Beth Smith, Managing Member, Johnson, Smith & Associates, PLLC
At Johnson, Smith & Associates (JSA), our focus is on our clients. We wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for them. We place a tremendous emphasis on customer service at JSA, and our clients appreciate that. My partner, who is also my husband, and I have been in the accounting world for almost 30 years each. There have been a lot of changes during that time. It brings us a great sense of accomplishment to have helped our clients weather those changes and remain successful.
ON POWER
People often underestimate the power of a smile and kind words. These two simple gestures can have a profound impact on anyone or in any situation. Whether you’re dealing with family members, business associates or friends, you can literally make their day with a smile.
I felt most powerful when I volunteered as a Wayfinder at UAMS and helped patients and visitors find their way around the hospital and campus. It was a very fulfilling experience. A true sign of power is the ability to give of oneself without the expectation of anything in return.
ON MOTIVATION
I love meeting people, getting to know them and working with them. People fascinate me, and I strive to learn something from everyone I come in contact with. It’s amazing what you can learn if you just stop and listen. Helping people makes me happy, whether it’s through the accounting firm or with my volunteer work.
Career goal? To complete the requirements for the Certified Financial Planner™ designation. It would give me the ability to add another level of service to my clients.
ON SUCCESS
Life is about the journey not the destination, so I strive to give 100 percent of my time and talents every day.
WEEKEND SCHEDULE
I’m definitely an early riser. If I’m not up by about 6:30 a.m., it feels like half the day has been wasted. We try to go to Pinnacle Saturday morning, and my goal is to make it to the top without stopping. I go to yoga class after that, then do lots of errands! We sometimes have date night Saturday night. Sunday is church and then finish whatever errands and chores are leftover from Saturday. We try to have a family dinner Sunday night, then plan everything that has to be done the next week.
THE QUIZ
Hobbies outside of work?
Gardening, water sports, walking, cooking
(Back to Soirée’s 2011 Women to Watch)