In Episode 96 of "What the Biz?!," hosts Brigitte Vegter and Dan Proczko tackle a topic nobody tells you about until it's too late: what to ask before hiring a bookkeeper. Moving beyond a simple conversation about price, they provide a list of ten essential questions that will save you time, money, and regret. This episode is a guide to finding a strategic financial partner, not just a data-entry person, who can help you grow your business.
Listeners will discover:
- The crucial difference between a CPA, a bookkeeper, and other financial roles, and why you need to match your business's needs to the right expert.
- Ten questions to ask a potential bookkeeper, from their philosophy and industry experience to how they handle cleanup work and onboard new clients.
- The red flags to watch out for, including partners who gate access to your own financial data.
- How a good bookkeeper can spot a $3,000 billing error and why that level of attention is essential for a growing business.
- Why you should look for a partner who offers a "grow with you" model and has a plan for when you outgrow their services.
In this episode, Brigitte and Dan provide a list of ten essential questions to ask before hiring a bookkeeper, saving you time, money, and regret.
Top 10 Questions:
- What is your bookkeeping philosophy? Look for someone who is strategic, not just reactive.
- Do you work with businesses like mine? Industry specialization can lead to better advice.
- What software do you use? A provider who specializes in one software is often better than one who claims to do it all.
- What will you need from me each month? Look for a partner who uses streamlined tools to make your life easier.
- How do you handle corrections or catch-up work? Ask about their process and whether they bill a flat fee or hourly.
- What happens if I outgrow your services? A good partner should have a plan for your growth.
- Who will I be working with on your team? Clarify who is accountable and who you'll be communicating with.
- What does communication look like? Ask about their preferred communication channels and response times.
- How will I know if my books are correct? Ensure they provide monthly reports and give you on-demand access to your data.
- What does your onboarding process look like? A clean, streamlined process is a sign of a professional firm.
Red Flags to Watch Out For:
- Saying "don't worry about it" when you ask for clarification.
- Using confusing accounting jargon instead of plain language.
- Gating your access to your own financial reports.
- Ghosting you or having poor communication.
Host Projects & Insights:
- Brigitte's Business: Preparing to launch a new "backwards bookkeeping" program for accountants. She also offers business wellness checks to help owners review their current books.
- Dan's Business: Recently onboarded six new clients and is preparing to speak at a marketing event.
- Personal Insights: The hosts discuss the welcome change in Michigan weather from 85 degrees to 66 and
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Hosts
Daniel Proczko - myPocketMarketing
Brigitte Vegter - Vegter Financial
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