You need to start somewhere, so start asking people you know in similar businesses who they use or recommend. Ask friends, family, or anyone else you trust if they have any wisdom to convey on the subject. Once you have a list, you need to narrow it down to the top three or four. Call the firms on the long list and ask someone qualified a couple simple questions to see if they are at all compatible. If not, that's an easy elimination.
Many accountants specialize in a particular kind of business.
If there is a chance that the only partner in the firm will pack up shop and go to work for a Big 5 firm, steer clear. If they have computers and e-mail, it's a good sign that they speak the same language as you. Conduct interviews . Once you have your short list, conduct interviews with a partner from each firm on the list. If they have gotten this far with you, chances are they are qualified to handle your account.