From One Client to 168: My Journey Starting an Accountancy Practice at 28

10 years in business, plenty of lessons learned, and still just getting started.

Back in 2015, I made a leap that many people thought was a bit mad – I left a stable job at a top 10 accountancy firm after almost 10 years to start my own practice. I was 28, AAT and ACCA qualified, and full of ambition (and let’s be honest, a little bit of fear too).

I started out with just one client – yes, one. And not a big fancy client either – a small local business who took a chance on me. I didn’t know them before I started the practice – just a very nervous and shy 28-year-old accountant trying to find her feet. Fast forward nearly 10 years, and not only are they still a client, but we’ve become friends. I’ve helped them through big business changes, and they’ve supported me through my own ups and downs. We’ve shared life advice, cheered each other on, and built a genuinely valued connection – and that’s exactly the kind of relationship I always hoped to have with my clients.

Fast forward to today, and Derbyshire Accountants is now proud to support 168 incredible clients. We’ve grown steadily, built on trust, word of mouth, and a whole lot of heart – and I wouldn’t change a thing.

A Family Business Background (and an Early Education in Reality)

You could say business is in my blood. My dad ran our family’s building firm – and my grandad before him. It was a proper family trade, passed down from generation to generation. Although my grandad sadly passed away before I was born, I grew up hearing stories about the family business and watching my dad work incredibly hard to keep it going.

I saw the pressures, the long days, the constant juggling act – but also the pride that came with building something from the ground up. I also saw how important it was to have a decent accountant. Someone who wasn’t just about the numbers, but who actually got the business and could offer support, not stress.

That experience stuck with me. When I set up my own practice, I knew I didn’t want to be the “scary” accountant in a grey suit. I wanted to be someone clients felt comfortable calling. Someone who explained things in plain English, who listened, and who helped them sleep better at night.

Changing the Stereotype

Let’s face it – a lot of people are terrified of their accountant. They come to meetings anxious, worried they’ve messed something up, or afraid they’ll be told off like a naughty schoolchild.

Sure, we’ve got to follow the rules – especially with HMRC and anti-money laundering regulations – but that doesn’t mean we can’t be human too.

I wanted to build a practice where clients felt safe. Where they could ask questions without feeling silly. Where there was regular, supportive contact throughout the year – not just a frantic rush at year-end. I wanted to promote honest conversations, long-term relationships, and real connection – because that’s how you build confidence and trust.

The Ever-Changing World of Accountancy

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that accountancy is never still. Over the last decade, we’ve seen constant changes in tax rules, reporting requirements, government schemes, digital systems, and the expectations placed on businesses – and their advisers.

Whether it’s Making Tax Digital, basis period reform, new dividend rules, changes to pension allowances, or HMRC cracking down on undeclared income from side hustles and short-term lets – the landscape is always shifting. It’s kept me on my toes, that’s for sure!

And then there’s the tech side – with software like Xero, Hubdoc, QuickBooks, and AI-powered tools becoming standard. We’ve had to embrace automation, stay ahead of deadlines, and help clients move from spreadsheets to smarter solutions (some kicking and screaming, I’ll admit!).

But for all the change, the one constant is this: businesses still need clear, human support. They still want to pick up the phone and speak to someone who knows them. That’s where we come in – translating the jargon, navigating the chaos, and keeping things calm and on track.

Freedom, Flexibility, and a Ton of Tea

I don’t have kids, but I do have freedom. One of the best parts of running my own business is being able to shape my days in a way that works for me – whether that’s squeezing in a morning walk, blocking out quiet time to focus, or choosing to work with people whose values align with mine.

Don’t get me wrong – I probably work more now than I ever did in employment – but it’s work I care deeply about, and that makes a massive difference.

What I’ve Learned Over the Last 10 Years (The Good, The Bad, and The Brew-Fuelled)

1. People don’t just want an accountant – they want a relationship. Someone who knows them, their goals, their worries… and yes, someone who (ideally!) picks up the phone. I’ll be the first to admit I’m still working on that last bit – but the good news is, when I do answer on the first ring, it’s a minor miracle worth celebrating! Luckily, most of my clients know I’ll always get back to them – even if it’s not instantly.

   
   

2. You can’t be all things to all people. Saying “no” to the wrong clients is just as important as saying “yes” to the right ones.

   
   

3. Technology is brilliant – until it breaks. Invest in good systems, but always have a backup plan (and a calm head when tech inevitably throws a wobbly).

   
   

4. It’s OK to ask for help. Whether it’s hiring, outsourcing, or just having a support network of fellow business owners – you don’t have to do it all alone.

   
   

5. Cash flow really is king. You hear it everywhere – because it’s true. Keep on top of it, plan for tax bills early, and keep your eye on the numbers.

   
   

6. Work-life balance is a constant work in progress. I’m still figuring this one out, to be honest – but I’ve learned that rest is productive too.

   
   

7. Growth comes from consistency. Not flashy launches or fancy ads – just showing up, doing a great job, and building trust.

   
   

8. Being human goes a long way. Clients remember how you made them feel. A reassuring chat, a bit of patience, or a simple “you’re doing great” can mean everything.

   
   

Would I Do It Again?

In a heartbeat.

Starting with one client and a spare room felt daunting – but it’s been the best decision I’ve ever made. I’ve built a business I’m proud of, and I get to help other people build theirs too.

If you’re dreaming of starting something of your own – whether in accountancy or something completely different – my advice is simple: start where you are. You don’t need to have it all figured out. Just take the first step, be yourself, and never underestimate the power of a kind, honest approach.

Thanks for reading, and here’s to many more cups of tea and client success stories!If you’re at the beginning of your journey – keep going. You never know where one brave step might lead.

With best wishes,

Charlotte 😊