PEO : How to Choose One

The right PEO (professional employer organization) can help your small business thrive. 

Each year, PEOs assist more than 170,000 small businesses with their human resources and administrative needs. Small businesses that utilize PEOs reap numerous benefits, including cost savings, time savings, increased benefit options, improved functionality, peace of mind, growth, and less turnover. Partnering with a PEO is an easy decision, but with dozens of different companies to choose from, selecting the right one can be difficult. Here are a few things to keep in mind as your begin the selection process.

Things Consider Before Choosing a PEO

• Before you begin your search, determine your business’ needs. Not all PEOs offer the same assistance, so you will want to know if your needs align with their services.
• Ask for PEO referrals from other businesses, your local chamber of commerce, and trade organizations.
• Research a variety of local and national companies to help you narrow down your choices. Check their websites or reach out to ask for their promotional materials.
• Ask to meet with them in person or virtually. Treat this meeting like an interview and ask questions to help you better understand their business, company culture, and services.
• Verify their license, certifications, and affiliations to ensure they are a reputable business.

Questions to Ask Potential PEOs
When meeting with potential PEOs, consider asking them these questions to find the best fit for your business:

1. How long have you been in business?
2. What types of licenses, certifications, and accreditations does your company have?
3. Do your employees have any credentials, and what are their training requirements?
4. Do you specialize in specific industries?
5. Can you explain the different types of services your offer?
6. What does your service agreement entail?
7. What is your cost/fee structure?
8. What services are included, and which are an additional cost?
9. Will I be able to increase or change my PEO services as my company grows?
10. What type of technology and software does your company use?
11. How do you ensure data security?
12. Do you provide training or professional development opportunities?
13. Why should I choose your company over others?
14. Can you provide me with a list of references I can contact?
15. Can I meet with the team members who will be actively involved with or managing my account?

Are you Ready to Choose a PEO for your Small Business?
Choosing the right PEO to partner with may seem daunting, but it’s worth your time. By working with a reliable, reputable PEO, you can help your business grow. If you are ready to find a PEO that fits your business’ needs, consider Convergence Employee Leasing.

Convergence Employee Leasing has provided professional employer organization services to clients throughout Florida, Georgia, and Alabama for more than 15 years. We are dedicated to helping our clients build a successful business by providing solutions that fit their payroll, workers’ compensation coverage, Human Resources, and benefits administration needs. Contact us today with your questions or to find out more about how we can help your small business.