Don't Let Your Business Finances Be a Comedy of Errors: Tips for Finding a Reliable Bookkeeper

Attention all small business owners! If you're tired of feeling like you're juggling chainsaws when it comes to managing your finances, it's time to bring in a professional. A reliable bookkeeper can help you keep your finances in order and avoid any costly mistakes. But how do you find the perfect bookkeeper for your business?

Here are some tips that will help you avoid any financial disasters:

Qualifications and Experience

You wouldn't trust your life to a novice tightrope walker, would you? Of course not! When it comes to hiring a bookkeeper, you want to make sure you're not hiring a clown who's just going to juggle your numbers around. You need someone who has the qualifications and experience necessary to handle your specific financial needs. Make sure to ask about their credentials and experience. If they don't have any experience in your industry, it's time to look for someone who does.

Specialization

Just like in the circus, not all bookkeepers are the same. Some specialize in small businesses, some in taxes, and some in unicorns (okay, maybe not that last one). But seriously, find a bookkeeper who specializes in the areas relevant to your business. For example, if you're in the entertainment industry, look for a bookkeeper who understands the unique financial challenges that come with it. Don't hire a tightrope walker to handle your finances if they've never worked in your industry before.

Ask for References

You wouldn't let a clown into your business without checking their references, so why would you do it with your bookkeeper? Make sure to ask for references from previous or current clients. This will give you an idea of their experience and reliability. And if they don't have any references, it's time to say "adios" to that clown.

Communication Skills

When it comes to financial matters, you don't want to be lost in translation. Make sure your bookkeeper can communicate effectively with you and your team. If they start speaking in financial jargon that you don't understand, it's time to give them the boot. A good bookkeeper should be able to explain financial matters in plain English, not in some ancient financial dialect.

Consider Costs

We know that running a business can be expensive, so you don't want to break the bank hiring a bookkeeper. But at the same time, you don't want to hire the cheapest clown in town. Look for different quotes and choose the one that suits your budget and business needs. And remember, a good bookkeeper will save you time and money in the long run.

Now that you know what to look for in a bookkeeper, let's talk about some other benefits of having a professional handle your finances.

Peace of Mind

As a small business owner, you already have enough on your plate without worrying about the accuracy of your financial records. When you hire a bookkeeper, you can rest easy knowing that your finances are in good hands. You'll have peace of mind knowing that your financial records are accurate, up-to-date, and in compliance with all relevant laws and regulations.

Time-Saving

Let's face it, managing your finances can be a time-consuming and tedious task. But when you hire a bookkeeper, you'll have more time to focus on what you do best - running your business. You won't have to worry about spending hours reconciling accounts or dealing with the headaches that come with tax season.

Financial Analysis

A good bookkeeper doesn't just keep your finances in order, they can also provide valuable insights into your business's financial health. They can analyze your financial data to identify trends, opportunities for growth, and potential areas for improvement. This information can help you make better business decisions and ultimately lead to greater success.

Conclusion

A reliable bookkeeper is a vital part of any successful small business. They can help you avoid costly mistakes, save time, and provide valuable insights into your business's financial health. When looking for a bookkeeper, make sure to consider their qualifications, experience, specialization, communication skills, and costs. And remember, just like in the circus, not all bookkeepers are created equal. Find the perfect one for your business and watch your finances soar!

If you are looking for a bookkeeper, give me a call at 406-480-6622 or you can book an appointment with me here.

Cheers!

Jake Linville, CPA

Any accounting, business or tax advice contained in this communication, including attachments and enclosures, is not intended as a thorough, in-depth analysis of specific issues, nor a substitute for a formal opinion, nor is it sufficient to avoid tax-related penalties. If desired, we would be pleased to perform the requisite research and provide you with a detailed written analysis. Such an engagement may be the subject of a separate engagement letter that would define the scope and limits of the desired consultation services.