If in the market for bookkeeping services, a flip through the yellow pages or Google search can make them all look the same. But of course as with any profession, not all bookkeepers are created equal. So how do you find one that is trustworthy AND competent enough to handle your precious finances? Look for these ten things.
1. Word of Mouth
Got a friend or business associate who goes on and on about how great their bookkeeper is? Do they save them tons of 
time that is well worth the money they spend? Then have a look at their pro for yourself to see if he or she matches up. It’s not a good idea to not automatically go for them based on one person’s approval, but it’s a good start.
2. Their Website
The digital storefront is expanding at a rate of several thousand new websites per day. And if your bookkeeping prospect doesn’t have one, what does that say about them? Not only does it mean they don’t know enough to get a website, it could also mean they aren’t up to date with the latest bookkeeping technology, which can cost you tons in man hours.
3. Bookkeeping Reviews
But don’t just stop at their site, go to a site like Yelp.com or Google reviews to see what other clients have to say about them. This one simple task can help you avoid a huge bookkeeping headache.
4. Bookkeeping on the BBB
We all know the Better Business Bureau is a great resource for all sorts of businesses. A simple search of the bookkeeping service you are interested in can tell you if there are any ongoing or unresolved complaints about the business.
5. Membership to the BBB
Ah, but do you want a bookkeeper who is a bona fide member of the Better Business Bureau? The short answer is not necessarily. The BBB doesn’t do much to screen members and often lets anyone in who is willing to pay their fee. The organization mostly helps consumers and businesses resolve their differences.
6. History and Experience of the Bookkeeper
How long has your potential bookkeeping service been in business? Do they have clients similar to you who work in similar areas? Do they know tips and tricks for your particular industry that can help you save big? All good questions to ask.
7. Ask for the Bookkeeping Client List
A hit or miss option. Some bookkeepers may understandably want to keep their client’s confidentiality, while others are all too happy to share. However, for bookkeeping services or firms who do share who their clients are, you can automatically see if your competitors and even friends are using them.
8. Communication is Key
Does your potential bookkeeper answer their phone and return their calls promptly? Do they answer your emails or respond to their contact form in an acceptable period of time? If they don’t, remember that if they won’t take the time to communicate with you when you are new, what’s going to happen if you’re a long time client with a huge and urgent problem?
9. Tax and Bookkeeping Combination
A great tip for saving money is to get a bookkeeper who can also prepare your taxes. Not only does he or she already have access to your records, they may even input information as they balance your books in order to save themselves time, which in short, saves you money.
10. Bookkeeping Options
Given that no bookkeeping client is the same, no bookkeeping plan should be the same. Your bookkeeper should be able to go over your business initially and make recommendations on what bookkeeping services they can provide. These can include but are not limited to:
- Weekly, monthly, or quarterly profit and loss statements.
- Reconciliation of bank accounts, credit cards, etc.
- Different software options that are compatible with your own, such as QuickBooks, Money, and others.
- Available options for inventory, payroll, and more.
- Instant alerts when the bookkeeping numbers are off.
- Detailed billing statements so you know what you are paying for.
Bookkeeping Services in Houston
And if you are in need of expert bookkeeping services in Houston or the surrounding area, please contact me.
