See full profile: Waterkloof Ridge Accountant - Phossina Kaserera
Were you always planning to be an accountant and why?
Not really. A friend advised me to do accounting at "A" Level as I was good in mathematics and did not qualify to pursue any other career that would ensure that I utilize mathematics.
When meeting with clients do they mostly come to your own premises or do you mostly go their theirs?
First meetings usually occur at the client's offices so we establish the working relationship.
What is your preferred mode of communication with your clients?
Email.
Have you ever done an online video call with a client?
No.
What do you love most about accounting?
It is hands on, gives exposure to almost all the industries. Accounting consulting keeps me on my toes.
Would you recommend accounting as a career for school-leavers, and why?
Definitely as one can be self employed and make a decent living.
What qualities should South African business people be looking for in their accountant?
What is the biggest challenge facing accountants today?
Assisting clients who are not committed to their own work and do not provide all the required information. Only assisting with historical accounting and tax, where the clients would have used all the money and do not have money to pay their taxes (no systems in place and lack of understanding of the various taxes the business is registered for). Being made accountable for clients' mistakes.
What aspects of accounting do you focus on most?
All aspects from bookkeeping, preparation of financial statements, various tax computations, submissions and payments.
Describe your average client:
Small to medium entities, owner managed.
How far away from your premises is your furthest client?
I am in Pretoria and I have clients in as far as East London, Rustenburg, Polokwane, Durban.
From your accounting experience, if you could cite one of the biggest reasons SME's in SA fail, what would it be?
Poor financial management and failure to provide for tax payments.
What accounting software do you like best?
Sage One Accounting.
What other software, online services or apps do you use?
Pastel express; Caseware; Excel.
Do you think the coming wave of automation in the next few years will steal some accounting jobs and why/why not?
Yes, in terms of capturing from source documents (data capturing) as clients can have systems to do that for them and they send processed information.
What is your opinion on Bitcoin?
Can work well for huge businesses with online presence if it is to be used a transaction currency. Otherwise it can be an investment tool for business and individuals. Also can lead to tax evasion.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
Watching Tv, mainly on documentaries.
What is the most interesting thing on your bucket list?
Globe trotting!
What has your experience been on FindanAccountant?
A very good website to market services as I often get calls with reference to Find an Accountant,
See how our other local South African accountants have answered the above questions.
