If you’re considering switching accountants, here’s what you need to know. Business bookkeeping isn’t just about keeping the numbers tidy, it’s about building a relationship with someone who understands your business and actually picks up the phone when you call.
If you’re tired of chasing up replies, fixing errors, getting unclear answers, or feeling like just another client on a list, it could be a sign that it’s time for a change. It’s completely reasonable to expect a professional service from your accountant.
The Problem – You’re Just One Of Many
It’s not uncommon for people to shift accountants because they are tired of being just another number. The problem with larger firms, is they often have a higher volume of clients. So, that can mean you’re passed around junior staff and never speak to the same person. Feedback often consists of:
“I never deal with the same person.”
“They don’t understand my business.”
“I am constantly having to re-explain things.”
“It often takes them days to respond to my request.”
If you’re one of their smaller clients, your business can be treated like a template: same reports, same advice, same checkboxes, which can leave you feeling like just a number in their system. And, because you’re not one of their bigger clients, you’ll likely wait longer for answers to your questions.
I had a meeting recently with a new client. He wanted to swap from a big accounting firm to a smaller more personal service. His mother had owned a farm, and needed a larger accounting firm for her accounts. But when she passed away she had transferred everything into investments. This gentleman didn’t need all the bells and whistles anymore, and I was shocked to see what they were charging him.
I used to work in a big accounting firm. I launched my small bookkeeping business because I noticed small and medium-sized business’s were paying huge fees for the same services. I figured I could offer it for a lot less, by keeping my overheads low.
A Business Relationship
In my opinion, personal service really does matter. I am a small bookkeeping business and work remotely from home, but I service clients throughout New Zealand.
Just recently, I travelled to Auckland to catch up with some of my clients who have been with me since the beginning. They stuck with me when I moved to the Tauranga region, and many are happy to communicate remotely. However, I still like to catch up face-to-face.
If you’re in business in New Zealand, you understand that people like to do business with people. People buy from people they trust. Working with someone you trust has several benefits:
They actually take the time to understand your business.
They don’t just keep your books in order, they can explain what they mean.
You always deal with the same person.
You don’t wait days for a response to your request. In fact, when you call it’s me who answers the phone.
We get to know each other, so when you call, I won’t just ask how things are going in terms of your finances, but I’ll be asking about your business as a whole.
What’s Best for Your Business?
The Role of Bookkeeping
Typically, bookkeepers focus on recording transactions and maintaining an organisation's finances. This includes services like:
Recording payments and transactions;
Processing staff payroll;
Customer invoicing and recording payments;
Conducting monthly bank reconciliations,
Preparing books and providing year-end financials,
And tax documents for the accountant.
Bookkeepers are responsible for maintaining your day-to-day business transactions and your records, income, and expenses accurate and up-to-date. Accurate bookkeeping is essential for a business because it ensures compliance with local tax regulations and provides valuable insight into a business’s financial health.
If you’re spending a lot of time managing your financial records, are having trouble keeping up with GST and tax regulations, your end-of-year financials are a mess, or your staff payroll has become complex—a bookkeeper might be right for your business.
If you’re a larger business that gets audited regularly, is experiencing rapid growth, or requires a more advanced financial analysis, then you’re likely a good fit for an accounting firm.
However, it’s important to note that accountants and bookkeepers often work closely together.
Making the Switch
An effective accountant or bookkeeper will understand that your time is valuable. If you feel it’s time to make the switch, here are my top tips for a smooth transition.
Read my blog… What to Expect From Your Bookkeeper.
What’s your current situation? Identify whether you think you're looking for more day-to-day or end-of-year tax management of your business books. Do you require a more advanced financial analysis?
Ask for recommendations and look for an accountant or bookkeeper who resonates with your business. Prioritise those who take the time to understand your industry and your specific pain points.
Set up a meeting, and discuss what you and your business need. For New Zealand businesses, ensure you’re accountant has a specific understanding of the NZ tax system.You can book a meeting with me here.
Beyond fees, consider the overall value of swapping to a new bookkeeper or accountant. Ask questions about how they communicate deadlines and provide updates. What’s their background? What industries have they worked with? Are they transparent with their fees? Are they proactive when it comes to spotting issues? You can read more about what to expect from your bookkeeper here.
If you decide to switch, it is common courtesy to inform your current bookkeeper or accountant that you’re doing so. Provide adequate notice to allow for a smooth transition. Request copies of your income tax, financial records and other relevant documents. I can also help you handle this process.
Grant your new bookkeeper access to your Xero or other essential documents, and give permission to your old accountant to pass on relevant information, to securely handle sensitive information.
Establish expectations with you new bookkeeper or accountant, whether that be regular chats or updates.
Feeling like just another client? Let’s change that. I offer tailored bookkeeping support for small and medium businesses owners who want to feel confident and in control of their finances.
