What Should You Look for in a Bookkeeper?

When choosing a bookkeeper it is important to make sure they are the right bookkeeper for your company. Before you talk with a bookkeeper make a list of the tasks and function you would like them to fill. Although price is a factor it is not the most important. Consider the following:

• Interview a potential bookkeeper about your business and your needs. An experienced bookkeeper should be able to relate to the specific issues you are facing and should have ideas as to how to address them.
• Ask your potential bookkeeper what types of companies they have worked with. It is helpful to find a bookkeeper who has experience with companies similar to yours in both size and industry.
• It is best to choose a bookkeeper who uses the same software as your company. Ask them what software they use and prefer.
•  Ask for references. If the bookkeeper you are interviewing has worked well for others, then it is likely that they will for you as well.
• Inquire about their hours. Many bookkeepers work part-time or from home. This is not usually a problem, but it is important to make sure your bookkeeper will be available when you need bookkeeping services.
• Ask about their rates. It is often worth paying more if your bookkeeper will be in charge of your books. A competent, efficient bookkeeper will charge you for less hours and will save you money and time in other ways. On the other hand, if your bookkeeper will be doing pure data entry, then you shouldn't pay them as much.