If you have decided to finally hire an accountant, your next decision is crucial. What should you look for when choosing an accountant? After all, you need someone capable enough to handle your business and finances.
Here are some things to look for when choosing a new accountant:
1. Location
In today's world, location is not a dealbreaker. You can choose an accountant who does not live in the same geographical location as you. Cloud technology means that both you and your accountant will have access to real-time data, despite your location.
However, if you want to hire an accountant with who you can have face-to-face interaction and can be physically present to deal with your company, you will need to consider their location and where they are based. Make sure to hire someone who is an expert in your local taxes that apply to your company.
2. Certified or Chartered Accountant?
Usually, accountants are regulated by professional authorities who overlook accounting qualifications and maintain a high professional standard. Professional accountants are Certified Public Accountants or Chartered Accountants. A Chartered Accountant (CA) is a highly qualified professional who has completed his accounting degree and has work experience.
The greater the experience and knowledge an accountant has, the more he can contribute to your company from the very start. If you expect your business to grow, hiring an accountant from the start is the right decision.
A certified, professional accountant can overlook tasks such as bookkeeping, tax preparation, and general financial management with ease. If your business ever requires a loan, you will need a professional accountant to guide you through the pros and cons of acquiring a loan.
3. Expertise
Hiring someone with expertise relevant to your business is crucial. Someone with experience will be able to guide you through the process of tax returns and financial documents. If your business is more focused on cloud-based software for its workings, you will need to find someone who is tech-savvy and has prior experience with cloud computing.
Hiring someone who has worked with a company that had a similar market sector is even better. This will help them understand and adapt to the needs of your business. If the accountant has worked with big clients in the past, he will be able to handle your company's growing needs in the future.
4. Tap into Your Social Network
Today, every professional who applies for a job has a profile on LinkedIn or other online networks. Allow your company's HR team to delve into the candidate's background and look for any red flags.
While researching, here are a few things you can look for:
- Who is your accountant connected to? Has he worked with reputable people in the past?
- Do they talk about their skills? Does it seem like they are enthusiastic about their work?
- Have any of their past clients endorsed their skills, or posted recommendations?
- What is your prospective accountant's experience?
- How qualified are they?
- What are their interests outside the workplace?
Are you looking for a qualified accountant who will help your business prosper? Look no further! Contact Hilary Wijeratne PTY LTD today to hire an accountant who can offer an array of services!