Important Questions to Ask When Finding a Bookkeeper

It’s a very busy time for small business owners, which can make it difficult to handle all the tasks that come with running a business. One way to help handle this environment? Bring on outside help with some of the more important business-related tasks. 

If you’re a business owner or manager, one of the most important helpful steps you can take is finding a bookkeeper.

Bookkeepers are responsible for maintaining your financial records, keeping track of transactions, and ensuring that your books are accurate and up-to-date. A good bookkeeper can help you make informed financial decisions and keep your business on track.

What should you ask a potential bookkeeper before you hire them? Read on and we’ll walk you through what you need to know. 

What Are Your Qualifications? 

Bookkeeping requires a certain level of skill and knowledge, so it’s important to ask about a bookkeeper’s qualifications.

Ideally, they should have some formal training in bookkeeping, accounting, or a related field. You can also ask about their experience and any certifications or licenses they may have.

While you might feel like you’re overstepping a personal boundary by asking this – you aren’t! As a potential client, you have a right to know what the person in question’s qualifications are, and they should be happy to provide them. 

What Software Do You Use? 

Bookkeeping software is essential for keeping accurate records, so it’s important to ask which software your potential bookkeeper uses.

They should be familiar with a variety of software options, such as QuickBooks, Xero, or FreshBooks. They should also be able to explain the benefits and drawbacks of each.

An online bookkeeper should also walk you through how they’ll keep you in the loop with these programs from afar. If you already have a program that you’re familiar with, it might be worth seeking a professional who is willing to use that program. 

How Will You Protect My Data?

As a small business, it’s important to take your cybersecurity seriously. 

Your financial records contain sensitive information, so it’s important to ask how your potential bookkeeper will handle data security.

They should be able to explain their protocols for keeping your data safe. Examples of their methods might include using encrypted software, backing up data regularly, or restricting access to sensitive information.

This is not something to overlook when speaking with a bookkeeping professional!

Finding a Bookkeeper for Your Business

Running a small business can require wearing many hats, but a bookkeeper doesn’t need to be one of them. However, it’s important to take the task of finding the right bookkeeper for your business seriously. 

The above are a few important questions to keep in mind when looking to bring someone on for your business. Finding a bookkeeper you like for your business can be easier with this information at your disposal. 

Ready to talk to someone about providing bookkeeping services for your small business? Give us a call anytime – we’re ready to talk.