What Should you Look for in a Small Business Bookkeeper?

Bookkeeping is a vital part of successfully operating any business. Unfortunately, it is complicated and time consuming. As a business owner, there are many benefits to outsourcing your bookkeeping needs. If you are looking to hire a bookkeeper, here are seven of the things that you will want to look for as you go about hiring the right bookkeeper for your business.

Their Education

First and foremost, ask a bookkeeper what their educational background looks like. Have they taken college courses at a local community college or did they get a degree in an accounting-related field or a business-related field? Their education may have a direct impact on what they know how to do so always ask what their education looks like.

How Much Experience They Have

Next, ask about their experience in the field. Are they new to bookkeeping or have they been doing it for some time? How long have they been doing? What skills have they learned during their time working as a bookkeeper? What other relevant experience do they have that may benefit your business? Always ask about their experience as you want someone who understands the bookkeeping field well.

What Software Systems They Use

Another important thing to look for in a bookkeeper is what types of software systems they use. Bookkeepers can use different types of software including Microsoft Excel, QuickBooks or Bill.com. You want to find a bookkeeper who knows how to use the system that your business is already set up using, or a system that is compatible with the system you are using. You don’t want to have to train someone on how to use software.

What Their Policies and Procedures Are

Every bookkeeper has their own policies and procedures. Ask them to look over these policies and procedures and make sure you understand, agree to and can conform to them. For example, a bookkeeper may ask you to supply receipts within 30 days or financials within 14 days. If you can’t meet what they need, you need to find a bookkeeper who you can work with.

What Work You Are Required to Do

The fifth thing you want to pay attention to when you are hiring a bookkeeper is what work you are expected to do for the bookkeeper. Some may ask you to input data and email it to them. Some may ask you to put receipts in dated order before submitting them. Always find out what the bookkeeper expects you to do in order for them to do their job. Some may want more work out of you, while some may want less.

If They Help With Tax Preparation

Not every bookkeeper can help you with your taxes. Always ask a bookkeeper if they can help you with tax preparation or not. If you have a tax preparer or accountant, this may be irrelevant to you. But if you do not, this may be a deal breaker for you.

How They Can Help With Cash Flow Management

Lastly, be sure to ask a bookkeeper how they can help you with cash flow management. You want a bookkeeper who can give you advice on managing your cash flow and look for patterns. Asking this question helps you determine how much help a bookkeeper can provide you with this topic.

There  are many factors you need to consider when you are looking to hire a bookkeeper, including the seven things listed above. Here at The Blue Collar Team, our contractors can help you with all of your bookkeeping needs. We are QuickBooks Pro Advisors and we understand all of your business needs. Contact us today to discuss your business and bookkeeping needs and let us assist you.