0816_TOEFL-Test-and-Score-Manual-1997

Money Matters ● 51
accountant or tax professional. A good accountant does much more than
help you file your taxes. They should lead your financial advisory team.
A good small business accountant keeps up to date on all state and
federal tax laws. He or she should understand your business and serve as
your confidant. You should consult them before you buy any equipment,
sign a major deal, or sell or relocate your business.
John D’Aquila, founder of D’Aquila & Co. LLP, with offices in
Jacksonville, Florida, provides a range of services to his entrepreneurial
clients. He not only prepares our tax returns, but helps me manage all my
finances. Best of all, he steers me away from making financial mistakes. I
appreciate his expertise, candor, and integrity. He brilliantly orchestrated the
sale of SBTV.com by setting it up as an installment sale that benefited both
us and the buyer. He also helps many of his clients attract outside investors
to fuel growth.
So how do you find the right accountant for your particular business? If
possible, hire someone with experience in your specific industry. So, if you
are in the apparel business, you want someone who knows fashion. If you are
in the construction industry, you want someone who knows the ins and outs
of leasing heavy equipment and dealing with subcontractors.
Word of mouth is the best way to find a good accountant; so
start by asking your friends, neighbors, and business associates for
recommendations.
Remember, in order to do a good job, your accountant has to know
nearly everything about you, your family, and your business. You need to
work with someone you feel comfortable confiding in.
Once you assemble a list of potential candidates, check out their web
sites and profiles on LinkedIn.
If you like what you see, schedule a meeting. Many entrepreneurs
prefer to work with small accounting firms because they are more apt to
work directly with a partner. But if your business requires a big company
with international offices, don’t rule out a big firm. A reputable accountant
should not charge you for the initial meeting.
Make a list of questions you want to ask during your interview. Do
you feel comfortable with the person? You’ll be sharing very personal and
financial information.
If you like what you see, ask for a short list of other clients to call for
references. If the accountant is reluctant to give references, move on. Ask if
they are up to date on the professional courses they are required to take by