Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been in business for a while, the financial health of your enterprise relies heavily on the expertise and skils of your accountant. While it might be tempting to go for the accountant with an office down the road, basing your decision solely on proximity might not be the best move… instead, it’s worth looking for an accountant who genuinely cares and understands your business.
Looking beyond proximity:
Sure, having an accountant nearby can be handy. It means you can pop in for a chat or drop off paperwork without too much hassle. But choosing based solely on location isn’t wise. Your business deserves more consideration than just convenience. Equally are all your customers in your postcode? Probably not right? So pick best not closest.
Understanding your business:
A good accountant won’t just crunch numbers; they’ll take the time to understand the ins and outs of your business – they’ll want to know about your challenges, your goals, and what makes your business tick. This deeper understanding allows them to offer advice, strategies and technology that is tailored to your specific needs.
Plus, they’ll be keen to have conversations with you, asking questions and seeking clarification where needed. This kind of dialogue is essential for building a strong working relationship and ensuring that both parties are on the same page.
Keeping the lines open:
Good communication is key in any business relationship. The right accountant will make sure to keep you in the loop about important financial matters, new technology and changes in regulations that might affect your business. And they won’t just wait for you to get in touch – they will be proactive.
You’ll also want someone who you can speak to over the phone, via email, or even face-to-face if needed. Accessibility (and openness to be accessible) ensures that you always have someone to turn to for advice and reassurance when you need it most.
Invested in your success:
The right accountant isn’t just in it for the paycheck; they genuinely want to see your business thrive. They’ll celebrate your successes with you and offer a helping hand when times get tough. Their goal shouldn’t just be to balance your books; it’s to help you grow and thrive in the long term.
The relationship shouldn’t stop at the financial side of things – look for someone who will look for ways to add value to your business, whether it’s through strategic advice, introductions to potential partners or clients, or suggestions for improvement.
Going the extra mile:
What else can they offer? Compliance is and will always be important but financial planning, advising on tax strategies, assisting with budgeting… a good accountant should be there every step of the way to help supercharge your business.
Building a partnership:
Choosing an accountant who cares about your business isn’t just about finding someone to crunch numbers. It’s about building a long-term partnership based on trust and mutual respect. By prioritising care over convenience, you’ll find an accountant who will be with you every step of the way, offering support, guidance, and expertise whenever you need it.
So, when it comes to picking an accountant for your business, don’t just go for the nearest one. Take the time to find someone who truly cares and understands your business and is committed to helping you succeed.
It might take a bit more effort, but the rewards will be well worth it in the end.
