How to Build a Virtual Bookkeeping Empire - Our Guide
If you have a knack for numbers and know the nightmare that is a startup without bookkeeping services, why not offer your expertise for extra income? Bookkeeper consultants are responsible for keeping track of a company’s payables and receivables, and financial transactions. The key to developing your virtual bookkeeping service is a reliable Internet connection, a knowledge of mathematics, and the appropriate business software. Ready to begin?
What it Takes to Become a Bookkeeper
Bookkeepers don’t need a college degree—but a bit of accounting knowledge in your back pocket wouldn’t hurt. If you lack formal training, shop certification courses, or classes online. Other than necessary computer skills, you’ll need a decent tech stack, which comprises the following.
A Bookkeeping Business Software
A trustworthy software should streamline your workflow and give users easy access to all financial records. Cloud-based tools such as QuickBooks keep accounts and statements centralized, eliminating the need for a paper trail. With the right tools, you can offer clients the support they deserve while staying on top of your tasks.
A Video Conferencing App
Putting a face to a name humanizes business personas. Texts and phone calls may suffice but are often less personal.
A Business Monitoring Software
If you’re working with more than one client, monitoring software can help you keep an eye on your accounting. If a particular company employs you, you’ll be compensated according to their payroll cycle. If you’re an independent contractor, you can make individual arrangements.
A Virtual Bookkeeper’s Action Plan
Becoming a bookkeeper advisor isn’t as simple as publishing a workplace ad. A plethora of remote bookkeepers make it necessary to give your business an edge over serious competitors. What that edge is is entirely up to you—perhaps it's the speed at which you sweep tasks or a more desirable fee.
As with any individual dipping their toes into the business pool, first, create a budget and business plan. From there, begin compiling your certifications and molding a business structure.
Once you’ve selected the appropriate hardware and software, spend some time creating your website. Let business owners know why your services are necessary—yours in particular. If site visitors are on the fence, publish your license, or offer a limited trial. Businesses want to know they can trust you.
After that, it’s time to promote your business. As always, social media is the place to be. Advertise your services on Facebook or LinkedIn. If you have a few satisfied customers on your roster, publish social proof by way of testimonials.
Now that the birthing pains are over, your business cycle is all about growth. How can you expand your offering? Is it time to hire an assistant? Whether you remain an individual contractor or work towards becoming a full-fledged service is up to your commitment level.
Conclusion
Starting a virtual bookkeeping service is a marriage between technical skill and dedication. For a growing business, navigating numbers can be tricky and time-consuming—something a steadfast bookkeeper can alleviate.
Sometimes, getting started can leave you stumped. If you need a little coaching, reach out to us at Quasar Cowboy Consulting, where we equip bookkeeping newbies with the appropriate tools and always-fresh ideas.