The Number 1 Problem in Accounts Offshoring is POOR communication.

Hi everyone, 

Leading an accountancy firm in the UK and running an outsourcing business in India gives me a unique vantage point as I get to experience two completely different sides.  

Offshoring, when done right, can be transformative for your business.  

You’d think, given the volume of successful firms doing this, that offshoring is a well-oiled machine, right? But the truth is, most problems that arise come from one thing: poor communication. It’s never about technical expertise or even commitment—it’s how well you connect with each other. 

I see it all the time. UK and Indian firms struggle not because they’re not capable, but because they don’t fully understand how the other side operates or thinks.  

Western firms often expect offshore teams to align seamlessly, overlooking cultural nuances. Meanwhile, Indian firms may not be proactive in adjusting to a Western client’s expectations of clarity, timelines, or even leadership styles. 

The result? Misalignment. And that misalignment—often subtle at first—can lead to bigger frustrations down the road. 

So, how do you avoid that? The solution is simple, though not always easy: You build a bridge.  

First, cultural sensitivity is key. So much so that Forbes reports 70% of communication breakdowns in outsourcing relationships are due to cultural differences. 

For UK firms, this means stepping out of your comfort zone. You’ve got to go beyond the idea of just "hiring" an offshore team. Spend time understanding them.  

Visit your team in India if you can—see their work environment, experience their approach. It’s about knowing what drives them and how they interpret your instructions, feedback, and business goals.  

Without this, you'll always be slightly out of sync, and that gap is where inefficiencies and misunderstandings thrive. 

Now, on the flip side, Indian firms have their part to play too.  

If you’re an offshore service provider, you're not just a back-office resource—you are an extension of the UK or US firm you work with. And to truly deliver, you must master soft skills.  

In fact, HBR reports 61% of clients say soft skills like emotional intelligence and active listening matter more than technical skills in long-term offshore partnerships. 

Among the essential skills of future accountants, soft skills are the differentiators. The better you can communicate, anticipate, and respond to client needs, the more indispensable you become. 

One of the most powerful lessons I’ve learned in my 25 years is this: people do business with people they trust.  

AI and automation will transform accounting but human connection, trust, and understanding remain essential—and even more important in a fast-changing world. 

Offshoring and outsourcing can be a real game-changer for your firm, but only if both sides see it for what it truly is—a partnership.  

It’s not just about hiring cheaper labour or getting things done faster. It’s about blending different cultures, working styles, and values to create something stronger than what either side could achieve alone. 

If you get this right, offshoring and outsourcing can be competitive advantage that can set you apart. But it requires effort from both sides. 

For a more in-depth and interactive view into things, register today for my free Autumn webinar series designed to help you grow a successful firm!  

Want to dig deeper into this conversation? Join us at the Samera Global Summit this December in Delhi. Together, we’ll explore how to make your offshore team your greatest advantage: 

Until next time,  

Arun 

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