Finding Bookkeeping Clients for Your Small Business
Starting your own small bookkeeping business can be an exciting and rewarding endeavor. However, one of the biggest challenges is finding those initial clients to get your business off the ground. Landing that first client can seem daunting when you don’t yet have an established reputation or referral network to leverage.
The good news is that with some effort and creativity, there are plenty of effective approaches to connect with potential bookkeeping clients. Here are 10 key strategies:
- Network In-Person Attend local chamber of commerce events, small business meetups, or accounting association meetings to introduce yourself to business owners. Be ready to briefly pitch your services and have business cards ready to hand out. Following up promptly with any promising leads is critical.
- Get Listed on Online Marketplaces Sites like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer allow you to create a profile showcasing your bookkeeping skills. Business owners browse these sites actively looking to outsource projects. The key is crafting an appealing profile and offer so you stand out from the competition.
- Run Targeted Online Ads
Facebook, LinkedIn, and Google Ads can be leveraged to get your services in front of local business owners more likely to need a bookkeeper. Target by location, industry, company size or business type to make your spend more effective. Use tracking links on the ads to see which platforms drive the most inquiries. - Create Free Tools & Resources Develop tools like bookkeeping checklist templates, expense report spreadsheets, or “how to” articles on basic accounting best practices. Offer them for free on your website or LinkedIn in exchange for contact info. Follow up with those who opt-in to see if they need further help.
- Tap Into Your Existing Contacts Don’t underestimate asking colleagues, friends and family if they know any small business owners who handle their own books. Offer them a discount or referral fee for any client referrals that convert to business.
- Volunteer Your Expertise Non-profit organizations like churches, schools, or business incubators often need bookkeeping help but have limited budgets. Volunteering your time pro bono is a great way to demonstrate your skills and potentially land paid gigs.
- Network with CPAs
Reach out to local CPAs to introduce your services and ask if they need an outsourced bookkeeper to handle any overflow clients. Position yourself as an extension of their team that they can trust. - Teach a Community Class
If you have some teaching experience, consider pitching an intro bookkeeping class to your local library, community college or community center. It’s a credible way to showcase your expertise while prospecting for clients. - Guest Blog for Related Sites Approach blogs read by your target customers and offer to write an expert guest post. This raises awareness for your personal brand and services. In return, request they include a brief bio with link back to your website.
- Join Relevant Associations Look for professional groups like the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers that provide directories and job boards where you can list your services. Being involved also boosts your professional credibility.
The most effective approach is likely combining several of these outreach methods to maximize your reach. Don’t get discouraged if it takes consistency and follow up to land those first few clients. As your client roster and reviews grow, you’ll be able to leverage referrals and word-of-mouth momentum more and more. Be patient, persistent and creative, and you’ll be well on your way to building a thriving bookkeeping business.