6 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Virtual Bookkeeper
Hiring a virtual bookkeeper can bring a lot of benefits to your business. But how do you ensure that you hire someone that is best for your business? Let’s find out.
Remote bookkeeping is one of the operational processes of a business in which a virtual bookkeeper systematically records, organizes, and maintains the financial transactions and records of a company from a remote location.
Bookkeeping is one of the core functions of accounting and is necessary for keeping track of a company’s financial health. When you hire a remote or a virtual bookkeeper it means that the bookkeeper won’t be present at your office.
A remote bookkeeper uses digital tools, accounting software and secure online platforms to carry out his bookkeeping tasks. He, just like a bookkeeper at an office, ensures that accurate and up to date financial information is available for business owners to make informed decisions for their firm’s growth and success.
What to Ask A Virtual Bookkeeper?
Following are some important questions to keep in mind before hiring a virtual bookkeeper:
Q1: What Happens to my Data?
Virtual bookkeepers will be managing the valuable and confidential financial transactions of your firm. Thus, it is imperative that business owners have a full understanding of what happens to their data when in the hands of the bookkeepers.
Ensure that the outsourced bookkeeping firm does not have any loopholes which can expose it to potential risks including data theft and cyberattacks. Financial data is highly sensitive, so inquire about the virtual bookkeeper’s approach to data security and confidentiality.
Ask about the security measures they have in place to protect your financial information and how they handle sensitive data, such as bank statements and payroll records.
Q2: What is Your Experience and Qualifications?
Since you will be hiring a virtual bookkeeper who is responsible for managing your company’s records from a remote location it is imperative that you not only consider their skills, education and experience. But also about how your data is going to be kept secure.
Next you can ask about their formal education in accounting or finance, or relevant certifications (e.g., Certified Public Bookkeeper or Certified Bookkeeper), and also the length of time they have worked in the field.
Consider prioritizing candidates who have proven track records in similar industries.
Q3: Do you Have Experience Working in the Same Industry?
Consider prioritizing bookkeepers who have experience within your industry. For example, a food beverage firm should ideally consider hiring bookkeepers who have served extensively within the food industry.
Further inquire about the companies they have worked for i.e., the company’s size, structure and accounting methods. Further, experienced industry bookkeepers may already be proficient in accounting software and traditional bookkeeping methods commonly used in the food and beverage sector. This can save business owners’ time and resources on training and software transition.
Q4: Show me Details of your Past work & Testimonials?
Client testimonials and reviews are one of the best ways of evaluating a firm’s services. You can also ask the virtual bookkeeper for past work samples of their work such as financial reports or reconciliations.
Q5: Tell us About Any Accounting Tools And Software That You are Familiar With?
With the accounting industry evolving, new tools are making it easier for bookkeepers to record transactions accurately and more efficiently.
It is a given that highly-skilled virtual bookkeepers stay updated with their industry trends, tools and software so they will know the workarounds with the best bookkeeping software’s that meet your firm’s needs.
You can also consult an accounting expert and have them interview the bookkeeper you plan on hiring. Popular options include QuickBooks, Xero, or specialized industry-specific software. Proficiency with these tools is crucial for efficient record-keeping and reporting.
Q6: How Often Do You Communicate With Your Clients?
Communication skills and collaboration is highly important in the business world. If you are outsourcing your bookkeeping to a firm that has a bad reputation regarding communication and collaboration, you might have problems delivering the task requirements to them. Or they might not be available at your required time.
To avoid this, consider reputable outsourcing firms and ask about their preferred communication methods, availability, and responsiveness. Discuss how often you’ll meet or exchange information to ensure you’re on the same page regarding financial matters.
Further, have an accounting consultant evaluate their problem-solving skills and ability to adapt to changing financial needs as the business grows. By regularly monitoring their performance, such as their commitment to maintaining an accurate financial record, you can assess if the bookkeeper is better for your firm in the long run.
Ensure Reliable Remote Bookkeeping With Work Accelerated
Are you having a hard time maintaining your books accurately? Are you unsure whether they are compliant with the regulations?
Work Accelerated provides access to a global talent pool of virtual bookkeeping and accounting services. We help prepare and manage your financial statements and records. With us working by your side you can ensure that your books are in reliable hands and focus on your business’s core operations peacefully.
Visit our contact page now and get in touch with us.
The Bottom Line
Quality bookkeeping for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) is crucial for securing the financial wellbeing of your business, ensuring compliance with tax regulations, making informed decisions, and facilitating growth. Read here to learn about the benefits of staff augmentation to US companies.
Hiring a bookkeeper can be an important decision for your business, as they will be managing your company’s financial records, ultimately ensuring the financial health of your company. Regularly reviewing and analyzing your financial data will provide valuable insights that can guide your business decisions and growth strategies.
Thus, bookkeeping plays a pivotal role in maintaining the financial health and success of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs). It is a systematic process that records and maintains financial transactions, enabling business owners to make informed decisions and ensure compliance with tax regulations.
When considering hiring a virtual bookkeeper, several key factors should be taken into account. These include their qualifications, industry expertise, data security measures, proficiency with relevant software, and communication skills.
Additionally, it’s crucial to regularly monitor their performance and adaptability to changing financial needs, ensuring that they remain a valuable asset to your business. Ultimately, quality bookkeeping is an ongoing process that empowers SMEs to thrive and make informed strategic choices.