Hiring an accountant can be a daunting task, especially if you're not familiar with the industry. However, with a little preparation and research, you can find the perfect accountant for your business. Here are some things to consider when hiring an accountant:

1. Qualifications and experience: Make sure the accountant you hire has the necessary qualifications and experience to handle your business's financial needs. Look for an accountant who is a certified public accountant (CPA) or a certified management accountant (CMA). Also, check their experience in working with businesses similar to yours, in this case, independent workers, entrepreneurs, gig workers and small business owners.
2. Services offered: Accountants can do a lot more than your taxes. Consider the services you need based on what the firm offers. Typical services include tax preparation, bookkeeping, and financial planning, so you'll want to consider which to do on your own versus paying your accountant for.
3. Fees and payment structure: You need to know that you're getting the best value for your money. Look for an accountant who offers flexible pricing options, such as hourly rates or package deals, and be wary of anyone who is pushing you to commit to a long-term contract.
4. Communication: Good communication is key to a successful working relationship with your accountant. Ensure that the accountant you hire is someone who can explain financial concepts in a way that makes sense to you. They should be able to answer your questions and address your concerns in a timely and professional manner.
5. Fees and Billing: Be upfront about their fees and billing practices. Ask about their hourly rate, flat fee, or contingency fee. Also, inquire about additional costs such as expenses, software fees, or any other charges.
6. Technology: Consider the tools they use to interact with you. Do they use cloud-based accounting software that allows for real-time collaboration and remote access? Come tax season, you're going to want as smooth of a process as possible to deliver documents and get filing done.
7. Reputation: Research the accountant's reputation online by checking their website, social media, and review sites. Look for testimonials, reviews, and ratings from past clients to get an idea of their work quality and customer service.
8. Insurance and Liability: Ensure that the accountant has professional liability insurance to protect yourself against potential errors or negligence.

Now that you know what to consider when hiring an accountant, here are some common questions to ask the firm when you're interviewing them:

1. What experience do you have working with people in my industry?
2. What services do you offer?
3. What is your pricing structure and are there any additional fees I should know about?
4. How do you communicate with clients, and how often can I expect to hear from you?
5. What documents do you typically need from me to file taxes?
6. Can you walk me through your process for preparing tax returns and financial statements?
7. How do you ensure accuracy and attention to detail in your work?
8. Can you provide any examples of how you've helped clients save money or improve their financial situation?
9. What sets you apart from other accounting firms, and why should I choose you over others?

By considering these factors and asking the right questions, you can find an accountant who fits your business needs and helps you achieve your financial goals. Remember, it's essential to take your time and research thoroughly to make an informed decision.