New client request

New client request

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I recently set up my own practice and have just had a call from a potential new client. They asked me as well as helping set up their new business could I provide advice, help with their own personal finances. I have not met them yet but as I understood it they wanted a spreadsheet to record incoming/outgoing movements. I thought this was a a little odd since this is something we all do and do not need an accountant for. Is there any reason why I should not do this? Never have I been asked before to do this and aalthough a simple task I just wanted to know if anyone else has ever done this or should I steer well clear?

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By AndersonAccountancy
30th Sep 2011 13:30

Hi. I don't think there is any reason why you cannot do this for them, obviously make a charge. Perhaps they are just completely "backward" when it comes to finances and just need the extra help. My brother/sister in law are exactly the same - sometimes you need the put down income and expenses in an Excel sheet just to make them see where their money is going.

Hope this helps.

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By Steve Holloway
30th Sep 2011 13:53

I do all sorts of things!

I write letters for a client for whom English is not a first language, I have done household finances, a variety of non-financial government type forms, interviews, sales presentations, CV's, staff disciplinary meetings, employment tribunals, debt collection (in person and by post), stock delivery and God knows what else. If you can do something with competence and they are willing to pay for it then why not?

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By Jason Dormer
02nd Oct 2011 20:45

Clients

If you have recently set up then you need to understand that this is not 'something we all do' as far as clients are concerned.  Clients do not think and act as the same way as accountants - if the spreadsheet is something that they want and something that you could give them then give it to them.  It will not only be appreciated by them but will make the year end accounts prep so much easier for you because you can bespoke it and train them how to use it properly.

You should change your mindset and put yourself in clients shoes to see how you can help them.  This way you will have increased cross selling opportunites, happier clients, and increased referrals.

 

Jason Dormer

Seahorse (UK) Ltd - Supporting Accountants & Bookkeepers

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By zarathustra
03rd Oct 2011 09:52

Wrong end of stick I think

I would interpret their rquest as "I'm in hock up to my eyebrows, please can you help negotiate me out of it"

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By Settingupalone
03rd Oct 2011 09:56

Thanks to all

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