The advent of digital transformation has rendered remote work not only plausible but often preferable in many professions, accounting included. The global pandemic has further accelerated this shift, forcing businesses to adapt and rethink traditional office-centric models.
As an accountant, embracing remote work doesn’t mean distancing oneself from the crucial aspects of the job. Instead, it is a matter of adjusting methods and strategies to continue to deliver high-quality services to clients.
This article aims to equip you with the essentials of how to be successful as a remote accountant.
Staying Organised
Organisation forms the cornerstone of accounting. In a remote setting, this skill needs to be honed even further. Leveraging digital tools can be a game-changer in this regard.
If you’re struggling to remain organised without an office around you, try employing software solutions like QuickBooks or Xero for effective bookkeeping. The cloud-based platforms allow you to access critical financial data from anywhere, ensuring you can serve your clients irrespective of location.
However, being organised is more than just having the right tools; it’s about using them efficiently. Develop a daily routine, set specific working hours, and stick to a task list. This boosts your productivity and makes you more accountable to yourself and your clients.
Effective Communication
Communication often becomes the first casualty in a remote work environment, leading to misunderstandings and delays. Therefore, it is pivotal to maintain regular contact with your team members and clients.
Video conferencing tools like Zoom or Microsoft Teams can help facilitate remote communication. Still, it’s also crucial to follow up conversations with written records, whether that’s through email or a project management system like Asana. This approach ensures everyone is on the same page and can refer back to discussed points when necessary.
Building Relationships
Working as a remote accountant should not come at the cost of losing personal touchpoints with your clients. Building relationships as an accountant is as critical as ever, especially in a profession where trust plays a pivotal role.
Take time to schedule regular check-ins with clients and consider arranging face-to-face meetings when possible. Remember, platforms like LinkedIn can also be instrumental in maintaining professional relationships. Your online presence serves as an extension of your professional persona, so keep it updated and engage with industry-relevant topics.
INAA: Your Partner in Remote Accounting
Becoming a remote accountant does not mean you have to traverse this new landscape alone. Organisations like INAA offer a vast network of accounting professionals across the globe.
An INAA membership provides a collective knowledge base, ranging from local tax regulations to global accounting standards, enriching your remote working experience. Being a part of such a global network also opens up opportunities for client referrals, making it easier for you to expand your practice while working remotely.
Ultimately, remote work is no longer the future of accounting; it is the present. By mastering the art of staying organised, communicating effectively, and building relationships, you succeed as a remote accountant and add value to your clients.
Partnering with organisations like INAA can further smoothen this transition, offering a collaborative platform to stay updated and connected in the ever-changing world of accounting.
So what are you waiting for? Jump into our world and apply for your membership today!