Think about whether you want an employee or a firm? Bookkeepers often work independently, so they may have several clients at a time. You might choose to hire an independent consultant or a bookkeeping firm. If your business is large enough, you may even hire a full-time employee. There’s no right or wrong approach – it depends on the size and needs of your business.
Make use of your social networks. Use online social networks, especially LinkedIn, Dubizzle and Bayt to find bookkeeping professionals. It’s great if they’ve been recommended by your friends or acquaintances.
Look for experience. Accountants need professional qualifications before they can legally do accounting work. Bookkeeping doesn’t have the same restrictions, but certification is available. It’s also worth checking if they are part of a professional governing body like a bookkeepers association. Look for experience and a substantial number of past clients – preferably ones in the same field of business as you. Talk to some of those clients if you can, as they’ll give you useful information.
Choose the right person. Talk to as many people or firms as you need to. Interview them twice if necessary, and be sure to check their references and qualifications. It’s also important to think about personality and culture fit. Your chosen bookkeeper will be communicating a lot with you and your staff, even if they aren’t employed full-time. It pays to hire someone who works well in your environment. Trust your instincts here, and hire someone who is friendly, helpful, and above all, keen. Don’t always hire the cheapest!
Think about whether you want an employee or a firm? Bookkeepers often work independently, so they may have several clients at a time. You might choose to hire an independent consultant or a bookkeeping firm. If your business is large enough, you may even hire a full-time employee. There’s no right or wrong approach – it depends on the size and needs of your business.
Make use of your social networks. Use online social networks, especially LinkedIn, Dubizzle and Bayt to find bookkeeping professionals. It’s great if they’ve been recommended by your friends or acquaintances.
Look for experience. Accountants need professional qualifications before they can legally do accounting work. Bookkeeping doesn’t have the same restrictions, but certification is available. It’s also worth checking if they are part of a professional governing body like a bookkeepers association. Look for experience and a substantial number of past clients – preferably ones in the same field of business as you. Talk to some of those clients if you can, as they’ll give you useful information.
Choose the right person. Talk to as many people or firms as you need to. Interview them twice if necessary, and be sure to check their references and qualifications. It’s also important to think about personality and culture fit. Your chosen bookkeeper will be communicating a lot with you and your staff, even if they aren’t employed full-time. It pays to hire someone who works well in your environment. Trust your instincts here, and hire someone who is friendly, helpful, and above all, keen. Don’t always hire the cheapest!