A first consultation is a conversation, not an exam. You do not need perfect records or a prepared speech. A little thought beforehand simply helps the time go further.
What a first consultation is for
It is a chance to explain what you need, understand how a practice works, and decide whether to go further. Neither side is committing to anything.
For many owners the most useful outcome is simply clarity: what the real issue is, what the options are, and what a sensible first step might be. If the conversation leaves you with that, it has done its job, whether or not you go on to work together.
Think about what prompted it
Knowing why you are asking helps focus the conversation. Common reasons include:
- Something feels out of control
- The business is changing or growing
- A decision is coming up
- You would like a second opinion
Gather a few basics
You will not need to bring everything, but a rough picture of the following helps:
- The kind of business structure you have, if you know
- Roughly how you keep records today
- Whether you have staff, and how they are paid
- Which software you use, if any
- Any recent letters or notices you are unsure about
Questions you might be asked
A practice will usually want to understand the business before suggesting anything. Expect questions such as:
- What does the business do, and how long has it operated this way?
- How are records kept today, and who looks after them?
- What is the biggest frustration at the moment?
- What would a good result look like in a year?
How to make the time count
A few habits make a first conversation more useful. Lead with what is on your mind rather than trying to cover everything. Ask for plain explanations whenever something is unclear. Write down what you agree on, and what you would like to think about before the next step.
Practical details to sort out
A few simple choices make the conversation smoother. Decide whether it suits you better to talk in person, by phone or by video, and ask who from the practice you would be speaking to. If the business has a partner or a person who looks after the records, consider whether they should join, so that questions can be answered on the spot.
Be candid about the state of things
If records are behind, or you have avoided looking at something, say so. Practices hear this often, and knowing the real position lets them suggest a realistic first step. Hiding problems only makes a first conversation less useful.
Write down your questions
Questions about scope, communication and how fees are explained are all reasonable. The article on questions to ask before engaging an accountant has a starting list.
What you do not need to bring
You do not need to have everything organised, and you do not need to send sensitive documents in advance. A real practice would explain what it needs, and when.
After the conversation
Take time to think. A good first conversation leaves you with a clearer picture of the options, not pressure to decide on the spot.
General information only. This conceptual educational material is not tax, accounting or financial advice, does not consider your circumstances, and is not a substitute for advice from a registered professional. For current rules, check ato.gov.au.