Choosing the right CPA for your business should never be taken lightly. After all, you’re partnering with a firm that will have full visibility into your business’ finances and profitability. Therefore, it is important that you work with someone you trust because your business depends on it. It is also important that you work with a CPA that understands you and your business. We’d like to share with you criteria to consider when hiring a CPA for your business.
Experience and Understanding of Your Business
While it is important for your CPA to be experienced in finance, it is important that they understand your business model. There is no one-size-fits-all for businesses. Every business has unique needs based on their structure and industry. When choosing a CPA, it is essential to work with someone who is knowledgeable about your business and the ins and outs of your industry.
Check Credentials and Conduct a Formal Meeting
Your CPA is an integral part of your business; therefore, take your time to make sure you are bringing in someone who is going to meet your needs. Check out their credentials and make sure they are registered with the state. Once you have vetted their credentials, take the next step with an in-person meeting, if possible. Since your CPA will be interfacing with intimate areas of your business and possibly your employees, it is important that you evaluate more than just their expertise. How well do you work together? Is it a good culture fit? Would you feel comfortable exposing them to the vulnerable areas of your business? While part of this process will require you to review background and experience, you will also have to trust your instincts as well.
Check References
Any CPA firm you choose to work with will share the best they have to offer, but what do their customers have to say? Ask for references so that you can evaluate from a customer’s point of view what it’s like to work with this firm. No one is perfect and there will be flaws but it is important to uncover those at the forefront before you begin working with a firm. Taking the time to interview past and current customers can give you the insight you need to understand exactly who you are working with.
Incorporate Your Business Values in the Process
At the outset of recruiting a CPA into your business, it is important you establish what is important to you. While these guidelines will be great when you are going through the interview process, you need to know what your non-negotiables are. For example, you may have determined that you do not want to work with a CPA firm with less than 10 years’ experience. That doesn’t mean that a CPA firm that doesn’t meet this criterion is a bad choice; however, they may not be right for you. Gain a clear understanding of what you need vs. what is important to you and create an outline to follow as you scout for a CPA.
VAAS Professionals is proud to not only offer CPA services to small businesses but to truly work as a consultant with our customers to meet their financial needs. Tenured, we have nearly 20 years of experience working with small businesses in the greater Atlanta area. From managing and filing your business taxes to helping you organize your financial statements - VAAS provides a comprehensive suite of services to arm your business with the financial security you need to build a long, profitable future. Schedule a consultation to learn more about how VAAS can serve your unique business needs.