Choosing an accountant is one of the biggest decisions you will make as a business owner. It is right up there with your first hire or signing your first lease. But let’s be real, navigating the sea of grey suits and confusing jargon can feel a bit daunting.
At PPF, we are firm believers that your accountant should not just be someone you “have” to deal with once a year. They should be a cornerstone of your business, a partner who is as buzzed about your growth as you are.
If you are trying to find “The One,” here is the roadmap to help you solve the puzzle.
Step 1: The “Ask Yourself” Audit 🧐
Before you start searching, you need to know what you are actually looking for. Take a second to think about:
- Location vs Logic: With cloud software and Zoom, your accountant does not need to be local anymore! However, if you prefer face to face meetings over a coffee, look for someone nearby.
- The Service Level: Do you want a fully managed package where you can just focus on running your business, or are you just looking for someone to “tick the boxes” at year end?
- Specialist Needs: Does your business have a niche? It can be a game changer to find an accountant who already speaks your industry’s language and knows its specific quirks.
Step 2: The Interview (Questions to Ask Them!) 🎓
When you meet a potential accountant, do not be afraid to dig into the details. Here is what you should be asking:
- What software do you use? You want someone who embraces cloud software. We are huge Xero fans because it lets us both access your numbers in real time.
- How do you charge? Is it a fixed fee or an hourly rate? Do they charge extra for a quick phone call or an email? (At PPF, we use Socket to give you clear, fixed fee proposals. With our “open door policy,” there will not be any surprise bills for simply asking a question!)
- Are you actually qualified? This is a biggie. Many people set up as accountants without the right credentials. Look for AAT, ACA, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA, ICAS, or ICAEW. They should have a valid licence to practise and do not be afraid to ask to see it!
- Can I speak to a reference? Any accountant worth their salt should be happy to provide client feedback. If they are unwilling to let you talk to their current clients, with their permission first of course, that should set off some major alarm bells! 🚩
Step 3: Remember Value Over “Cheap” 💎
We get it, budget matters. But a “cheap” accountant can be the most expensive mistake you make if they miss tax savings or give you dodgy advice.
Think of a great accountant as an investment in your sanity and your future. Quality and commitment should always outweigh the monthly fee.
Ready for an accounting partner who is actually on your team?
If you have done your “audit” and realised you want a proactive partner who makes your life easier, we would love to chat.
Complete our Quick Questionnaire and book in a discovery call today!
