Whatever your reasons for wanting to hire an accountant, whether it’s for advice on self-employment taxes, small business accounting help, or simply because you run your own accounting firm and you’re looking for an extra pair of hands, it’s important that they are the right person or business for the job. Have a look at some of the things you should know before hiring your first accountant.
1. Different Accountants Offer Different Services
While it may be a little obvious, accountants do specialize in different industries, so it’s important you hire an accountant that’s perfect for the needs of your business. Whether you need a bookkeeper, payroll assistant, or just someone to help with your small business accounting issues, know what you need before you hire.
2. They Need to Be Qualified
Different qualifications are available for different jobs in the accounts industry. Many accountants will hold at least an online bachelors of accounting – so be sure to ask them for proof of any qualifications before you hire. Different states have different requirements for accountants to practice, so it’s always worth contacting your local business advice service to see what qualifications are needed.
3. Experienced Accountants Will Save You More Money
Just because an accountant has a bachelors degree in accounting, it doesn’t make them an instant fit for the job you need to hire them for. Accountants learn about different loopholes and more tricks to save you money over a lengthy career, so they should be the accountants on your shortlist. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t hire a graduate; it just means you should look at their level of experience as a deciding factor if you have two candidates perfect for the role.
4. Top Accountants Will Have Top References
Sometimes, hiring a top accountant just isn’t a viable option, so settling for someone that doesn’t have as much experience or quality is the only way forward. However, there are still many top accountants out there who are reasonably priced and they still have good references to prove they can undertake the work to an excellent level.
5. Most Accountants Provide Business Advisory Services
If you’re really looking to grow your business, getting advice from business minded individuals that have been in the game for a long time is an effective way to do that. Accountants aren’t just good with numbers. Many of them will have extensive business experience when it comes to the industry you’re serving. Take advantage of this by getting advice on financial planning and use their business planning services if they offer one.
Of course, knowing the above doesn’t necessarily guarantee you an excellent accounting service, but it’s always going to provide you with the knowledge you need when it comes to picking the right person or business. If the accountant has relevant degrees and they have plenty of experience in accounting, there’s no reason why they shouldn’t have excellent references and plenty of added business services that can improve your business.
