Choosing a Bookkeeper

Choosing the right bookkeeper is a very critical decision for your business. Here are some tips to help you in your search:

1. Trust

Make sure you choose someone that you trust since they are dealing with your money and lots of privileged information. If you know other business owners that you trust, you could ask them for a referral to their bookkeeper as this could instill some trust right from the beginning. You could also ask the bookkeeper for some client referrals, that way you can talk to business owners using them already.

2. Communication

Excellent communication is very important as you want a bookkeeper who will get back to you quickly, as often you need financial data in a timely manner. I suggest asking them if they stay up to date on other clients’ financials and send monthly reports on time.

3. Experienced

You should ask the potential bookkeeper how many years of experience they have and if they have any certifications. CPB Canada is a member-based association, a national certifying body, and the leading professional and career development organization for bookkeepers in Canada so you could ask them if they are a member or a Certified Professional Bookkeeper. That is usually a good indication that they are experienced and committed to keeping up to date with Canadian bookkeeping.

4. Understands your Industry

You should find out if they have any other clients in your industry as they will be able to serve you better and understand your goals.

5. Affinity

Lastly if they have ticked off all the other boxes, make sure you have affinity with them. Since this is someone you are going to deal with regularly, you should like them and look forward to speaking to them.