How to Identify a Good Bookkeeper

Good bookkeeping is integral to the success and longevity of a business. A professional bookkeeper is a person who is capable of looking over different financial aspects of a company, including accounts, payroll, and taxation. All matters that correspond to the assets of a big or small organization are delicate, which is why the person handling them should be someone you can depend on. If this is the first time you are looking to hire a bookkeeper or you are unhappy with the current one, you need to set a bar. Look for the mentioned bookkeeping attributes in the candidates you shall interview for the job:

Qualified and Experienced

A candidate possessing a certified degree or diploma related to bookkeeping is a good start. They should be familiar with basic terms of the field and be able to correctly answer questions relevant to the position. However, even if the person does not have the specific qualifications for the job, contemplate their experience. Have they previously worked for a firm similar to yours and how did it pan out? Perhaps an individual who has worked as a bookkeeper for a small café shall not be a good fit for a giant personal injury law firm. 

The bookkeeper you hire must be well aware of your industry and be comfortable working in that particular environment. They should have the knowledge to provide advice during adverse situations and rescue your business from major financial losses.  

Organized and Punctual

Bookkeeping is all about timely management and organization. If the bookkeeper cannot keep financial records in order and disregards deadlines, they are pretty much useless. Keeping track of business finances on your own can get messy, and a bookkeeper is explicitly hired to resolve that issue. Someone who is detail oriented and has a knack for numbers is perfect for the job. 

Communication and Interpersonal Skills

You may experience trouble understanding a person who constantly uses bookkeeping jargon during conversations. You need a bookkeeper with excellent communication skills, i.e. he/she must explain everything in an uncomplicated manner. They should be able to simplify and elaborate difficult terms, in order to keep you up-to-date with useful financial information. Interpersonal skills are necessary, especially if your bookkeeper has to collaborate with a team. It is important that they exhibit confidence and mingle easily.  

Honest and Reliable

The last thing you need is your bookkeeper making false promises and keeping secrets. Look for a candidate who is straightforward and trustworthy. They should possess the nerve to tell you when things are bad, so you can prepare for the worst. A good bookkeeper does not say what you want to hear, but reveals what is true. 

Proficient at cutting-edge Software/Technology

Latest bookkeeping software can increase efficiency and productivity for your business. A bookkeeper who knows how to make use of cutting-edge technology will add value to your business by eliminating or speeding up mundane tasks. Allow candidates to pitch these tools and judge their expertise accordingly. 

Flexibility and Accessibility 

If your business structure supports creativity and innovation, your respective bookkeeper should be someone capable of thinking out of the box. Whether you operate at odd hours or defy conventional working norms, flexibility and accessibility are the key qualities to seek in a potential bookkeeper. These characteristics are increasingly important if you manage a company that outsources bookkeeping services.