If you have your own business or are planning to start one, finding an accountant you trust is one of the most important elements for success. This is because it is your accountant who you will look to for advice and guidance at any stage of business operation.
Reference Check
In the same way that you would look for reviews before buying a product, you also need to find an accountant that has positive recommendations from others in similar situations. Doing so will quickly reveal what the accountant does best, and whether this aligns with the type of guidance you are looking for.
Adaptability
Time and time again you will meet accountants who are still using pen and paper or the oldest version of accounting software. Despite the amount of experience they may have, accountants who aren’t keeping abreast with technological advancements in the industry are going to put you behind in your own reporting and awareness. To find out if your accountant uses Xero, QuickBooks or other software necessary, take a look at their website to see if they are listed as a certified partner.
Client Base
If you don’t have much knowledge in accounting you may be thinking that all accountants do the same thing, but this is simply a misconception. Although the basis of accountant’s work is around tax, exactly which clients they specialise in could make or break the quality of their service. For instance, some accountants deal mostly with individual tax, while others are equipped with small and large businesses. There is also the matter of industry, as some accountants may only have knowledge on businesses in construction, while any good accountant firm will have a diverse array of clients and industry knowledge.
Relationship
It doesn’t take long after first starting to work with an accountant to determine what kind of relationship you have with them. Ideally you will want to feel valued and listened to with any concerns or requests, and not just like another number. A good accountant will establish an easy line of communication, either through assigning a client manager to help you or other means. Your accountant should also be able to communicate freely to provide you with the best possible advice, rather than taking action only for their own benefit.
At iBusiness Group, our accountants have over 19 years of experience with business clients that range from cafes to cattle stations. Our training in numerous accounting software and dedication to maintaining positive client-manager relationships is what puts our firm in the perfect position to assist new and existing business owners. Contact us today to find out more about how we can help you 1300 587 985.