When it comes to running a highly functional business, three key components will always stand out: people, product, and process. These factors are universal across all industries.
So, the same applies when you're evaluating a payroll company. You want a payroll provider that excels in these areas to ensure your business runs smoothly.
Here’s what to consider in each category:
A payroll company's team is the backbone of the service you’ll receive. Ask about the training, motivation, and support their staff gets. Are they well-trained and have the tools needed to excel? Overworked or underappreciated employees are bound to make mistakes that could impact your payroll processing.
Also, what’s the company culture like? If the employees are just numbers to the organization, they may not care about your business either. Look for a payroll provider that treats its staff with respect and empowers them to deliver top-notch service. The people behind the service should be as motivated as you are to keep your business compliant and efficient.
Key questions to ask:
The next factor to evaluate is their platform or technology. A payroll provider's product must be user-friendly, efficient, and reliable. You don’t want to deal with outdated or clunky software that causes delays or errors.
Ask if their platform is easy to configure for your specific needs. If you have a special request, how quickly can they implement it? A well-built system should make the entire payroll process smoother, from submission to reporting.
Key questions to ask:
The third element is the process, especially when it comes to getting support on payroll day. Does the company have a structured onboarding process for new clients? What happens after you’ve been onboarded? You want to ensure that your payroll provider has a clear, consistent process, especially for crucial tasks like submitting payroll.
A lot of companies lack standard operating procedures, leading to inconsistent experiences based on who is handling your account. Ask about their processes for answering questions, resolving issues, and maintaining a smooth service experience. You should get the same level of service every time, no matter who is on the other end of the line.
Key questions to ask:
When evaluating a payroll company, don’t just look at the price. Dive deeper into these three core areas: people, product, and process. Choosing a payroll provider that excels in these areas will give you confidence that your payroll runs smoothly, your compliance is secure, and your team has the support they need.
Ready to see how Baron Payroll measures up? Contact us today to learn more about our people, product, and process—and how we can streamline your payroll experience.