We know that accountants can specialise in a variety of areas. Where do you see your agency sitting in this ecosystem, and how do you see your areas of specialty?

I believe that every successful business owner needs a mentor, and this is something we like to offer in  the financial arena to our business clients.

This is something I have seen first hand, because many business owners often don't have the support and guidance behind them.

Aspirational business owners need someone who will be proactive and willing to point out things that wouldn't normally be discussed. I think it's important to always look at new and better ways to do things - going beyond just the normal tax and compliance work accountants are known for and helping business owners to grow their revenue, increase their profits and manage their cashflow better.

What are the main issues you see coming up time and time again for your business clients?

There are two main issues I see. Cashflow and proper business planning.

Managing cash flow is a vital part of running a successful business. Some business owners think managing cash flow simply means keeping track of how much money enters and leaves their business, but there is actually more that goes into it. Cash flow forecasting for example, is an incredibly valuable tool that helps you anticipate cash flow issues, plan for days when your cash flow is limited and show the bank that you are prepared.

The turn of the year usually prompts people to think about some business planning for the year ahead. Business planning works best when it's a team effort. Involve your key staff and your advisors, such as your accountant, your mentor and others who can contribute meaningfully to help you plan for the year ahead.

It is important to know who is a good fit for your business, and those people who you work best with, and can help the most. Who do you feel your agency is able to work best with and to help the most?

At Westwoods BGA we offer integrated accounting and financial solutions for business owners we think of as Freedom Seekers, Nesters and Multi-generational family businesses. These business owners have common traits. They are prepared to do the work required to be successful which separates them from others in business who are just going through the motions. Being a business owner is part of who they are, and they want to work with a like-minded advisor who will help them achieve their goals.

What do you see as the biggest upcoming opportunities for businesses?

I believe the biggest upcoming opportunities are for those businesses who do things differently and in a better way than their competitors. Some of the most successful businesses I see are those that find a niche solving problems no one else can, which gives them a significant advantage in the market place.

If there was one key message you wanted to give to business owners, what would it be?

If you are passionate about what you do, and are prepared to do the work, you can achieve anything!

Bruno and the team at Westwoods BGA have provided advice to business owners as part of the business support provided by Council's Economic Stimulus Package.