By the Book Bookkeeping, LLC

Every business, big or small, needs to hire an accountant to protect the financial integrity of the organization. Many business owners think that with the assistance of handy software such as QuickBooks, they can personally handle the accounting, and truth be told, that is the biggest mistake a business owner can make.
When business owners decide not to hire an accountant they are usually motivated by the savings they think they will achieve, but fact of the matter is a good accountant can be one of the most worthwhile investments made in the business, and in the end can actually end up saving the company money.
Hiring the right accountant can be a valuable asset to your business, no matter how small, and can provide many benefits at various stages of growth, such as described below.
During the start-up phase
During the all important start-up phase of a company a great accountant can be beneficial in providing advice as to what type of company is best suited for the business model, as well as assist in making decisions in regards to maximising profit. The right accountant will also be able to advise and guide you through the financial section of a business plan, allowing you a more professional outlook on what’s to come.
Day-to-day operations
When it comes to the daily operations of a business there are many services an accountant can provide. These services include managing the recording of financial transactions and ensuring compliance with the law, overseeing payroll and helping to find cost savings from various vendors, and from within operating costs. In addition, an accountant will handle all aspects of tax preparation, such as payroll deductions, financial reports and necessary deductions. Choosing the right accountant will ensure that a business is able to properly plan for changes in expenses and growth, creating a financial safety net so the business never faces hardship.
During periods of growth
A good accountant is critical to a company during periods of growth, and businesses are able to benefit from their expertise in several ways. An account will provide valuable advice, in addition to financial reports to indicate how growth should be handled, as well as provide insight as to opportunity. They will also help with every aspect of business including planning for expansion, opening a new location or even selling if need be. Using an accredited accountant safeguards a business from having to experience an audit, or can help work through the process of an audit with you should one occur.
During financial hardship
If a company is experiencing times of financial difficulty an accountant can help to manage the situation by helping to identify problems within the business, and developing new plans to bring the finances under control. They can also be useful in working with creditors to organise payment arrangements, handle any liens and negotiate interest rates, directly affecting the financial situation of the company.
A great accountant will offer the flexibility needed to meet the needs of individual owners, whether it is on a full or part time basis, steering the business towards success and financial stability.

One of the most rewarding objections in my line of work is when I have been able to truly help a business with their financial objections and guided them to achieve new goals and dreams. In addition, it is the close professional relationships I develop with my clients, I love seeing them realize their potential and succeed. Some of the best moments come from the results of helping my clients with my knowledge and expertise, it's the "thank you's" I truly appreciate.

I started my business for the “freedom” part of it. I keep going because of the rewards I get from the freedom to act on my own ideas, the relationships I build with my clients, and seeing my dream of running a small bookkeeping business be my reality. I am free to decide how to handle my clients, in which I take a very direct, personable approach with. I get to know them, their successes become my successes. I love the flexibility I have to work my own schedule which allows me to coordinate with my clients on their schedules. I also have more time to spend with friends and family, and to do the things I love. But at the end of the day, most of all I would say the biggest reward and inspiration comes from when I truly help a client fulfill their goals and expectations of what a good bookkeeper is and does.

It’s not just my background, my education or working with successful businesses — or my people skills, which have helped me develop great relationships with my clients, vendors, and colleagues alike. I am also passionate about the industry I work for and driven to deliver high-quality work. I always think out side of the box for new and innovative ways to deliver high quality results while staying compliant with GAAP and other accounting principles. I pride myself in honesty, integrity, diligence, organization, attention to detail, and timely results. With me you can rest easily knowing you placed one of the most important parts of your business with someone who will work hard to help you achieve your goals and visions.