Most accountants aren’t built for growth – here’s how to find one who is.

If you’re a business owner with big plans for growth, your choice of accountant could be a make-or-break strategic move.

You need to find someone who truly understands your vision, helps you scale sustainably, and gives you back one of the most precious resources: time.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you choose the right accountant for your business—and why the decision is one of the most valuable investments you’ll make.

Acknowledge What’s Not Working

Most business owners don’t start looking for a new accountant when things are going well.

Usually, something’s not sitting right:

You only hear from your accountant once a year.
You’re unsure if you’re paying too much tax.
Your numbers are unclear, even when money is coming in.
You feel like just another client on their spreadsheet.
You’ve grown—but they haven’t grown with you.

Sound familiar?

Start by reflecting on what you’re not getting right now. Is it regular communication? Strategic input? Confidence in your cash flow? Knowing what’s missing is the first step in finding the right fit.

Get Clear on What You Really Need

At your stage of business, you’re not just looking for someone to file your accounts. You need:

Forward-looking advice, not just retrospective reporting.
Tax planning, not just tax filing.
Cash flow clarity, so you can sleep at night.
Help scaling, from someone who’s scaled a business and worked with growing businesses.
A sounding board because you don’t want to make decisions in a vacuum.

Look for a partner who goes beyond the basics. Someone who speaks your language, takes time to understand your goals, and proactively brings ideas to the table.

Do Your Research (Beyond Google)

Yes, you can search online—but that’s just the start. Tap into your network:

Ask fellow business owners who they trust.
Check community groups or LinkedIn threads.
Attend networking events or business hubs where business owners hang out.
Ask to see testimonials, Google reviews and client case studies.

Remember, what works for a micro business might not work for a growing, ambitious one. Choose someone experienced with businesses at your stage and in your industry.

You might also like to read: Why outsourcing your finance department is key to scaling your business.

Check for Alignment – Not Just Qualifications

Most accountants are qualified. That’s not the differentiator anymore.

What you really want to know is:

Do they understand your type of business?
Have they worked with growing, limited companies before?
Can they offer the right level of support now—and as you scale?
Are they aligned with your values?

You might also like to read: What are my duties as company director?

For example, if you value honesty, adaptability, and genuine relationships, don’t settle for a faceless firm. You want someone who’s responsive, approachable, and treats your business like it matters. Because it does.

Ask the Right Questions

Don’t be afraid to ask. Here are some great questions to ask during a discovery call:

How do you help businesses like mine grow?
What kind of financial reporting do you provide during the year?
How often will we speak?
What software and tools do you use, and can they integrate with mine?
How do you help with cash flow planning and tax efficiency?

You’re not being pushy—you’re being practical. And any accountant worth their salt will welcome these questions.

Look Beyond the Fee

It’s tempting to compare quotes and choose the cheapest option. But let’s be honest: you’re not looking for a bargain. You’re looking for a return on investment.

The right accountant will:

Help you avoid nasty tax surprises.
Improve your profitability.
Free up your time to focus on growth.
Give you peace of mind.
Help you plan ahead with confidence.

That’s worth a lot more than saving a few hundred pounds a year.

Trust Your Gut

This is a relationship, not a transaction. You’re inviting someone into your inner circle—so how do they make you feel?

Do they listen?
Are they genuinely interested in your success?
Do they simplify, not complicate?
Are they approachable and responsive?

Trust your instinct. If you don’t feel comfortable now, it’s unlikely to improve later.

Make the Switch Smoothly

Worried about the hassle of switching accountants? Don’t be. A good new accountant will:

Handle all the communication with your old accountant.
Request the necessary paperwork on your behalf.
Get you set up with better systems, better reporting, and better support.

The right partner will make the transition seamless—so you can focus on running your business.

Choosing the right accountant can be the difference between feeling constantly behind and feeling fully in control. At Beansprout, we specialise in supporting ambitious service-based business owners—people just like you. We’re here to simplify the numbers, share the load, and help you turn ambition into action.

Check out our free guide: Choosing the right structure: Limited Company or self-employed?