Reasons Your Current Accounting Team Sucks
Do you ever dread talking with your accounting team?
Do you finish conversations with your accountant feeling more confused than confident?
Do your finances feel more like a mystery than a roadmap?
I hate to break it to you…but your accounting team might suck.
We get it—“sucks” might sound harsh.
We’re accountants too, and we’ve met some amazing accountants along the way (many who we hired for our team!)
But too often we’ve found many CPAs who are doing a massive disservice to businesses, and it doesn’t have to be that way.
Sometimes it’s a lack of training, communication skills, or resources. But whatever the reason for this predicament, it’s better to figure it out sooner rather than later.
Let’s break down the top reasons why your current accounting team might not be cutting it—and, more importantly, what you can do about it.
1. They’re Stuck in the Stone Age
Still Using Spreadsheets for Everything?
If your accounting team is still relying on endless spreadsheets, manual entries, and outdated software, you’re dealing with a serious case of inefficiency.
Spreadsheets have their place, but they’re not meant to be the backbone of your financial operations. Outdated tools mean higher chances of errors, slower processes, and more time spent on tasks that could be automated.
The Math on Why it Sucks:
- Manual data entry = more errors
- Outdated software = missed opportunities for efficiency
- Time wasted on repetitive tasks = less time for strategy
What You Deserve: A modern accounting team should be using up-to-date software and automation tools to streamline processes, reduce errors, and save time.
2. Communication is Like Pulling Teeth
Does Your Team Only Speak Numbers?
Financial reports filled with jargon, explanations that leave you more confused, and updates that are as clear as mud—these are all signs of poor communication.
If you can’t understand what your numbers are telling you, how are you supposed to make informed decisions?
The Math on Why it Sucks:
- Miscommunication = misunderstandings + mistakes
- Fatigue from constantly asking baseline questions = less energy for more strategic conversations
- Lack of clarity = lack of confidence in your financials
What You Deserve: Your accounting team should be able to break down complex financial concepts into simple understandable language. You shouldn’t need a degree in finance to know where your money is going. Clear, jargon-free communication helps you stay informed and confident in your decisions.
3. They’re Reactive, Not Proactive
Always Playing Catch-Up?
Is your accounting team constantly putting out fires instead of preventing them? A reactive approach means they’re only dealing with problems as they arise—missing out on opportunities to optimize and plan for the future.
It’s like driving while only looking in the rearview mirror. Sure, you’ll see what’s behind you, but you’re likely to miss what’s up ahead.
The Math on Why it Sucks:
- Constantly scrambling to fix issues = Missed opportunities for growth + savings
- No proactive planning = more stress for you, and everyone else on the team
- An ounce of prevention > a pound of cure
What You Deserve: A proactive accounting team doesn’t wait for problems to arise—they anticipate them and take action to prevent them. Regular financial reviews, strategic planning, and forward-thinking advice keep your business ahead of the curve. Your team will ideally always be one step ahead, so you can focus on running and growing your business.
4. They Make You Second-Guess Everything
Confidence in the Red?
If your accounting team isn’t providing you with clear, accurate information, it’s easy to start second-guessing every decision you make. Maybe you’re not sure if your financials are accurate, or you’re uncertain about the reports you’re getting.
When you don’t trust the numbers, it’s hard to move forward with confidence.
The Math on Why it Sucks:
- Doubt in your financials = indecision
- Second-guessing your strategy = missed opportunities
- Constant worry about mistakes = more stress
What You Deserve: A solid accounting team provides you with clarity and assurance, turning uncertainty into confidence. With accurate reports and expert advice, you can make informed decisions without the constant fear of making a mistake. It’s about transforming your financials from a source of stress into a powerful tool for growth.
5. They’re Costing You Money
Financial Errors and Missed Opportunities
Errors in accounting aren’t just annoying—they can be downright expensive. Whether it’s overpaying on taxes, missing out on deductions, or dealing with mistakes that lead to penalties, a subpar accounting team can take a serious toll on your bottom line.
The Math on Why it Sucks:
- Overpaid taxes = money out the window
- Missed deductions and credits = lost opportunities
- Penalties and fees due to errors = unnecessary costs
What You Deserve: An accounting team that’s meticulous and knowledgeable, ensuring that your finances are optimized. They should be spotting every deduction, maximizing your tax benefits, and catching errors before they become costly problems.
You Deserve an Accounting and Finance Team that Rocks
The right accounting team doesn’t just help you avoid pain, they create a solid foundation for growth. They can turn your financial operations into a source of strength, not stress.
If your current team is stuck in the past, poor at communication, reactive instead of proactive, making you second-guess everything, and costing you money, it’s time to reconsider your options.
So, take a step back, evaluate your current team, and don’t be afraid to make a change if it’s needed. Your business—and your peace of mind—are worth it.
3 Key Takeaways:
At New Economy, we take pride in helping our clients find accounting solutions that don’t suck. In fact, we might even find solutions that are downright awesome!
Here are 3 key takeaways:
- Upgrade Your Tools: If your accounting team is still relying on outdated methods and tools, it’s time to move on. A modern approach minimizes errors, saves time, and enhances efficiency.
- Demand Clarity: You deserve clear, jargon-free communication from your accounting team. Understanding your financials is key to making informed decisions with confidence.
- Be Proactive: A great accounting team should anticipate challenges and opportunities, not just react to them. Proactive planning and strategic advice will keep your business ahead of the curve.
New Economy Team Members are Experts in Accounting for Entrepreneurs
If you’re dealing with an accounting team that sucks, we’ve got a rockstar team at New Economy ready to make things better.
We’ll help you get your accounting and taxes done, and done right.
Schedule a time to meet with our Founder, Jeff, and discuss how we can help your business survive and thrive each year!