Hiring your own bookkeeper can seem like an overwhelming process, especially if you’ve never done it before. However, there are some specific points to consider when hiring someone that will make the process smoother and ensure your needs are met. Follow this step-by-step guide to learn how to hire a bookkeeper by asking the right questions, knowing what tasks are most important and how to find the right match for your business.
1) Understanding the Needs of Your Business
Hiring the right bookkeeper will not only keep your finances organized, but it can also save you hours of time that can be used to do other things. A lot of business owners try to take on this responsibility themselves and it becomes burdensome. Unless you have accounting skills, find yourself an expert who understands your business and has the time to dedicate for tax season every year.
2) Finding the Right Bookkeeper for Your Business
The most important thing is that your bookkeeper has an understanding of the company’s industry and business models. Having a bookkeeper that understands the nuts and bolts of how you do business is critical for them to produce the reports and data you need, as well as be able to give you strategic insights.
The next important aspect of finding a bookkeeping firm is that they are well-equipped for the scope of your needs. This includes having staff with certain technical skills, as well as managers who can communicate with your team.
It also helps if there is overlap between your company’s accounting needs, so they may already have their own system in place and won’t need to set up one from scratch just for your company.
3) Ensuring Communication between Client and Bookkeeper
Communication with your bookkeeper is key, so make sure that they are always accessible. For example, if you only want them to be contacted via email, ensure that the corresponding address is up-to-date. If this is not possible, you can add a contact number or even on your letterhead in order for your clients to use if necessary.
4) Set Expectations from the Start
Before hiring a bookkeeper, you should have some expectations from the start. I recommend that you create a list of the qualities and traits that you would like in your bookkeeper before looking for one. Here are the top five things you need to think about: 1) What experience do they have? 2) Do they offer more than just bookkeeping services? 3) Will I be able to pick up the phone and call them at any time? 4) Can I afford their price? 5) Are they available when needed? 6) What is their personality type and how will it fit with my business? 7) How much interaction will we have day-to-day or week-to-week? 8 ) Am I comfortable working with someone who has certain skills that might be above mine or where I’m not an expert?
