Hopefully, your accountant has given you some bookkeepers they recommend. But what do you need to look for in a bookkeeper?
A bookkeeper is with you in the day-to-day running of the business so the first thing you need to look for in a bookkeeper is whether you can trust them. My clients often say I know everything about them and in some cases, it feels like it!
But trust is a huge thing and will take time to build so do your research interview them and take time to choose one carefully.
Systems and Responsiveness
A good bookkeeper will have an efficient bookkeeping system they use to ensure their client’s bookkeeping is done correctly and on time. Particularly if they have staff. You will be able to ascertain this within the first few pieces of correspondence.
Do they respond on time? Do they have a system for asking you questions about your business setting up appointments?
Scope of Work and Financial Health
A good bookkeeper will “scope” the work you need to be done well and provide you with a concise engagement letter/proposal outlining the work they will be doing for you and how much that will be. (If they are doing an hourly rate ask them how many hours they estimate it will take each month/quarter.)
They may even charge to quote for their bookkeeping services and that is good. This should give you confidence that they are doing thorough investigations to offer you the services you need not what they think you should have.
A good bookkeeper will be running a profitable business. How can you know this? As a business owner, you will intuitively sense the financial health of their operation. If any aspect of their business raises concerns, it warrants careful consideration.
Compatibility and Investment in Your Success
A good bookkeeper will assess whether you and your business will be a good fit with theirs. The bookkeeping/business owner relationship is so close that both parties must be able to communicate well and know what each other’s expectations are. A really good bookkeeper will be honest and tell you if you are not the right fit for their business.
A really good bookkeeper will be interested in your business and make its financial success their priority. Do you? Do you make your business’s financial success a priority? If so then you need to look for a really good bookkeeper.
Your Trusted Bookkeepers at Additional Business Concepts
At Additional Business Concepts, we understand the importance of finding a bookkeeper who not only possesses the necessary skills and systems but also aligns with your business values and goals. Our team of qualified bookkeepers and BAS agents are committed to your financial success. Connect with us today to discover how we can support your business’s growth and financial health.