Like with many areas of business there is always a lot of choices. When looking for an accountant for your business it is no different. There are so many accountants out there. So, how do you know who to pick and work with?
These tips are designed to help you get the relevant information to make an informed decision on what is best for your business.
Location
Is location important for you? It isn’t for everyone but many businesses want an accountant that is within a comfortable travelling distance. Meeting your accountant regularly is essential for many business owners but not all, so you want to decide if the location is a factor to consider.
Qualified or Unqualified
In the UK there is no requirement needed to call yourself an accountant. However, chartered accountants are qualified specialists who can often offer services that go beyond the traditional accountancy remit, to support you more fully in your business venture. Chartered accountants must be a member of one of the following:
- The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales
- The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants
- The Institute of Chartered Accountants for Scotland
- Chartered Accountants Ireland
A chartered accountant must also pass examinations, needs work experience, and those wanting to work with the public and not as employees need to obtain a ‘practicing certificate’ along with some additional requirements.
Expertise
Some accountants have more experience in certain sectors and industries. Some specialise in certain fields as well, so it is worth checking what sort of relevant expertise your shortlisted accountants have.
Ask Others
Make use of your network and connections to speak to other business owners. You would normally trust recommendations from friends and family for places to eat, places to visit, and more. Choosing an accountant is no different.
What do you need them to do?
You might want an accountant to do everything for you. Collect all your invoices and receipts, hand them over, and let the accountant do the rest. A good accountant should have the interests of your business at heart and be honest about which of their services will benefit your business most. If you only need a few services, check first and make sure this is possible.
If you’re looking for a advice to help significantly shape or grow your business, some accountants can act as a personal finance director. In this case, you’re looking for higher expertise so it’s a good idea to narrow your search to chartered accountants
Meet more than one
It is not often you get just one quote for something and go with it. Speak to different accountants and get different prices for the work you need. It will also give you the chance to see how well you get on with them and make sure personalities match.
Hear from their clients
Discuss with businesses that already use the accountants you’re interested in and see what they say it is like working with them. There may also be client testimonies on their website – like a recommendation from a friend, this is a great indicator of happy clientele and good delivery of services.
Take your time
You don’t need to rush into a decision. Make sure you take the time to consider the choices and make the right selection.
If you’d like to find out more about what CBHC can do for you, we’d love to hear from you. If you’re looking for accountants in Chelmsford you can trust, call us today.
