Launching a Freelance Bookkeeping Venture: Seeking Insights from Industry Experts

My wife is on the cusp of a significant career transition, moving away from traditional employment to establish her own freelance Bookkeeping business. With over 15 years of experience in Accounting and Bookkeeping, she has cultivated a robust skill set. Her previous positions range from serving as a staff accountant and supervisor managing payroll for over 800 employees at a prominent cable company to handling bookkeeping and office management for a range of companies, including a real estate developer and a construction firm.

Equipped with extensive knowledge of QuickBooks, she is also in the process of completing various certifications to bolster her credentials. With her website nearing completion, an engagement letter finalized, and her resume updated, she is excited to begin marketing her services to prospective clients.

It’s important to note that she will not be offering tax services and is neither a CPA nor an EA. Her focus is on smaller, mid-sized, and newer businesses, providing them with a cost-effective bookkeeping solution. Her expertise includes streamlining messy financial records, preparing profit and loss statements, balancing sheets, and identifying cost-saving opportunities—all while emphasizing automation.

Our initial strategy involves networking with local CPA firms, and I would appreciate guidance on the best approach to make contact. Should we reach out via email, make a phone call, or perhaps pay them a visit in person? Additionally, I’m open to any advice on creating a memorable first impression and effective marketing techniques to attract clients.

We are considering billing on an hourly basis, and any other suggestions regarding client acquisition or general freelancing best practices would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you for your insights!