What makes a great accountant

[dotcom12]

I'm going to start looking for a new accountant and the choice seems to be endless. However, I want to approach this appointment in a slightly different manner.

I want to put it out to the form in terms of what are the main features/traits that I should look for in an accountant/accountancy firm.

Also, how important is it to have a dedicated accountant and are there any other points of difference that set a certain accountant apart

[northernladuk]

Why not take recommendations for other experienced contractors? We have a sticky for that.

[BrilloPad]

Being called QDOS?

[SueEllen]

Being called QDOS?

She, he, per, zie, sie or ve may not need all the services QDOS offers.

[WordIsBond]

You may find this thread helpful: http://forums.contractoruk.com/accou...countants.html.

[doconline]

I'm going to start looking for a new accountant and the choice seems to be endless. However, I want to approach this appointment in a slightly different manner.

I want to put it out to the form in terms of what are the main features/traits that I should look for in an accountant/accountancy firm.

Also, how important is it to have a dedicated accountant and are there any other points of difference that set a certain accountant apart

I think the only person who can answer that is you. You need to decide what you want from your accountant. How hands on do you want them to be? Any specific software you want them to use, free agent for example? Do you want to meet them face to face or are you happy with telephone and email? If you post a list of your requirements you might get recommendations from others who wanted the same from their accountant.

[Patrick@Intouch]

I think the only person who can answer that is you. You need to decide what you want from your accountant. How hands on do you want them to be? Any specific software you want them to use, free agent for example? Do you want to meet them face to face or are you happy with telephone and email? If you post a list of your requirements you might get recommendations from others who wanted the same from their accountant.

This is absolutely the right answer. Accountancy services are provided to individuals and every individual is just that.

Something that you may like in a service might not necessarily be suitable (or wanted) by the guy / gal next to you.

A great accountant then, is someone who can provide the service that you are looking for, and make you aware of opportunities that you weren't aware of already.