How to Get the Most Out of Your Bookkeeper

So, you've hired a bookkeeper for your small business. Now what?

You need to set the stage for a productive relationship! A bookkeeper is not an unknown, hidden figure crunching numbers in the background. They are a vital part of your small business's financial success.

Set tasks for your bookkeeper that benefit your business. Establish the standard you expect early in your working relationship.

Get the most out of your bookkeeper with these important rules.

Expect Accuracy

Be sure your bookkeeper has a system for checking and balancing the work they do. Understand how they check for errors, reconcile accounts and audit themselves. Ask for periodic reconciliation reports.

Expecting accuracy from your bookkeeper requires a level of trust. Turning your financial information over to another individual can be intimidating. Yet, it is necessary for your bookkeeper to do their job well.

Missing information can increase the risk of costly mistakes in your books. Make sure your bookkeeper has all the important financial information related to your small business. This will help them advise you about good financial decisions, too.

Communicate Frequently

Your relationship with your bookkeeper hinges on clear and frequent communication. Treat them as a member of the team. Communicate with your bookkeeper as frequently as you would any other employee.

Plan for regular meetings. Even if it's only a 15 minute Skype meeting, use this time to connect and chat with your bookkeeper about the health of your small business finances.

Expect to receive reports and updates from your bookkeeper on a consistent basis. Discuss them in your meetings and request clarification when you don't understand something.

Remember, this person knows your business finances better than anyone. Your bookkeeper can advise you about small business financing and future growth. Discuss financial plans and goals for your business together.

Set Clear Expectations

Don't leave anything up to interpretation. Set clear expectations up front about the tasks you require from your bookkeeper. Make sure they understand exactly what is expected from them.

Put your expectations in writing so you both feel comfortable with the expected amount of work. Being clear up front helps define your working relationship. It sets the stage for productivity and fewer mistakes in the future.

Cash Flow Management

You've worked hard to provide an excellent product to your customers. You deserve to get paid. Your bookkeeper can turn unpaid invoices into payments.

Bookkeepers are financial professionals. They have the skills to work with your customers on invoicing, making payments and the terms of their contracts. Let your bookkeeper assist you and your staff with accounts receivable tasks.

Productive Bookkeepers Make Small Business Success

Don't just have your bookkeeper crunch the numbers. Treat them like a member of the team! Bring them into the fold, and allow them to be an important part of your small business financial success.

Need More Help?

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