Today we’d like to introduce you to Joshua Santana.
Joshua, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
The story regarding my accounting company begins with my father, Ray Santana, whom planted the seed to create Santana & Associates in 1990. As many people may encounter, starting a business can be challenging and my father was no exception to the journey. Yet, because of his passion and determination to assist people, especially in low-income residences in Houston, he pushed forward to make his dream of owning his own business a reality. Santana & Associates became a company to serve the public with accounting knowledge and assistance in fulfilling their tax necessities. With further pride, the staff makes it a priority to make clients feel welcomed and pleased with services provided to them. These are some of the many standards my father wanted to include in his company in order to provide taxpayers with a trusting and inviting setting. Seeing my father’s determination in his career and joy for life motivated me to attend the University of Houston to obtain a bachelor’s degree in accounting and extended my knowledge in the field by becoming certified as an Enrolled agent. After serving the public for over 25 years, my father passed away in 2014 leaving behind a growing company that I was blessed to inherit at the age of 27, in order to carry on his dream. I was fortunate enough to gain knowledge from my father about the field, and in addition to that, life in general. After his passing, not only have I made it a goal to successfully grow Santana & Associates, but to also help others along the way.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
As a CEO of a growing company, it is clear that it is almost never a smooth road. The struggles that have come my way such as financial issues, building repairs, personal doubts, just to name a few; all have a daily impact on the success of the company. In addition to this particular question, I would like to address what gets me through such conditions? And what inspires me to continue moving forward? First and for most, my faith gives me strength in understanding that I am given these hurdles for a reason, and although I inherited the company, it does not mean that I shouldn’t struggle. My parents, whom provided me with a foundation to stay humble and work hard. My wife, who on a daily basis encourages me to move beyond the struggles in order to see the bigger picture. Lastly, people who survive from dire circumstances and are still able to challenge themselves and view the world with positivity. With the inspiring individuals in my life, and the fortunate opportunities given to me, I am forever grateful.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Santana and Associates – what should we know?
The goal that is set for Santana & Associates is to be a professional company that provides the public with great quality, efficient accounting services and to lessen the overwhelming tax process for clients. In order to provide such service, the staff is trained extensively to remain current on all tax updates by attending annual seminars offered by accredited Internal Revenue Services. Furthermore, frequent staff meetings are held to address employee concerns, and methods to professionally satisfy taxpayer needs. Not only do I take pride in viewing some of the accomplishments in my company thus far, but also my committed staff. Honestly, if it were not the employees whom each have at least 10 years invested in Santana & Associates, the company would not be where it is today. I believe my dedicated staff is one of the factors that sets my company apart from others. Frequently I hear about turnaround rates in small and big companies, and unsatisfied clients who have issues meeting with different employees who are not familiar with their financial history. Fortunately, our clients have benefited from remaining connected during the year and ever tax year with my consistent staff. The staff and I are devoted into giving clients our undivided attention, and taking the time to patiently inform them about the tax process. I specialize in tax accounting from individual to corporate tax accounting.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
The quality and characteristic that I see is most important to my success is my desire to want more in life (having a goal), not wanting to settle. I think about if I get to this achievement then I have another achievement that I want to accomplish. My goals do not reflect how much monetary growth I personally make but the change I have done in not only my life but the people around me.
Something that I also think is very important is having the “yes I can” mentality. I have doubted myself many times or think that this is going to be a nerve wrecking year but I would acknowledge the obstacle and tell my-self-that nothing is impossible and not look back.
Contact Info:
- Address: 7050 East Freeway Suite 2A Houston TX 77020
- Website: www.SantanaAcct.com
- Phone: 713-678-8627
- Email: contact@santanaAcct.com
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