Whether you're finally ready to bring in extra help or you're not thrilled with who you're working with, it's clear that it's time for a new accountant for your small business. You know that you need accounting help, but you aren't exactly sure how to go about finding one. 

You could just do a quick search for "accountants in Northampton", but that's no way to ensure that you get the help that you need. Here's what to do if you want to choose the best accountant for your business. 

Consider Expertise 

Would you love to have someone that's an expert in PAYE and payroll? Do you want to finally get into cloud accounting to make access to financial files even easier?

We know that you need someone to help with basic accounting needs, but there's a lot of other financial work that needs to be done. Think about which finance areas you want your new accountant to focus on. 

You may not be able to find someone that can do it all, but you can find an accountant with niche expertise. Before you post your job ad take time to think about what you need the most. 

Find Small Business Experience 

All accountants aren't created equal. There are some things that everyone that calls themselves an accountant should be able to do. However, it's important to try to find someone that has a background that meshes with your business. 

Accountants that have worked at huge enterprise corporations may seem like a great find, but in reality, they likely won't be good for your business. They won't understand all of the nuances that come with having to do financial work for small companies. 

Professionals with small business experience will know the ins and outs of helping out your company. They'll be able to make the right decisions and guide you as you grow. 

Consider Work Style 

Maybe you're the kind of small business owner that loves being in the weeds and want to work side by side with your accountant. Or perhaps you're hoping for the opposite approach and want to be as far away from accounting work as possible.

Regardless of what you think you want or need, make sure you go into the accountant search with a clear idea of how you want to work.

Finding an accountant that already functions within your ideal working style will make collaboration much easier. You'll both know what to expect and that can make work a little easier.

Ask for References 

You think you've found the perfect accountant for your small business. Their resume is great, they're in your budget, and you think they'd get along great with the rest of your staff. 

Before you send out that offer letter, do your due diligence and check in with their references.

References matter when you're hiring new employees. Hearing from old employers can let you know what it's really like to work with your potential new hire, and can help back up some of their claims.

Find Your New Accountant 

The search for a new accountant can seem difficult. However, when you're set up right from the start, finding the help you need gets a lot easier. 

Are you ready to work with an accountant that understands the latest technology? Do you have questions about the accounting services we offer and what we can do for your business? Regardless of what you need, get in touch with us today so you can experience the true power of accounting.