Navigating Onsite Bookkeeping Requests: Is Deploying Your Employee the Right Move?
As my Bookkeeping business continues on its growth trajectory—with services delivered entirely online so far—a fresh opportunity on the horizon is prompting some strategic deliberation. A prospective client has expressed interest in having Bookkeeping done directly at their location. This raises a pivotal question: Should I consider assigning one of my employees to work onsite?
For bookkeeping firms accustomed to remote operations, accommodating such a request can be both intriguing and challenging. It’s an opportunity to diversify service offerings and potentially cement a stronger relationship with the client. However, this also demands a thoughtful assessment of logistics, feasibility, and potential impacts on the existing workflow.
Before making a decision, I’m keen to hear from others in the bookkeeping community who may have ventured into offering onsite services. Your experiences and insights could provide invaluable guidance as I contemplate adapting my business model to meet this client’s needs.
One response
Offering on-site Bookkeeping services can be a compelling expansion of your business model, especially as more clients appreciate the personalized service and direct oversight that come with having someone physically present in their office. Here are several insights and practical steps you can consider as you evaluate whether to extend this offering:
Understand the Client’s Needs: First, clearly define the client’s specific needs and expectations. Some clients might require a full-time bookkeeper, while others might only need periodic visits to manage specific tasks or to consult. Understanding their workflow and the reasons they prefer on-site services will help you tailor your offering precisely.
Assess Your Resources: Evaluate your current team to identify who might be suitable for on-site work. This individual should not only have strong Bookkeeping skills but also be adept at communication and client interaction, as they will represent your company on-site. Professionalism and adaptability are key traits here.
Consider Logistics and Geography: Consider the location of the client’s office in relation to your own. Depending on the distance, factors such as travel time, cost, and employee flexibility will play a significant role in whether it is feasible or cost-effective to send an employee on-site.
Implement an On-Site Policy: Develop a comprehensive on-site work policy. This should outline working hours, data security measures, how confidential information will be handled, and any other operational details. Also, consider insurance and liability – ensure your business and employees are covered for on-site work.
Employee Training and Support: Provide appropriate training for your employee. Even experienced bookkeepers might need guidance on how your business expectations manifest differently when operating off-site. Offer ongoing support and possibly a ‘trial period’ where you regularly check in to gather feedback from both the employee and the client.
Consider Technological Needs and Cybersecurity: Determine whether the client will provide the necessary equipment or if your employee should use their own. If your employee uses client systems, ensure they comply with your company’s security standards. Implementing a secure VPN or other cybersecurity measures might be necessary.
Create a Pricing Model: Offering on-site services will likely incur additional costs such as travel expenses, insurance, and perhaps time lost to transit. This should reflect in your pricing structure. Be transparent with the client about these costs to set proper expectations.
Evaluate and Adapt: After you have commenced the on-site service, regularly evaluate how it’s working from both your