There are many areas in which chartered accountants can help SME owners and families. An integrated approach can add value and deliver a rounded package of services to meet broader client needs.

The ability to deliver a premium value service pivots around a collaborative business model, with an established network of regulated financial advisers, lawyers and other professionals.

To illustrate this, the guide will present the case study of SME owners Peter and Pat Pickle, who have reviewed their life goals and want to sell their business in the next two years, provided they have enough to enjoy a long retirement together.

Other examples within the guide further show how collaboration can help clients to meet their goals.

The guide highlights:

• the importance of the client discovery meeting and how it is structured, from pre-meeting fact-finding to teasing out core priorities and aspirations and setting out next steps;
• tips on how you can move towards a more collaborative business model;
• professional standards and the role of the Designated Professional Body (DPB) Licence;
• a summary of inheritance tax legislation; and
• planning strategies and related regulation.