The year-end audit rush – the time of year that sends most accountants into a very busy, stressful period.
Every business wants their audit finalised before the books close, and if you’re working with larger companies, interim audits add to the chaos.
Often, accountants find themselves juggling a heavy workload, deadlines, and clients who aren’t always ready when you need them to be or don’t have the documents you need.
Here’s our advice to keep things moving efficiently, so you can avoid late nights hunched over spreadsheets.
1. Start preparations early
Starting early can make or break your audit season.
We know, it’s easier said than done, especially when there’s a million other things demanding your attention.
But getting a head start on client data, even by just nudging clients sooner, can make a massive difference.
Make it a habit to send those initial checklists and reminders early on – you and your team will thank you.
2. Allocate staff efficiently
A well-organised audit season is often about smart resource management.
An inefficient allocation of staff can lead to unnecessary bottlenecks so consider your team’s strengths and workload.
Match the complex audits to your top performers and give the routine work to the newer recruits.
Don’t just allocate once and forget – monitor your team’s workflows.
Remember that some jobs will inevitably turn messier than anticipated, and being flexible enough to reallocate people quickly is key to keeping things smooth.
3. Communicate client requirements clearly, early, and simply
Half the audit battle is getting your clients to give you the right information at the right time.
That’s why communicating what you need – early, clearly, and in plain language – is essential.
Let’s face it, no client wants a barrage of emails in mid-December, chasing up misplaced invoices or incomplete records.
Set expectations from the get-go – outline exactly what’s required, by when, and what will happen if it’s delayed.
Sometimes, it’s worth simplifying the process – give your clients easy-to-follow instructions, and even the most chaotic client will be more likely to deliver on time.
4. Automate the process where possible
Automation can be a lifesaver when you’re drowning in year-end demands.
Automate your client requests, automate reminders, automate document collation if you can.
The less time you’re spending manually following up, the more time you’ll have for the stuff that really needs your expertise.
It’s not about replacing your own judgement – it’s about cutting out the repetitive admin that anyone with an inbox knows can eat away at your day.
The year-end rush doesn’t have to be a never-ending headache.
Get ahead, get organised, and lean on the tech – before the work piles up and you’re stuck in that annual grind all over again.
Glasscubes is great for streamlining your audit information gathering. Try our software today!
