How To Find a Bookkeeper or CFO
Six Steps For Finding a Great Part-Time Bookkeeper or CFO
1) Choose a person who is experienced, professional, trustworthy, and fully vetted.
Make sure that you (or someone) has interviewed thoroughly, skill-tested, and background checked the person you choose. This person will be handling your money. Make sure they are worthy of that honor and responsibility. This is not a position you should simply trust a gut feeling on.
2) Choose a person who can adapt to your changing needs.
If he or she has a full stable of clients, will they be around for a special project? What if your business grows to need more time? Will he or she be able to work expanded hours?
3) Choose a person that you trust is charging a fair and timely rate for their services.
Qualified bookkeepers can range from $30 to $65 per hour. CFOs/controllers can range from $75 to $350 per hour. Either end of the scale should generally be avoided. Be wary of someone charging too little – they may expand the job to fit a required paycheck.
It is also going to take time and money to get your books set up to start with. Expect to spend anywhere from $300 to $1,000 for most small businesses. You then pay an hourly fee on a monthly basis and after a few months will be able to predict what the regular cost will be in your cash flow.
4) Choose a person who will give you the level of involvement in your business you want.
Do you want a relationship with someone who has opinions about how you are running your business or someone who just makes the entries and gives you the reports?
5) Choose a person whose personality complements yours.
You are not paying them to make you feel like a bad child! You must feel comfortable with them AND be absolutely sure they do not talk about your business to others.
6) Be watchful the first several weeks
How much time are they spending? Are they asking the right questions? Have you learned anything you didn’t know before?
One of the best ways to gain a macro view of your business is through SG&A Reporting.
If you’re looking for a trustworthy bookkeeper or accountant, contact us today to learn how OWL can help you.
Learn More About How OWL Can Help You
Bookkeeping
Whether you need help with accounts payable, payroll or your monthly close, our accountants ensure these critical tasks are completed accurately and on time so that you have no business disruptions.
Accounting
When your books are up to date, you can respond to opportunities and challenges quickly. Accurate, bank-ready financials allow you to make better decisions for your company.
Financial Planning
Gain access to powerful insight typically only available to companies that employ a full-time controller or CFO. Leverage their expertise when you need it, without adding to your payroll.
Freedom to Focus on Your Business
Our Partner Organizations →
Get the Full View of Your Business Financials
Just like an owl can turn their head 270 degrees to see the whole landscape, Owl Bookkeeping and CFO Services can help you see your full financial picture.
Call us today: (612) 816-6007
