A good accountant always has positive word-of-mouth, but if the information doesn’t reach the leader due to a lack of networking, the search for the rare gem can be part of the warrior’s journey.
What criteria should you consider when choosing the right accountant, the one who will become your preferred advisor? Focus on the 5 rules you should follow before signing with the first one you meet.
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Choose your accountant: follow the 5 rules proposed by the blog SAV 35.
1 — THE PREFERRED FIELD OF ACTIVITY OF YOUR AUDITOR
The preferred field of activity of your auditor
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Audit firms often target the same type of client, depending on the nature of their business. This allows them to immediately see the consistency of their management quotas with those of the relevant sector.
You know the regulations, the specialized partners. You immediately understand what your needs will be and what your daily accounting will look like. If you work in a regulated or very specific profession (catering, construction…), make sure your accountant knows your field!
2 — THE SIZE OF THE COMPANY
Many accounting firms work with the same type of client, not only in terms of industry but also in terms of company size. For example, some specialize in SMEs and small businesses.
If this is the case, connect with this type of expert rather than seeking a prestigious firm with large corporate clients. You will not only align with their rates, but more importantly, your expert will be accustomed to the issues of a small business.
3 — BEYOND THE TRADITIONAL SERVICES OF AN AUDITOR
What are the advantages of an auditor
The profession of auditor is to record your transactions chronologically, prepare the annual financial statements of the company, file tax returns, and conduct accounting audits. Beyond these services, make sure to know their expertise and availability in the topics that concern you.
When hiring, ensure they take care of payroll. If you are seeking help in the startup phase of a business, the expert can guide you through the registration formalities and the corresponding credit institutions. They can also deploy management dashboards tailored to your structure, assignment, succession, or change of status.
Beyond being an accounting service provider, they can become a true tax and financial advisor… as long as they have sufficient availability and the necessary skills!
If you are looking for international development, make sure your expert is proficient in this area. Are there partners in the countries you are focusing on? Do they know the regulations and obligations of exporting companies?
4 — The geographical proximity of your accountant
Despite new technologies, in case of an emergency or specific need, it is often important to meet your accountant face-to-face. If only for the quality of the exchange! It would be a shame to waste precious time in transit. Prefer a firm close to you.
Don’t forget to check the accountant’s availability, as it is of no use to have a good accountant nearby if they are never available to assist their clients!
5 — SOFTWARE USED BY THE AUDIT FIRM
What are the advantages of an auditor
Many companies work digitally through exchange platforms accessible to business managers.
This method is very convenient. It would be unfortunate if your expert still works “the old-fashioned way,” as this kind of tool is becoming widespread. Find out what software they use and ensure it is compatible with your IT setup.
These 5 criteria, essential for choosing the expert, will never replace relational criteria. Your feeling remains the priority. After pre-selecting a few firms, you can meet them individually (often the first meetings are free). Do you feel secure? Does the expert emphasize their availability for you? Do they seem to understand your needs as well as the issues in your sector? This might be the right choice!