Having become a common practice globally during the pandemic, remote working looks here to stay. A Forbes Advisor survey released in October 2024 found that 60% of people work at home some or all of the time.
Accountancy is a sector that suits remote work quite straightforwardly. Many everyday tasks no longer require an office setting, as you can usually do them alone and without highly specialised equipment.
If you’re getting started in the world of self-employed accounting and are keen to set up to work remotely, though, there are a few things it’s worth considering to make sure you give yourself the best chance of success.
Start by picking a quiet area that’s away from distractions, then get a comfortable chair and a desk at the correct height to avoid strain during long hours.
It’s also advisable to invest in dual monitors and a good-quality printer to accompany a laptop, as these can enhance efficiency when handling documents and financial reports.
Cloud-based accounting solutions can simplify your processes, especially when you choose one that’s user-friendly and secure.
Popular options such as Xero, QuickBooks and Sage offer a range of features, including automatic bank feeds and invoicing, making it easier to manage multiple clients from a distance.
Some packages also integrate with other tools, such as payroll systems and customer relationship management (CRM) platforms.
There’s a lot to familiarise yourself with from a compliance point of view, especially when you’re going to be the one in charge. You must ensure that you follow regulatory standards set by professional bodies like the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) or the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW).
In addition, you’ll need to be on top of HMRC regulations, including Making Tax Digital (MTD) and anti-money laundering (AML) legislation. Familiarise yourself with these and align your business with them.
Early in your setup process, you may want to make decisions about suitable accountant’s insurance for the work you’ll be doing. If you want to be able to host meetings in person, that might involve looking into public liability insurance. As well as providing you peace of mind about your business’s ability to handle adverse situations, these can also be useful trust signals to clients.
To appeal to customers, focus on creating a strong digital presence. Begin by developing a website that outlines your services, credentials and contact information. When you work successfully with your early clients, consider asking them for testimonials that you can highlight to demonstrate your worth.
You could also use social media platforms like LinkedIn to network with potential clients and industry specialists. Additionally, online marketplaces like Upwork can help you discover people looking for your expertise.
