Launching a Freelance Bookkeeping Business: Tips for Success

Exciting changes are on the horizon for my wife, who is preparing to transition from employee to entrepreneur in the world of Bookkeeping. After honing her skills in various Accounting roles for nearly two decades, she has amassed substantial experience. Her background includes positions such as staff accountant and supervisor of accounting—where she managed payroll for over 800 employees at a cable company—as well as serving as an office manager and bookkeeper for real estate developers, construction firms, and automotive businesses. With such a diverse skill set, she is well-equipped to carve out her niche in the freelance Bookkeeping landscape.

Currently, she is finalizing her website, completing certifications in QuickBooks, updating her resume, and crafting an engagement letter to establish her credentials with potential clients. Although her focus will not include tax services—since she is not a CPA or an enrolled agent—she aims to provide affordable bookkeeping solutions for small to mid-sized businesses and startups. Her expertise allows her to efficiently manage financial statements, clean up disorganized books, analyze profit and loss statements, and offer valuable cost-cutting suggestions. Plus, she is particularly interested in integrating automation to streamline processes for her clients.

As part of her strategy, she plans to approach local CPA firms, and we seek insights on the best way to initiate these connections. Should she reach out via email, make phone calls, or perhaps even visit in person? Additionally, any hints on making a strong first impression would be greatly appreciated.

We intend to operate on an hourly billing model, but we are also eager to hear other suggestions for attracting clients or general advice for building a successful freelance bookkeeping business. If you have experience in this area or valuable insights to share, your input could be instrumental in her journey as she embarks on this new venture.

Thank you for your help as we take these exciting first steps into the world of freelance bookkeeping!