Getting the right financial expert on your team is a crucial decision for small businesses, especially in a climate where 50% of new businesses fail within the first year. Having a good accountant could be the difference maker.
It’s hard enough to start a business, it’s another thing entirely to find an accountant and on top of that, the right one. I can’t tell you how many messes I’ved cleaned up for my clients because an accountant or financial expert didn’t do their due diligence the first time around.
But as with all professions, you get the good with the bad. It’s up to you as a business owner to find the right accountant for your needs.
These are the kinds of questions you should ask yourself to secure the perfect person for your team.
What is their experience?
This goes without saying but make sure you know your accountant’s educational and professional background. Don’t be afraid to ask them about prior work experiences. Look at their Linkedin profiles and move forward. Approach this search like an interview because that’s exactly what it is, you’re hiring someone to join your team. Approach it delicately and with care.
How do they talk about their services?
Are they enthusiastic and interested in their work? Do they sound like they are passionate about what they do? Now, I know numbers might not be the most exhilarating topic but do they look genuinely interested in helping you? Are they attentive and responding to your questions thoroughly and clearly? Do they seem like they are making an effort? Pay attention to body language, facial expressions and other cues. Trust your gut and only work with someone you feel will put their all into helping you.
What do their recommendations look like?
Do they have a Yelp page? A website? A social media account? Are there clear and accessible reviews online about their service? Are they proudly sharing reviews and recommendations on their websites or social accounts? What are the reviews actually saying? This is essential – don’t skip over minor details. If you see something reoccuring in reviews that’s less than favorable, it probably means it’s true. Also, use your discretion in trusting sources and comments. Steer clear of ‘too-good-to-be-true’ comments and impossible promises. You can never go wrong as long as you keep your expectations realistic and reasonable while you do your research. Also, if something you read in a review peaks your attention, ask them about it when you get on that initial call with them.
Who are they connected to?
Find out if they are a part of any professional organizations, what kind of business events they attend/create and leadership positions they hold outside of work. Are they involved in their communities? Do they work with other accountants or financial experts in the area? It’s okay to look up more information about an accountant you’re vetting – don’t be afraid to google and cruise social media accounts to get a sense of who they are.
There is no right or wrong answer for any of these questions, but the information may be relevant for you when selecting an accountant that is right for you and your business. Figure out what your deal breakers and must-haves are, have a clear head and I guarantee you’ll find the right person for the job.
I am passionate in helping small businesses who have been up and running for at least a few years grow their profits by utilizing financials to make strategic business decisions throughout the year. We make sure taxes are filed, bookkeeping is kept monthly, quarterly reviews hold them accountable, and payroll process runs without any hiccups. My clients have access to me all year-long because I know the value of playing offense and not just handling tasks after the fact defensively. If you own a 6-figure service based business and ready to chat, book a call with me and let’s see if it’s a good fit.
To more money in our pockets.
Chika
PS: Whenever you’re ready, here are three ways my team and I can help you with your accounting & taxes so you can gain peace of mind while growing your business:
1. I’m going live in my Facebook Group this Tuesday 12pm PST to answer all your questions. Yep that’s right, a LIVE Q&A with me! Join myprivate #ChikasTaxTips FB group, a curated community exclusively for full-time entrepreneurs who desire to learn accounting & tax best practices while growing their business Click here to join the group (note: you must answer the questions in order to be considered).
2. Tune into my world on Instagram. To sum my page up in 5 ways: social outings, yoga all day, travel, motivational quotes, funny shit. If you connect with any of those, then follow me on IG! @ChikaObihCPA
3. Work with me and my team privately. If you are a 6-figure business owner looking for a CPA to take care of all things numbers as Your Online CFO (bookkeeping, tax returns, payroll, business formation, business compliance, tax planning, budgeting & projections, etc)… just use this link to book a call… tell me a little about your business and what you’d like to work on together, and I’ll get you all the details.
