5 Tips for a Positive Relationship with Your Outsourced Bookkeeper
Building a collaborative relationship is essential to getting the most from professional expertise when hiring a bookkeeper or using an outsourced bookkeeper. Your bookkeeper does more than handle the numbers—they offer valuable insights and guidance to support your business decisions and help you reach your goals.
A quick note on terminology: while "bookkeeper" and "accountant" have distinct definitions—bookkeepers handle the daily recording of transactions, and accountants focus on financial analysis and reporting—we may use these terms interchangeably for simplicity. In essence, both work together to support your financial goals and an outsourced bookkeeper, in particular, can be a tremendous asset to small business owners.
Here are five tips to help you foster a productive and positive working relationship with your outsourced bookkeeper or accountant.
1. Communicate & Collaborate
Open, clear communication sets the foundation for a strong relationship. When working with outsourced bookkeeping services, it's essential to stay responsive and keep the lines of communication open. This includes answering calls or emails from your bookkeeper and promptly providing necessary documents. Let your bookkeeper know your preferred communication channels and expected response times; this prevents misunderstandings and helps everyone stay on the same page.
If you want a clear view of your finances and aim to reduce tax season surprises, make sure to discuss your needs openly. Don't hesitate to ask questions or request clarification on anything confusing. Bookkeepers are used to working with clients at various knowledge levels, so they'll be happy to explain things in a way you can understand. When you foster this collaboration, your bookkeeper can offer more relevant insights that align with your business's goals.
2. Organize & Share Financial Information
A well-organized flow of information is critical for efficient small business bookkeeping. By organizing your financial information and ensuring your bookkeeper has access to all necessary documents, you empower them to do their job effectively. This includes bank statements, invoices, tax records, and access to any software or systems where financial data is stored.
If you're still working with paper records, consider transitioning to a cloud-based accounting solution like QuickBooks. Such tools streamline collaboration by allowing both you and your outsourced accountant to view real-time financial data, which can reduce errors and boost productivity.
For example, JLS Accounting, as a QuickBooks ProAdvisor Elite member, can help set up and manage cloud-based accounting systems tailored to your business needs. Switching to digital records not only saves time but can enhance the accuracy and security of your financial data.
3. Share Your Business Goals & Budget
Your outsourced accountant or bookkeeper can offer the best support when they understand your business's financial goals and budget constraints. Whether you aim to increase profitability, cut unnecessary expenses, or invest in growth opportunities, communicating these goals will help your bookkeeper provide insights that keep you on track.
Whenever there's a significant event or change in your business—like a new partnership, major purchase, or seasonal revenue shift—keep your bookkeeper informed. These events may require adjustments to your financial strategy, and your accountant can help guide you through it. Proactive updates also prevent last-minute surprises and help your accountant deliver accurate reports that reflect the reality of your business operations.
4. Trust Your Accountant's Expertise
An outsourced accounting service brings specialized knowledge and perspective that can strengthen your business. After all, you hired a professional to handle your finances, so take their advice seriously. Your accountant can help you identify potential cost-saving measures, streamline processes, and avoid common bookkeeping mistakes that could otherwise harm your business.
Accountants are also skilled in recognizing trends or irregularities in your finances, which can provide valuable insights into strategic decision-making. Listen to their recommendations with an open mind, and remember that their role is to support your business's financial health. Trusting their expertise and embracing their insights can ultimately lead to better financial outcomes.
5. Don't Be Afraid to Raise Concerns
Every business relationship may have occasional friction, but how you address it can strengthen the partnership. If you're ever dissatisfied with a particular aspect of your bookkeeper's work, bring it up promptly and professionally. Discussing concerns as they arise, instead of allowing them to fester, helps prevent misunderstandings and enables your bookkeeper to make necessary adjustments.
Keep in mind that your outsourced accountant's goal is to support your business, and they'll appreciate your honesty. Constructive feedback not only helps your bookkeeper improve but also builds mutual respect. When both parties feel heard and understood, it leads to a more cooperative, productive relationship in the long run.
Your Next Step
By focusing on these tips, you can foster a positive and productive relationship with your outsourced bookkeeper, ultimately gaining a reliable partner in your business's financial success.
Still not convinced you want to outsource your small business bookkeeping? Read 7 Compelling Reasons to Partner with an Outsourced Accounting Firm.
We’re on your side, so if you're looking to hire an accountant who values this collaborative approach, contact JLS Accounting today to learn how we can support your business.