What Am I Waving Goodbye to if I Switch to a ‘Big Box’ Payroll Co.?

Plenty, assuming that personal service and customization are important to you. We lost a client to a ‘Big Box’ Payroll provider the other day. Such a shame. The Company in question offered a much cheaper price (no surprise) as long as they signed a long term contract. In that contract was also a non-disclosure. Wonder why that was? Simple, because when you get right down to it, most major payroll softwares pretty much do the same thing. It’s really the provider that makes the software come to life. If you don’t have anything else to offer, they always lead with an initial ‘special price’ and close with a contract and a few half-truths and promises sprinkled in for good measure. Your Internet provider probably does the same thing!

Many Independent providers like APlus will never make you sign a contract or insist on your loyalty before we deliver service. They want to be judged on every payroll. On paper, they’re also not the cheapest, but they do have the best overall value. So what are you waving goodbye to when you choose a ‘Big Box’ National Company over a local, independent payroll provider?

Let’s take a look:

Goodbye to Personal Service

Do you have the name of your Client Support Specialist?  Their direct email address? One of the main advantages of working with an independent payroll provider is the personalized customer service. These independent companies often offer a tailored approach, knowing their clients’ unique needs and providing customized solutions. In contrast, larger providers may offer standardized processes that can lead to a more impersonal experience.Direct communication with us means you’re speaking with someone who understands your business and its nuances. There’s no navigating through endless phone menus or speaking to a different representative each time. You have a direct line to someone who cares deeply about your success.

Goodbye to Flexibility

Independent providers typically have the flexibility to adapt their services to fit the specific requirements of their clients. Whether it’s customizing reports or integrating with their software, these providers can often accommodate special requests. Larger organizations, on the other hand, may have rigid systems and processes, limiting adaptability. This inflexibility can pose challenges for companies with unique payroll needs or those that require quick adjustments to their payroll systems.

Goodbye to Transparant Pricing

While larger payroll organizations might offer competitive pricing due to economies of scale, hidden costs can arise. Transitioning to a big box provider often involves additional fees for services that were previously included with an independent provider, like custom reports. Moreover, the initial setup and integration costs can be significant, negating any potential savings. Also, at the end of your contract, that ‘special pricing’? That’ll be the first to go.

Goodbye to the Freedom to Choose

Why is it the first thing Big Boxes do is put a contract in front of you? By signing, you’re giving up your freedom of choice for either 12 or 24 months. Regardless of the quality of the service given. Where’s the fun in that?

Goodbye to Freedom of Speech