So, you’ve decided it’s time to outsource your bookkeeping and hire a professional!
What should you look for?
What questions can you ask potential bookkeepers to determine whether or not they would be the right fit for you and your business?
Do they have the knowledge and skill you need?
Notice I said knowledge and skill. There is a big difference between these and experience. Just because your prospective bookkeeper has little (or no) experience does not mean that they lack the knowledge and skill you might be looking for.
Are they certified in any accounting software?
What type of education have they received?
What skills do they have that overlap into the bookkeeping world such as organization, communication, attention to detail, problem solving, etc.?
Are they experienced in your industry? If not, are they ready and willing to learn?
[insert your industry here] expert? Great! But if not, again, just because a prospective bookkeeper may lack experience in your industry does not mean that they couldn’t still be the perfect fit. You need to determine how flexible you are with any potential learning curve. Perhaps their passion outweighs the lack of experience?
How do they price their services?
Some bookkeepers charge by the hour while others charge a fixed monthly fee. If they charge by the hour, does their rate fall within your budget? How do they track their time? If they offer fixed monthly fees, be sure you clearly understand what is (and what is not) included in that fixed rate.
Do they fit within the culture and vision you have for your business?
Ask them to tell you about themselves.
Why did they become a bookkeeper?
What are some of their personal interests?
What types of things do they enjoy when they aren’t working?
What are they passionate about?
This list should get you started, but a final piece of advice.. Trust your gut. You know your business better than anyone.. and finding a good fit for your team is invaluable.
Click here if you’re interested in finding out if we would be a good fit!