Marketing an accounting practice is about being seen and building trust. Clients need to know who you are and what you offer. A strong online presence, good networking, and clear communication help your business grow. Simple steps like updating your website, sharing useful tips, and asking for referrals can make a big difference. Consistency is key. Small efforts over time will bring steady results.

KPMG’s bold move to launch an independent law firm in the U.S. signals a shift in how multidisciplinary firms operate. But what does this mean for smaller accounting practices in South Africa? If you’ve ever considered offering legal services—whether in tax law, compliance, or corporate advisory—this article explores how your firm can strategically and legally expand into the legal sector. From regulatory hurdles to business models, we break down what CIBA members need to know, including practical steps to set up a law firm or partner with legal professionals. Plus, don’t miss our free template to help you map out your business plan!

Retirement may seem like a straightforward milestone, but what happens when an employee continues working beyond their agreed retirement age? Can an employer dismiss them at any time, or are there legal limits? A recent Constitutional Court ruling has reshaped the way businesses must handle retirement dismissals, and the implications could be costly for those who get it wrong. Whether you're an employer, HR professional, or accountant advising businesses, understanding these legal shifts is crucial. Read on to uncover the key takeaways and ensure your clients stay compliant with the law!

Before accepting a new client, a structured risk assessment helps identify financial, compliance, and ethical risks. Verifying identity, checking tax compliance, and reviewing financial stability prevent future issues. Clear payment terms and an engagement letter set expectations, while ongoing monitoring ensures a low-risk, professional relationship. Careful client selection protects your practice and supports long-term success.

Managing employee leave is essential for compliance, financial accuracy, and workforce productivity. This article provides business accountants with a clear and practical guide on how to help their clients implement structured leave management systems that align with South African labour laws to ensure compliance while avoiding legal risks. This is a must-read for accountants looking to help businesses stay compliant, manage costs, and enhance productivity.

Remote work presents both opportunities and challenges for businesses, requiring proactive strategies to maintain employee engagement and motivation. Effective communication, recognition, and providing the right tools are essential for fostering a productive work environment. Businesses must also support work-life balance, encourage social interactions, and implement strong management strategies to avoid pitfalls like micromanagement and lack of communication. By prioritising these key areas, companies can create a thriving remote work culture that enhances both employee satisfaction and overall business success.

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Growing an accounting practice doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a solid business plan, a clear understanding of your strengths and challenges, and practical strategies for growth, you can build a sustainable and successful firm. Begin by outlining your firm’s goals, analysing opportunities and threats with a SWOT analysis, and organising your team for maximum efficiency. Focus on sustainable growth by attracting new clients, enhancing services for existing ones, and maintaining strong financial management. By following these steps, you’ll position your practice for long-term success in a competitive market

The accounting world is changing fast with new rules, advancing technology, and growing client expectations. Being flexible and open to change isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s key to staying ahead. This article explores how accountants can build adaptability to handle challenges like regulatory updates, embrace tools like cloud software, and meet client needs with confidence. Discover real-life examples and practical tips to help you grow and succeed.

A business plan is more than a document; it is a guide to help your business grow and succeed. It sets clear goals, outlines strategies, and keeps your team focused. Whether starting out or expanding, a solid plan ensures you make informed decisions and attract the right support. Learn how to create a practical business plan that works.

Transitioning to ISQM 1 doesn’t have to be overwhelming. This new quality management standard focuses on tailoring systems to fit your firm’s needs. By taking small, practical steps, you can build a stronger foundation for better engagements and a more trusted practice. Learn how to make the shift smoother and tackle common challenges with ease.

Monitoring and remediation are vital parts of ISQM 1, ensuring your firm stays on track with consistent quality standards. In this article, we discuss how to effectively monitor key performance indicators, address deficiencies through targeted actions, and foster a proactive culture of continuous improvement to strengthen your practice and deliver reliable results.

Imagine managing a portfolio of clients spread across continents—all from the comfort of your office. Offshore accounting practices are revolutionizing the way Business Accounting Practitioners operate, thanks to cutting-edge technologies like cloud platforms, real-time data analytics, and secure communication tools. In a world without borders, your expertise can reach clients in distant markets, offering tailored solutions and building lasting relationships. This article dives into how you can leverage global connectivity, break cultural and language barriers, and position yourself as a sought-after international accounting expert. Welcome to the future of accounting—limitless and interconnected!

When an accounting practice is registered with the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC), it plays a crucial role in safeguarding the financial system against money laundering, terrorist financing, and other financial crimes. This article explains the responsibilities of implementing a risk based approach with practical guidance on the specific risks accountants may encounter.

Managing quality risks is essential for delivering consistent, reliable results in your practice. ISQM 1 introduces a practical approach to identifying and addressing these risks, tailored to your firm's unique needs. This article explores how you can simplify risk assessment and design effective solutions to strengthen your quality management system.

Discover how ISQM 1 provides a structured approach to managing quality in accounting practices. This article simplifies the framework into actionable steps, focusing on quality objectives, risk management, and tailoring strategies to fit your firm’s needs. Elevate your practice with a system that ensures consistent and professional engagements. Read more to see how it works for you.

Do accountants fall under accountable institutions? There has been much uncertainty regarding when an accounting practice must register with the FIC. At the end, if your business must register you have act now. In this article we explain the FIC’s registration and reporting requirements in a practical way.

Working with clients in the legal sector comes with unique responsibilities and challenges. Legal firms operate under strict rules, especially concerning how they handle client funds in trust accounts. While CIBA members are not permitted to perform audits, they play a crucial role in helping legal clients maintain accurate records, stay compliant, and manage finances effectively. Key support areas include trust account management, ensuring compliance with legal practice rules, providing clear financial reporting, managing data security, and assisting with tax compliance. Additionally, adopting technology can enhance efficiency and compliance, helping legal firms streamline operations.

Quality management is important for today’s accounting practices. ISQM 1 provides a flexible, risk-based framework tailored to each practice's needs. This article explores ISQM 1’s key elements, its major updates from ISQC 1, and its connection to ISQM 2 and ISA 220 (Revised). With practical tips on risk assessment, monitoring, and implementation, this guide helps firms enhance their quality management practices for greater consistency and client trust.

In today's dynamic accounting and tax landscape, client acceptance and retention are crucial for maintaining a successful practice. Accountants must carefully assess each potential and existing client, evaluating business nature, compliance history, and ethical alignment. This process is especially vital across compilation, independent review, and tax engagements, where specialized skills, increased workloads, and technological advancements can challenge a firm's capacity. By establishing clear acceptance criteria and continuously reviewing client relationships, accountants can ensure alignment with professional standards and deliver value-driven services.

In the world of accounting, managing time effectively can feel like a never-ending battle against deadlines and client demands. From SARS and CIPC submissions to tax filings and financial reports, the workload can be overwhelming, especially with hundreds of clients to serve. This article dives into practical, no-nonsense time management strategies tailored specifically for business accountants, offering clear advice on setting priorities, streamlining workflows, and staying organized. With simple tips like automating repetitive tasks, delegating effectively, and learning to set boundaries with clients, accountants can regain control of their schedules, reduce stress, and find a better balance in their busy lives.