Hiring a bookkeeper is definitely the right decision for a small business however, it’s even more critical that you find the right bookkeeper for your business.
This process requires a lot of patience, research and due diligence.
Remember, the bookkeeper is working for you so you should set the right expectations to make sure you achieve the best results.
Taking the above into consideration, let’s take a look at the top 10 expectations you should set for your bookkeeper to help with your search and beyond.
1. Proper Understanding of Terminology In Accounting And Bookkeeping
As a small business owner, you might have a thorough understanding of accounting but that doesn’t mean you know how to keep your books.
That’s where a bookkeeper comes in handy and is a smart choice for your business.
With the right bookkeeping and accounting knowledge, they can organise and prepare your business for taxation and keep you informed about the progress of your business accordingly.
By having the necessary experience, they will easily understand all the various accounting and bookkeeping terminology as well as the procedures.
2. Minimal Supervision
You need a bookkeeper who can perform their day to day tasks with minimal supervision. Remember, bookkeeping is just one small part of your business.
As the business owner, you need to concentrate and focus on so many other things.
You don’t have the time to keep tracking down small details or following up on important financial tasks such as paying your tax when it’s due.
Your bookkeeper should be able to take care of the many and varied financial aspects of the business with minimal or no supervision.
3. Proper Understanding Of Your Industry
Most bookkeepers can carry their skills effortlessly from one industry to another. However, your bookkeeper should still have some understanding of your industry.
That’s why it’s an advantage if you hire one who has some experience in your industry, especially if it’s a bit technical.
Remember, there may be some aspects of the job that are specific to your industry so an experienced bookkeeper in your industry can be a great help.
4. Preparedness
One of the most important qualities of any bookkeeper is to be prepared.
They need to have the financial records ready whenever investors or lenders might ask for them.
Additionally, a good bookkeeper should always have the tax records ready to avoid any fines and penalties imposed by the ATO.
Finally, whenever you need access to the business records for planning or other purposes, your bookkeeper should be readily prepared with that information.
5. Committed To Your Business
A lot of small businesses with minimal resources often hire part-time bookkeepers who are not devoted to their business.
You need to take the time to find and hire a bookkeeper who is committed to your business for the best results.
6. Excellent Communication Skills
Finding a bookkeeper who can work independently yet is not afraid to ask for clarification about certain matters are worth their weight in gold.
The last thing you need when running your business is to find out that a small issue has been swept under the carpet and has become a big issue.
Open and clear communication helps to prevent this type of thing from bringing disruption to your business.
7. Tech Savvy
There are currently numerous different types of bookkeeping software on the market, with most of these programs now cloud-based.
It’s become more important now than ever before that your bookkeeper understands how the cloud works and embraces it.
It is also an advantage if your bookkeeper is reasonably tech savvy so that they can work independently without too many technical concerns and interruptions.
8. Ready To Learn
The accounting industry is massive and there are always new practises popping up.
Your bookkeeper should be ready to learn what’s new in the industry and apply it to your business for the best results.
9. Detail Oriented
A good bookkeeper should be detail oriented and focus on the little things.
Remember, bookkeeping can be exhausting and it can be easy to lose track of where you’re at.
However, paying attention to all the small details can prevent some costly mistakes in your business.
10. Integrity
Remember, your bookkeeper will be handling all your financial records. They have access to your business’ money and other sensitive financial information.
Anyone in this position should exhibit a very high level of integrity to prevent any financial damage to your business.
Conclusion
A bookkeeper is very important to any small business. They are charged with Nuhandling payroll, taxation and a myriad of other financial duties.
Once you set your expectations as the owner, the bookkeeper should pick up the mantle and help you to make your business successful.
Are you looking for a trustworthy and reliable bookkeeping service at reasonable prices? If so, then look no further than Numbers Pro.
If you are looking for a blend of truly personal service and expertise, please call us today on 03 9510 2120 or contact us through our website https://numberspro.com.au/contact-us/
