Is This Your Situation: Wondering If You Have the Financial Experience to Grow

The number 1 piece of advice people say they've received when they've launched their own small business is "get a good accountant." Without any previous experience owning a small business, it can be challenging to determine which accountant is best for you. Contracting a financial expert is not the same as buying a new car or renting office space. But you have to do your due diligence and find the right accounting partner. Making a bad decision can be worse than avoiding the decision altogether. Consider these issues when making your decision.

• Experience in your industry. Artists have vastly different needs than do small tech startups. Choosing an accounting professional with the right experience is as important as making the decision to hire a financial partner. Do your research, find out who in your area is a good fit for you and call several before you make a choice. 
• Benefits beyond accounting. Your accountant may become more valuable to you than you originally thought. He or she may have business insight that can help you make other, related decisions. Knowing how to tap into your accountant's expertise can benefit you greatly in the long run.
• Added value. Having an accountant on your side when setting up a business entity or going through an audit is critical and worth the person's weight in gold. An accountant may be your best ally when you feel other factors are working against you. The added value can be immeasurable.

From start to finish, your business will have special needs that not everyone is qualified to help you with. Although starting a company can be difficult, transitioning from a sale or closure can be equally stressful. Don't forget all the time in between when having an expert to rely on can help you focus on what you do best.

Your small-business accountant should be your full-service financial partner. It can be challenging, and even daunting, to have to make such a big decision for your business. Finding the right person to fill this role will reduce pressure down the road. If you are ready to choose the right accountant for your small business, call us now.