When accounting becomes a lifelong endeavour, even routine processes turn into opportunities for growth. Ion Amaftioae, founder of iContabil and Microinvest client, proved this in practice by launching his company 5 years ago.
Find out from this interview how to establish clear communication with clients, why digitalization has become an integral part of work and what role the cooperation with Microinvest has played in the development.
Can you tell us how you started an accounting-related business?
Since childhood, I have dreamed of becoming an entrepreneur. When it came time to choose a specialty at university, I met a friend who had graduated in accounting. I asked him what an accountant does, and he replied: “Counts other companies’ money”. Then I decided that it was right for me. Already as a student I started working as an assistant accountant – at first on a voluntary basis, to gain experience, but eventually I started to get paid. Then I got a job at a company where I grew to the position of team leader of a 22 accountants’ team in four years. In 2019, I felt I was ready for the next step, to start my own business and work for myself. This is how iContabil was founded.
What services does your company provide?
iContabil is a company that has been providing accounting and financial consultancy services in Moldova for over 5 years. We provide accounting, cost optimization and financial growth planning services. Our goal: to increase the efficiency and profitability of companies from different sectors. We ensure accurate financial management in compliance with tax requirements. We try to approach each client individually. We use modern tools to simplify processes and save time. We are valued for our professionalism and clear, honest approach.
Ion, what challenges do you meet in your business?
The biggest challenge in accounting is communication between the accountant and the entrepreneur. Often, they speak as if they were in different languages: one in the language of numbers and reports, the other in the language of business and tasks. This can easily lead to misunderstandings. At iContabil, we try to explain everything as simply and clearly as possible, down to the last detail. Our goal is for the client not just to receive a service, but to really understand what is happening with their finances. Then both trust and results are completely different.
Do you think that loans are important in entrepreneurship? How do you like working with Microinvest?
Finance for business is like blood for the organism: one doesn’t work without the other. When I needed financing, I searched for a long time for a reliable partner who could offer a good price and conditions. My choice fell on Microinvest, and I am happy with this decision. The speed and attitude to the client were at the highest level. Within a few days I received the necessary amount of money to renovate the office, buy equipment, furniture, create a comfortable atmosphere for both employees and clients. Over several years in business, I have realised that loans are a real tool for growth. The main thing is to use it wisely.
What is the secret to success in business?
I am sure that success comes when you are focused and truly passionate about your business. It is important to pay attention not only to the development of the company, but also to the team and clients. In one year, we managed to grow from 40 to 100 clients. This was the result of constant work: meetings, discussions, advertising campaigns. All this took a lot of time and effort. But most importantly, these resources were invested in the right direction, and the result was worth it. I made a clear conclusion for myself: if you are open, responsive, offer solutions on time and are really involved in the client’s tasks, you will be chosen and recommended further. Of course, it is important to have reliable partners who believe in you and help you grow. With Microinvest it becomes possible.
*Microinvest is the only financial organization in Moldova that holds the international GOLD certificate in the field of customer protection. This signifies a responsible and transparent lending process, fair and transparent financing, and a constructive approach to any request.
