Bookkeeping is a task that requires knowledge of credit and debit as well as a basic understanding of balance sheets and income statements. It involves retrieving, recording, and storing all sorts of financial transactions that an individual, company, or non-profit organization has undergone. Some of the these include monitoring accounts receivables, providing financial reports, paying suppliers, verifying and recording invoices from suppliers, and billing for whatever goods or services is sold.
In the past, all aspects of bookkeeping have been done manually. Now, computer software is being used as a form of assistance to help make the task easier and more accurate. As a result, it speeds up the processes of the companies involved.
Starting a bookkeeping business, just like starting any other form of business, is never easy. However, there are a few steps you can take when starting off to set you up for success. Explore some of them below:
1. Get Training
Whether you settle for a sole proprietorship, a partnership, or a limited liability, knowledge and skills in the trade are essential. To stand out from the crowd, you need to be conversant with the industry’s requirements. If you already have some basic bookkeeping knowledge, then your franchise could choose to major in areas you want to specialize in.
Learn what software is necessary and keep up with the trends. In addition, get the necessary certification and join appropriate professional bodies. When you appear professional, clients will feel comfortable and trust you more with their financial records.
2. Offer Value for Money
For your business to survive beyond the startup phase, you have to offer top-notch services. Be available when clients need you and have a network of professionals from whom you can outsource when work is too much.
While you shouldn’t bite off more than you can chew, your workforce wouldn’t be overworked if you have a backup plan. This is better than submitting work that doesn’t meet the standards or accepting work and won’t be able to submit them all in time.
Be familiar with services related to your field and know the people offering them, so you can just refer clients when they are looking for services outside your area of specialization.
3. Market your Work
Clients will never find you if you don’t let them know that you exist. You have to go and find them, and prepare some marketing materials as well. Depending on your budget, you can opt for some simple ones or engage in a robust marketing campaign.
If needed, hire the services of a freelance designer. You could also download free (or paid) templates for your materials online. Remember that your marketing copy should emphasize what services your bookkeeping business offers and focus on the gains that clients stand to reap. You could also leverage the power of online marketing by creating a strong online presence using a website and social media platforms.
Making some extra effort upon starting your bookkeeping business will go a long way in boosting performance. Start off by getting appropriate training, offer great services, and get the word out there about your existence.
