If you’re running your own business, you are likely wearing numerous hats. Many business owners look to outsource some of the more critical tasks – or those they are not experts in – to professionals. When it comes to finances, unless you are a CPA yourself, it’s probably a good idea to find a good accountant.

Why? Because choosing the right accountant for your small business can mean the difference between success and failure. After all, it’s your financial numbers that make or break your business.

To be sure, today’s small business accountant offers more than crunched numbers. They can be your primary resource for:

• Tax Planning. Beyond simply preparing tax forms, an accountant should be involved in business planning throughout the year. They should be able to regularly advise the business so it functions with peak tax efficiency.
• Business Consulting. A good accountant should be able to help your business grow. Talented small business accountants function as a trusted general business consultant, assessing business problems and offering specific solutions. An accounting professional who really understands your business from the inside out should be a trusted business advisor who is highly motivated to see you succeed.
• Personal Finance Advice. A good small business accountant understands that your personal finances are integrally linked to your business finances. They view the two holistically and offer advice on both fronts.
  Technology Know-How. Computing technology has dramatically improved small business capabilities as powerful business software is no longer only for corporations and the Internet provides a level of access to knowledge, customers and suppliers hardly dreamed of even ten years ago. A good accountant must — be proficient in applying the information technology that turns business data into strategic intelligence.
• Networking. While the strength of an accountant is still what they know, a mark of a successful pro is also who they know. Your accountant should be a good source of referrals as they should know precisely each of their clients’ strengths and needs.

Here are some tips for getting started:

1. Build a referral list (4-6 accountants are a good place to start) by contacting other business owners, your banker, insurance agent, etc.
2. Contact all of them and ask them to discuss their services, experience, educational background, billing policies and fees.
3. Select the best three for a personal meeting. Who was the most prompt? The most thorough? Do they have fees within your budget? Do they have their CPA? Also, will they work directly on your account or will they give it to another employee?
4. Make your final selection based on how well they answered your questions and if they seem like a partner who is looking to grow with you, help steer your business.

As a final question, it’s always good to let the accountant make the case for why you should hire them. It’s your business and it’s an important decision. Take the time to do your homework!