Small businesses owners tend to take on nearly all of the tasks behind running a successful business, from marketing and customer service, to inventory and accounting. However, as your small business grows, it won’t take long before you start to consider getting some outside help. Accountants can provide critical advice and guidance as you grow your business, as well as taking a large amount of time and worry off of your shoulders.
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Because of the importance of a good accountant, you want to make sure you find the right one for your small business needs. Here are a few things to consider when choosing a Denver accountant.
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Breadth of services. The first thing you need to establish is the type of services you need help with. Are you looking for someone to simply prepare and file your taxes and compile end-of-year financial statements? Or are you looking for someone who can help with more complex business aspects like financial planning, consulting, or budget analysis? Many small businesses benefit from someone who goes beyond basic tax preparation and acts as a financial advisor to the company.
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Area of expertise. In addition to ensuring that the accountant you are considering has the proper certifications, it’s a good idea to make sure they are familiar with the industry you are working in. Ask them about their other clients to get a feel for whether they are comfortable with your industry and to determine how experienced they are with the type of services you are looking for. Also consider how many years of experience the accountant or firm has. A firm that has been in business for many years is more likely to be familiar with an array of unique situations or issues that could potentially impact your business.
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Positive references. As you are searching for firms and accountants to add to your list of potential matches, always be sure to check their references. Take a look at their
testimonials to get a better sense of what it’s like to work with them. Do they have a good number of positive testimonials on their site or is it strangely lacking any outside recognition? If other clients are quick to sing their praise, chances are good that you will have a positive experience with them as well.
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Once you’ve found a potential match, set up an appointment and treat that meeting like an interview. Have your list of services and the level of expertise you feel you need. Be ready to explain where your business is, where you think you need help, and where you’d like to see your business go in the next five to ten years. This is also a great time to ask them how they would represent you in the case of an audit and if they have other references you can contact.
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If you’re ready to get find the right Denver accountant for you, give
Block, Rothman, and Associates a call. We’ll set up an appointment to go over the services we offer and how we can best help your small business succeed.