| • | Is the accountant qualified? Look for the words �chartered� or �certified�. |
| • | How many partners are there? As a rule, choose a practice comparable in size to your business. �If you�re a small business, choose a small practice. They�ll be more empathetic, cheaper and be familiar with your problems,� says Clive Lewis, head of SME issues at the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales. But think ahead: if you plan rapid growth a bigger practice might be better. |
| • | Who are the practice�s other clients? It can be helpful if your accountant has experience of businesses of your size, in your sector or operating in your market. |
| • | Who will look after your business on an everyday basis? A good rapport with your accountant is vital. �You might only meet a partner once a year � so you need to find out who you will deal with most of the time and see how you get on with them,� says Nick Winters, partner responsible for growing businesses at accountants and business advisers PKF. |
| • | Does the accountant understand you? Your accountant is likely to become a long-term business associate. For the relationship to work, they need to show an interest in where your business is now and where it is heading. |
| • | How effectively does the practice work? Ask for estimated response times. How long does it take to speak with a partner? Will the practice contact you with, for example, news about tax changes? |
| • | What additional services does the practice offer? You might be able to take advantage of services such as information-systems advice or personal-finance guidance. |
| • | Does it have any specialisms? If your business is a start-up, deals internationally, is planning a stock-market listing or has other special needs, ensure the practice has the necessary expertise. |
| • | How does the accountant charge? Hourly fees are most common but a fixed fee for the first 12 months can often be arranged. |
| • | Can you speak to other clients? An accountant should be happy to put you in touch with other customers. |
