Embracing Independence: A Journey into Freelance Bookkeeping

After nearly two decades of honing her skills in the world of Accounting and Bookkeeping, my wife is on the verge of launching her own freelance Bookkeeping business. Having worked across various complexities of the industry—as a staff accountant managing payroll for over 800 employees at a major cable company, and as an office manager for a real estate developer, among other roles—she possesses a wealth of experience that positions her well for this new venture.

With a strong foundation in QuickBooks and a commitment to excellence emphasized by completing all available certifications, she’s well-prepared for this transition. Her website is nearly finalized, and with a polished engagement letter and updated resume in hand, she is excited to begin reaching out to potential clients.

Her decision to focus on smaller, mid-sized, or emerging businesses reflects her intent to provide a cost-effective alternative for those who need professional Bookkeeping services without the complications of tax preparation. While she does not provide tax services and is not a CPA or EA, she excels at streamlining Accounting processes—cleaning up messy financial records, creating profit and loss statements, managing balance sheets, and identifying areas for cost reduction. Moreover, she is keen on integrating automation to make her services even more efficient and impactful for her clients.

Our first strategy involves connecting with local CPA firms, an approach we believe could lead to valuable collaborations. However, we are keen to ensure that our initial outreach makes the best possible impression.

Here are a few strategies we’re considering to initiate contact with these firms:

1. Direct Email Outreach: Crafting a professional email that highlights her background, skills, and the unique value she brings could pave the way for future discussions.

2. Phone Calls: A more personal touch might be effective in establishing rapport. A well-prepared phone call could serve as an opportunity to introduce her services and explore potential synergies.

3. In-Person Visits: Walking into a firm with a smile and a brief introduction could leave a lasting impression, especially if she is prepared with business cards and a concise pitch about her services.

We are eager to hear from experienced professionals in the freelance bookkeeping realm. What strategies have you employed to pen that impactful first outreach? Additionally, any insights on other effective methods to attract clients and build a thriving bookkeeping business would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you for your input as we embark on this exciting journey!