As Independence Day approaches, we often think of the founding of our nation, and all those who sacrificed and paved the way for us to live in this great country. The United States had a new beginning and a fresh start, and the rest is, yes, history – the continuing history of the Great American Experiment in Democracy.
This year as you reflect on our nation’s history and celebrate it with family and friends, it might also present an opportunity to seek another type of independence. The chance to find a new accounting firm to meet your audit, accounting and tax needs and partner with you to help you grow.
J – J is for Joint Effort. Your business and an accounting firm should join forces and work together as a team. The discussions go both ways. Your firm should listen to your needs and provide insights, but also offer ideas on what they are seeing in the marketplace.
U – U is for Understanding. Your accounting firm should take the time and effort to understand your business. What is working well? What keeps you up at night? What needs a little tweaking and what calls for a major overhaul?
L – L is for “Like Us.” Many clients like us for our commitment to quality work, customer service and creativity, and you should feel comfortable approaching your firm with questions at any time.
Y – Y is for You and Your Company. You should feel like the firm’s most important client, regardless of your size. Your accounting firm should serve you and exceed your expectations.
4 – Four Keys to a Great Accounting Firm: (1) Knowledge; (2) Experience; (3) Involvement – your accountant should have a hands-on approach to working with you; and (4) Trust – serving as a trusted business advisor is the crucial element that cannot be taken for granted and a hallmark of Sikich.
T – T is for Tax and Technology. Technology is transforming every industry, including accounting. Tax is also a crucial part of your business’s financial vitality, so look for a seamless integration of audit, tax and technology at your next or current firm. Your firm should go to the Cloud and back to help you find ways to operate more efficiently, effectively and profitably.
H – H is for Help. Your accounting firm should want to help, and in more ways than one! Does your current firm offer advisory services geared toward helping your business grow, innovate and thrive? You may not think you need them now, but you just might need them as your business continues to grow.
This Independence Day, take a moment to turn the tables and see if your firm is meeting your standards. Do they tick all the boxes above? Or is it maybe time to consider declaring independence? If you’re still stuck in the 18th century, see if Sikich is the new land of opportunity for your business’s current and future accounting, advisory and technology needs.
This publication contains general information only and Sikich is not, by means of this publication, rendering accounting, business, financial, investment, legal, tax, or any other professional advice or services. This publication is not a substitute for such professional advice or services, nor should you use it as a basis for any decision, action or omission that may affect you or your business. Before making any decision, taking any action or omitting an action that may affect you or your business, you should consult a qualified professional advisor. In addition, this publication may contain certain content generated by an artificial intelligence (AI) language model. You acknowledge that Sikich shall not be responsible for any loss sustained by you or any person who relies on this publication.