Don’t view your accountant as just an accountant
A good accountant will offer you the services you need to be compliant, but a great accountant will proactively offer you support to develop and grow. Accountants have a wealth of business experience that businesses should take advantage of.
Get the most out of your accountant by investing in better software…
Poor bookkeeping and internal accounting systems can lead to your accountant charging more because they are required to spend more time correcting mistakes. There is a wide range of accounting software on the market today, which is user friendly and inexpensive. A great accountancy practice will offer training to support your internal accounting, helping to reduce the time taken to complete your accounts, whilst also enabling you to keep one step ahead and plan for the future.
Look to the future rather than the past
Most businesses use their accountant for the sole purpose of providing historical accounts with a ‘true and fair’ view. However, a great accountant will use this information to look forward to the future and focus on where you would like your business to go.
Benefit from value-added services
Countless accountants focus on the basic legal compliances that every business has to adhere too. Great accountant’s offer added value services, which are much more than mere compliance such as flagging up new business opportunities and informing you of tax breaks that could help your business.
Picking a firm that is RIGHT for you and your business
Be selective when choosing the right firm for you AND your business. Several big-name firms have a presence up and down the country; however they struggle to offer one to one contact, meaning you could deal with a different person every time you contact them. If your accountant doesn’t understand you and your business, they can’t help you in achieving your business goals.
Similarly, picking a firm too small for you can be just as detrimental. Small firms can be great for start-ups and smaller businesses, but as your business grows and develops it will require more services some of which a small firm won’t be able to offer. You may require the services of a firm who are experts in your sector or a firm who has a proven track record of helping businesses to change and grow.
Have a clear growth plan
It is essential for every viable business to have a clear financial plan so if your business falls on challenging times you already have a solid financial framework to guide you through. A great accountant will support you and offer proactive advice to encourage the development of your growth plan.
Leonherman: Working for you
Here at Leonherman, we believe we tick all of these boxes and work hard to understand what your needs are now and for the future. Please do not hesitate to get in touch partners@leonherman.co.uk or call us on 0161 249 5040 for more information.
