What are you looking for in a business relationship?

Scanning the phone book or searching the Web for a CPA firm in your area will give you dozens of names. How do you choose? Here are four important questions to consider, based on our 60 plus years of experience working with clients:

1. Industry experience.While basic accounting principles apply to all industries, there are nuances in many that some firms might not know. Such as the requirements for government entities, unique tax deductions available to privately held companies and funding issues for nonprofit organizations. Look for someone who knows your industry.
   
   
2. Do they understand your challenges? There are many good technical accountants who can whip up a profit & loss statement into shape or recite the tax laws if you want to hear them, but it takes someone special to become your advisor. When it comes to running a business, things aren’t usually so black and white. You need someone who not only understands the many issues you face, but can help you work through them. For our perspective on key accounting issues, click on any of our services on the left.
   
   
3. Do they understand your business goals? The right partner is one who takes the time to understand your goals for the future and is able to help you every step of the way. An advantage with working with the same firm over several years is that when they know where you have been and can help you get to where you want to go. So consider not only your immediate needs, but your future business needs as well.
   
   
4. How large is the firm? Make sure that no matter which firm you choose for your needs that they are similar in size or slightly larger than your company. If you choose a firm that is too large, you may not get the type or kind of attention you need. If you choose a firm that is too small, they may not have the expertise that you need. You need a firm you can grow with.