Frustrated by a one-size-fits-all approach to small business accountancy, Bradley Stoke accountant James Comer has started a practice dedicated to SMEs.
James Comer Accounting uses both traditional and online methods to suit his clients, including cloud accounting, apps and expenses management solutions.
“At present, I find that most accountants are in two separate camps – the traditional (were online software is not offered) or online (where everything is provided electronically),” says James. “My proposal is to offer not only traditional and online solution but also a hybrid approach.
“The objective is to offer a bespoke working method that is right for each individual. I have always heard the familiar client frustrations about a lack of communication and real time advice. From my experience, the bigger players are more geared up for dealing with larger clients and rightly so. However, there is a disconnect between the smaller clients and their accountant. This is mainly due to having multiple points of contact (such as one person who does your payroll, one who does your VAT, another who does your accounts etc.) In this digital age with e-mail and the like, the personal touch has gone out of our business and I would like to bring that back.
“The role of an accountant is rapidly changing with the introduction of more and more online processes,” he says, adding that more and more clients expect business advice as well as financial services.
“My approach is more about providing a service to the client that they understand and can grow with. One where they can see the benefit and understand the end product.”
He emphasises the importance of technology in modern business practice and warns that many small businesses are getting left behind by not embracing it.
“With the expansion of online accounting services, a lot of clients are getting left behind. Through not embracing the new technology or simply not understanding it, lots of small businesses are missing out on the benefit of real time financial control. My aim is to bridge the gap from traditional face-to-face services and online accounting software. Helping small businesses who are daunted by technology onto the ladder. I would like to assist all clients in getting from paper records to a more manageable online system.”
Image – James Comer with his dog Tag
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