So you have made the decision to get an account for your small business, but how do you go about getting the right fit for your needs? Not all accounts are the same, some will do a better job, others will mesh better with you, and of course, some are more expensive than others. We spoke to financial wizard and high level accountant Barry Bulakites, on what you need to ask yourself ahead of looking for an accountant. As Barry says, only once you understand what you are looking for, can you begin the process of getting the right person for the job.
Is Location Important ?
The first thing to think about is how important it is to you that the accountant lives or works nearby. We live in a world now where our financial reports can be stored and access from a cloud-based system, we can hold meetings through Skype or other video calling options, and we can constantly stay in touch through messenger services and emails. There are some businesses however who may need to see the accountant physically, or some owners who simply prefer this option, consider this first.
What Are You Looking For?
Some accountants can be a Jack of all trades, others may focus on individual aspects of the company accounts, you need to think about what exactly you are looking for in an accountant. For example many people simply want to use an accountant to clean up their books and add al little more organization to proceedings, others may seek out an accountant to offer financial advice on growth and investments, and some will want their money to work harder for them. Once you understand exactly what it is that you are looking for, the process becomes far easier.
Tax
At the very least you need to be looking for an accountant who completely understands the work do taxation. Even if everything is above board with your taxes, it makes sense to have an accountant who, regardless of their speciality, can help you and the company to stay in line with its taxes, and ensure that you are paying the right amount, and saving where possible.
Is Reputation Important?
The strength of an accountant’s reputation will directly relate with the amount that they are charging per hour, and you need to decide whether or not you need the very best, or would you be prepared to take a chance on a rookie. This is not to say that a rookie is unqualified to do the job, it simply means that they can’t call on a long track record of success. Everyone has to start somewhere and there is no issue with looking for someone who is a little less experienced. Alternately if you really want to place your trust and your money in someone, perhaps an experienced accountant may be the better option.
Answer these questions and then go get that accountant for your business.
