom for the Aspiring Entrepreneur
Tom’s journey offers invaluable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs. He believes that it’s never too late to pursue a dream or embark on a new venture. He advises entrepreneurs to be driven, accept failure as part of the journey, and stay committed to their vision. Tom’s love of working with people has helped him to overcome the obstacles of owning a business. His genuine concern for the well-being of others has been a key component of his success.
Austin Tax and Financial
stands as a testament to what can be achieved when passion is paired with purpose, and work is done with heart. His story is a testament to the idea that success is built on hard work, resilience, and a genuine concern for others.
Connect With Austin Tax and Financial
For further information on Austin Tax and Financial and to learn how Tom Austin and his team can support your financial planning and tax requirements, visit their website at www.austinfinancial.us, or connect with them on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/AustinTaxAndFinancial