Hi

Most of us are used to accounting being a nine-to-five service. If you email on Friday night, you expect to hear back sometime on Monday. If you have a question on Sunday, you make a note and hope you remember.

That rhythm is going to change.

As agent-style AI is embedded into firms, you can expect near-continuous access to help:

• A chat interface where you can ask questions at any time
• Quick answers on simple queries
• Automated nudges when something needs attention
• Alerts if there’s a looming cash issue or deadline

Human accountants will still be there. But a lot of the first-line interaction will be handled by trained assistants in the background. Imagine you ask, “What did we spend on marketing last month?” An assistant replies instantly with the figure, a short breakdown, and a chart. Your accountant reviews that conversation later, adds commentary, and proposes a change to your budget.

The workday stretches without anyone burning out. For you, this has a few implications.

First, you can make decisions faster. No more sitting on questions for weeks. Get the information, decide, move.

Second, you’ll interact more often in smaller bursts. Short questions, short answers, frequent nudges. Less dependence on the big once-a-year meeting.

Third, the line between “bookkeeper, accountant and business owner” blurs further.

From your point of view, you just have “finance” on tap. What should you do to make the most of this? The answer is get comfortable using the channels your accountant provides (portals, chat, apps). Ask questions when they arise, not when you remember. Encourage your team to do the same – especially around credit control and purchasing.

And a gentle warning. Just because the channel is open 24/7 doesn’t mean everything is urgent. Use instant access for information and small issues. Save the big, strategic decisions for properly scheduled sessions where you and your accountant can think.

Done right, 24/7 access should give you peace of mind, not constant noise. You know that when you need help, it’s there. Quickly. Calmly. With context.

Noel Guilford

P.S. If the idea of having timely answers and proactive nudges around your numbers appeals, get in touch and we’ll discuss how we can support you 24/7.