Essential Guide to Securing Your First Bookkeeping Client: Proven Tips & Strategies
Every business, no matter how small, needs a system to keep track of its money and make smart decisions. Bookkeepers are really important for this. If you’re a bookkeeper or thinking of becoming one, there’s a growing demand for online bookkeeping, which means big opportunities.
Online bookkeeping is popular because businesses want remote ways to manage their money. Virtual bookkeepers are needed because they can work with clients from anywhere, thanks to the flexibility and efficiency of online services.
So, what does a bookkeeper do? They mainly track money coming in and going out, update financial records, and make sure everything is correct. They also need to know how to use accounting software like QuickBooks and be good at organizing and analyzing information.
There’s a lot of potential for a successful career in online bookkeeping. But to start a freelance bookkeeping career, you need more than just the right skills; you also need to know how to get and keep clients.
How to Attract Clients as a First-Time Freelance Bookkeeper
So, you’re just starting out as a freelance bookkeeper and want to attract clients? Here are some strategies that can help you not only attract clients but also convince them that you are the right person for their bookkeeping needs:
Make a Good Online Portfolio
Think of your portfolio as your online CV. It should show off your skills, experience, and examples of your work. This will help clients see what you can do and how you can help them.
Be Active in Networking
Networking is more than just going to events. It’s about making friends, building relationships, and showing people that you’re a reliable expert in your field. Talk to people both in person and online on sites like LinkedIn.
Choose a Specific Industry
While it’s good to know a bit of everything, focusing on one industry can help you stand out from the crowd. Whether it’s online shopping, healthcare, or something else, knowing a lot about one area can make you more appealing to clients in that industry.
Give Free Consultations
This is a good way to show off your bookkeeping skills and understanding. It also lets you understand what the client needs and show them how you can help.
Give Great Customer Service
Good customer service helps keep clients for a long time. Be quick to respond, communicate well, and always try to go above and beyond for your clients.
Ask for Referrals
If your clients are happy with your service, don’t be shy about asking them to refer you to others. They might know other businesses that need your services.
Keep Learning
The world of bookkeeping is always changing. Stay ahead by continuing to learn, whether through courses or by keeping up with industry news and trends.
Use Social Media
Social media can help you build your personal brand and show yourself as a leader in your field. Share things that are relevant, join in discussions, and connect with others in your industry.
Price Services Fairly
Understand the value you give and price your services based on that. While you don’t want to sell yourself short, it’s also important to make sure your prices are fair and competitive.
Create a Strong Brand
Your brand is what makes you different from others. It should show who you are, what you do, and how you do it. A strong brand can help you stand out in the market.
Prepare for Client Interviews
Preparation is key to doing well in client interviews. Do your research about the client’s business, be ready to show off your skills, and always be professional during the meeting.
Making It Big as a Freelance Bookkeeper
To make it big as a freelance bookkeeper, you need a good plan, lots of hard work, and never give up. There are many things you can do to help you get more clients and grow your business, like using social media and doing well in client interviews.
When it comes to how much money you can make, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says that bookkeepers made around $45,860 per year on average in May 2022. But as a freelancer, your income can be different because it depends on things like how many clients you have, what you charge them, and what services you offer.
Some sources say that freelance bookkeepers can make about $83,728 per year on average. On websites like Upwork, bookkeepers usually make around $15 per hour, but this can be anywhere between $11 and $25.
Remember, the key to being successful is to do a great job for your clients. You should always try to do better than what your clients expect and meet their needs. Keep up with the latest trends in the industry, keep improving your skills, and always aim to do the best you can. If you do these things and have the right attitude, you can have a great career as a freelance bookkeeper.
