An accountant should be for your business life, not just your tax year end. Rather than dipping into expert services to minimise your yearly tax bill, a long term partnership offers you a distinct business edge.
There are many reasons why people change accountants, mostly due to quality of service, high fees and poor communication. Ultimately, if you feel that the trust has gone, it’s time to move on. However, once you find a good one … an accountant who is proactively and genuinely interested in your business, stick with them! Here’s why it’s best to find an accountant whose knowledge and advice helps your business … and view them as a long term partner.
1. Value
It’s true – you get what you pay for. There may be cheaper accountants out there, but how often do they communicate with you? Are they proactive about getting to know you and your business? A cheaper service is probably ticking accuracy and compliance boxes rather than understanding your business goals and offering helpful, expert advice.
2. Professional rapport
It’s important that your accountancy team is excellent at its job. This is more important than feeling that the team is made up of nice people. The combination of the two is the ideal scenario. Do you have that blend with your accountants? If so, stay put.
3. Bespoke advice
An important reason to stay with your accountant is that they understand your business, saving you money and guiding you towards achieving your goals – as an individual and/or a business.
4. Added value
Accountancy extends beyond the completion of accounts and submission of tax returns. A long term accountant understands your journey and includes this knowledge when analysing your performance and planning your next steps. Regular advice and evaluation help you to stay in control, refine plans and minimise your tax liability. A long term accountant has a thorough understanding of your business. New teams spend valuable time ‘catching up’.
5. Keeping up to date
A trustworthy, professional accountant never stops learning. If your accountant has a credible, professional qualification, and maintains it via continual professional development, keep hold of them. Not all accounting qualifications are the same. Ask your accountant about their training. They should be open and proud about their professional accreditations. Is your accountant professionally trained and up to date? Great!
‘So many potential clients are most concerned about price,’ says Emily Bridges of re:accounts chartered accountants in Stevenage. “Of course fees must be fair, however it’s the value and service that are important. A long term accountant can make a genuine difference to your success. Over time, they become your biggest supporter!’
Would you like better service from your accountant?
Are you looking for a long term accountancy partner who’s keen to help you achieve your goals?
Talk to the friendly team at re:accounts. We’ll enjoy a jargon-free discussion without obligation. We’d love to get to know your current position and future gaols … and help you achieve them.
