Entrepreneurs and small business owners are often focused exclusively on getting a business up and running. They work hard to put the people, processes, and policies in place that will get the business off the ground and keep it running for the foreseeable future. It’s critical to the company’s success to have the right players on the management team. That includes an accountant who understands the business and knows how to navigate the swirl of tax issues that come with any new startup.
Looking for Someone to Trust
When it’s time to find an accountant, how do you go about it? To get you going in the right direction, here are a few tips from the pros at Adams Accounting Solutions. They’re the experts when it comes to small business taxes and accounting. Following these tips will increase the likelihood of finding someone you can trust who will become an integral part of your management team.
Tip #1: Ask for Referrals
One of the best ways to find a reputable accountant is to ask others you do business with. Word of mouth and personal experience often lead to the best choice, and bankers, investment professionals, and attorneys frequently work with accountants. Start here for referrals to the accountants they know and like the most.
If you have connections with other business owners, they’re also a good source of referrals. Ask who they use. If their accountant does a good job, they’ll be happy to tell you about it. The reverse is also true. If they’ve had a bad experience, you’ll hear about that, too.
Tip #2: Check Credentials
Anyone who graduates college with an accounting degree can hang a shingle with their name on it. For your new business, you’ll want to look for a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). The CPA designation means the accountant has gone through additional training — a rigorous, two-day standardized test — to prove their knowledge and capability. Many CPA programs also require an advanced degree. You’ll want this level of expertise and professionalism on your side.
Tip #3: Conduct Interviews
The next step is to conduct interviews with your top choices. This doesn’t have to be a formal meeting, although it may be a good idea to visit their office to see what it looks and feels like. You can also talk to potential candidates over the phone. Ask questions about their background, how they work with clients, and the types of accounting they specialize in. Compare that to your needs. Once you’ve completed this step, you’ll probably have a good idea of who you want to work with.
Adams Accounting Solutions Is On Your Side
If you’re looking for an accountant you can trust with your startup business, give us a call at Adams Accounting Solutions. We specialize in helping small businesses keep the money they work so hard to bring in. Contact us to schedule a consultation to learn more about our services or get your questions answered. We look forward to joining the team!
