FIVE Ways to get the Most out of Your Accountant
Most people treat a visit or a phone call with their accountant the same way they treat a trip to the dentist – with varying levels of dread, but knowing that it’s important and necessary.
We sure hope you don’t feel that way when you call us – but if you do, you’d better let me know so I can tell the team to take off their white coats and put the drill away before your next visit.
Seriously though, gone are the days where an accountant just manages your books. And sure, come this time of year we help you get the most out of your tax return, but there is so much more we can do to help you build a better business, manage your finances, and plan and build your business goals.
It’s all about getting the most out of your relationship with us. Here are just some of the ways we can offer you more value, or help you work through a sticky problem.
1 Come prepared
Preparation is key.
Think about what you want to get out of your accountant. If you can’t think of anything other than ‘tax stuff’, maybe dig a little deeper. Do your research and don’t be afraid to also ask us what we offer – there may be services we can provide that you didn’t even know existed!
Did you know, for example that we are Cloud accounting experts and were recently awarded a Clouds Best Practice Certification? We also have experience with running a virtual office and outsourcing.
My expertise? Most of you know that I just love a good business strategy session!
Once you’ve sussed out what you want, make a list of questions to ask us – it can be easy to forget things in the heat of the moment, so having a check list will help you maximise your (and our) time.
2 Seek our business advice (before you leap)
Accountants know business. We deal with the nuts and bolts of it every day so we know what works and what doesn’t. Take the time to tap into our knowledge base.
Starting and running your own business can be a daunting process, but you don’t have to do it alone. We can coach you on what form and direction your business should take, assist with business plans and help put in place actions to achieve your goals.
We can assist you with budgeting, bookkeeping strategies, tax planning, auditing and business strategy advice, even legal advice if you need it. We are here to help you establish and achieve goals and take your business in new directions by helping you to determine what might be the best way forward.
3 Tap into our networks
If it’s all about ‘who you know’ in this world then your accountant is a good place to start!
Most accountants are connected with bankers, lawyers and other professionals who might be helpful to you and your business.
There is no harm in asking us for introductions. We may even have other like-minded clients from your industry who could become useful contacts.
4 Help us to help you
Most good accountants have a lot on their plate so every minute counts. The more organised you are, the quicker we can complete your task, leaving more time for expanding and improving your business – not to mention saving you money.
Some simple ways you can help include:
- Keep your own records and documents neat and organised
- Have any required documents ready to go
- Answer our questions quickly and accurately
- Action any recommendations quickly to save the need for follow-ups
- Ask us for housekeeping advice.
Basically, if you keep your side of things ticking over it makes life a whole lot easier for us, and we will thank you for it.
5 Remember, we’re on your side!
A good accountant can be one of the greatest partnerships to have in business.
When you are your own boss it can be tough doing it all on your own – creating a relationship with an accountant who has a vested interest in your business and who wants to see you succeed is one of the best things you can do to help you thrive.
So make the most of your accountant and utilise us at every point. Whether you’re thinking of a change in business direction, or you’re well established and just want to know that you’re on the right track, we can help.
And above all, don’t ever be afraid to ask us questions! That is what we are here for. Be clever with your creative industry business and if you have an issue on your mind, give US a call NOW on 02 9564 5885.
