Here are some top tips on how to choose an accountant for your business
When it comes to managing your business finances, having a good accountant by your side can be a game-changer. Experienced accountants can really help you run and manage your business. There are lots of accountants to choose from so how do you know which one is right for you? Here we’ll discuss some of the key things to look for in a good accountant.
Choose an Accountant with relevant Industry Expertise
You should look for accountants with experience in your industry. Different industries have unique accounting requirements and regulations. It’s important to choose an accountant who is familiar with the specific challenges of your area of business. For example, if you run a healthcare practice you may want an accountant who has experience working with medical professionals and is familiar with healthcare industry practices and demands.
Wide Range of Accountancy Services
Another important factor to consider is the range of services offered by the accountant. Most businesses require tax preparation and need to supply HMRC with VAT returns. Businesses also require bookkeeping and payroll services and help with financial and business planning. Does your current accountant offer everything your business needs? Add-on services like Trust and Estate Planning, Research and Development Tax Credit, Tax Investigation Insurance and even Wealth Management services can help protect you and achieve your financial goals over the long term. Choosing an accountant that has expertise in more than core accountancy services can really help you over the long term.
A proactive approach
A good accountant should not only be reactive to your financial needs but also take a proactive approach to help you achieve your long-term goals. They should provide financial guidance to help you grow your business and maximise your wealth. Look for an accountant that’s always looking for ways to add value and help you achieve your financial objectives.
Make sure that your accountant has a good reputation
The accountant you choose should have a solid local reputation and a track record of satisfied clients. Look for online reviews and testimonials to get a good idea of the accountant’s level of service and expertise. You can also ask for references from past clients and even contact them directly to get a first-hand account of their experience working with the accountant.
Good communication skills are essential
Effective communication is key when working with an accountant. It’s one area that we regularly hear new clients complain about regarding their old accountants. Choose an accountant for your business that’s responsive, communicative, and able to explain complex financial concepts in easy-to-understand language. A good accountant should listen to you and be able to answer your questions accurately, quickly and to your complete satisfaction. You should never be left in a position where you don’t have a full understanding of any aspect of your business finances.
Accessibility
Does your accountant have flexible hours? Are they located close to your business? Are they easy to reach via email or phone? Do they answer the phone when you call? Are emails answered promptly? Do they call you back when they say they will? Most accountants work normal office hours. If you don’t work normal office hours, make sure that you discuss availability when you are choosing your accountant. We’re available outside normal office hours if clients need to get in touch in the evening or very early morning but not all accountancies are.
The right accountancy technology and tools
Technology such as Cloud Computing has revolutionised the accounting industry, and a good accountant should be up-to-date on the latest accounting tools and software. Look for an accountant who uses modern technology, such as current online accounting software to improve efficiency, ease of use and accuracy. This can save you time and money in the long run but also make it much easier to access important business information instantly.
Fees
Make sure you understand the accountant’s fee structure and billing methods before you begin working together. Some accountants charge hourly rates, while others may charge a flat fee or a percentage of your revenue. Look for an accountant who is transparent about their fees and billing practices, so you can avoid any surprises later on.
Trust
Finally, it’s important to choose an accountant who you feel comfortable with and can trust to handle your finances with integrity. Look for someone who is honest, ethical, and transparent, and who takes the time to get to know you and your business. A good accountant should be a trusted advisor and partner in your financial success.
Choosing the right accountant can be crucial to the success of your business. Callan are a Glasgow Accountant working with businesses all over Scotland. We believe that we offer a very cost-competitive range of accountancy services. We try extremely hard to make our clients happy and always aim to reach the high standard that we’ve described in this article. If you would like to talk to us about working together please call 0141 204 0930 to email us here.
