Hiring the right bookkeeper can make all the difference in the way your business runs. If you are a startup, an expanding business or someone just fed up with financial blunder, understanding what skills to look for is essential. So frequently, we hear business owners ask us at The Fino Partners- "How do I tell if an individual is good at bookkeeping?"
If you are employing a bookkeeper expert, the following are the 12 most essential bookkeeping skills and the way to assess each one prior to hiring.
Top 12 Bookkeeping Skills and How to Assess Them
Below are the 12 crucial bookkeeping skills to look for in a bookkeeper:
1. Attention to Detail
Bookkeeping entails entering numbers, classifying expenditures and monitoring every dollar. A small mistake can cause tax problems or incorrect financial reports.
How to assess:
Ask candidates how they spot data entry mistakes. You can even send them a sample report containing a deliberate error and find out if they notice.
2. Basic Accounting Knowledge
A bookkeeper need not be a CPA but must understand basic accounting principles including debits and credits, accrual vs cash accounting and general ledger structure.
How to assess:
Ask them to describe in layman terms precisely what a balance sheet is when compared with an income statement. They should respond confidently and clearly.
3. Popular Accounting Software
From QuickBooks Online to Xero to FreshBooks, contemporary bookkeepers should know the platforms.
How to assess:
Ask what software they use. Better, have them show you how they would reconcile a bank statement using the tool you utilize for your business.
Bookkeepers in The Fino Partners keep up with the newest software so our clients run more smoothly.
4. Organization Skills
Bookkeepers handle several reports, receipts and tasks. They must organize financial records so they can be accessed whenever required.
How to assess:
Ask them how they organize digital files. Do they use folders by month? Do they keep copies of all receipts? A detailed answer indicates they're organized.
5. Communication Skills
An excellent bookkeeper does more than crunch numbers, they describe what is happening with your business finances. You want somebody who will explain reports in simple language.
How to assess:
Ask them to describe to a business proprietor an unexpected drop in profit. Are they patient? Do they avoid confusing jargon?
6. Knowledge of Tax Basics
Bookkeepers do not file taxes but should know which transactions are deductible and how to prepare precise tax reports.
How to assess:
Ask them about common deductions for your industry. Ask if you work in retail and what expenses are deductible.
It helps to hire a bookkeeper specialist through The Fino Partners so you understand what counts on tax day.
7. Trustworthiness
Bookkeepers handle sensitive financial information. Trust and ethics aren't negotiable.
How to assess:
Ask for references and look for a bonded or background-checked individual. If they will not share client testimonials or references, raise your hands.
8. Problem-Solving Skills
Sometimes numbers don't match. An excellent bookkeeper will troubleshoot until they discover the issue.
How to assess:
Give them this scenario, Your income report contradicts your bank deposits. What would you do?. Listen for logical steps like verifying deposits, rechecking entries and reconciling statements.
9. Time Management
Bookkeepers might perform repetitive tasks such as weekly payroll or monthly reconciliation. They must meet deadlines consistently.
How to assess:
Ask how they handle repeated tasks and keep nothing in the cracks. Bonus points if they mention using task management programs like Trello or Asana.
10. Adaptability
Your business might grow, change industries or implement new systems. You need an adaptable bookkeeper.
How to assess:
Ask when they had to learn a brand new software or adjust to a brand new client business model. Their answer should be flexible.
At The Fino Partners we hire bookkeepers who keep up and stay ahead.
11. Confidentiality
Bookkeepers might get access to your bank accounts and employee pay and business financials. They must keep that info private.
How to assess:
Ask how they safeguard confidential information. They should mention encryption, password protected files and secure cloud storage systems.
12. Analytical Thinking
Bookkeepers see patterns, spot anomalies and warn you early about cash flow issues or even overspending.
How to assess:
Ask them to review a sample report and point out what sticks out. A good bookkeeper will spot trends or unusual increases in spending quickly.
Things to Ask Before Hiring A Bookkeeper
Prepared to hire a bookkeeper? Here's a quick interview checklist:
- What accounting software do you know best?
- How do you organize financial records and receipts?
- Did you work for businesses like mine?
- How can you reconcile monthly statements?
- Can you give client references?
- How can you protect data?
Helpful Links
- Hiring a Bookkeeper: What to Expect and What to Avoid
- How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Bookkeeper in the USA?
- 5 Signs Your Business Needs Professional Bookkeeping Support
At The Fino Partners, we walk clients through this process, so you know who is managing your books.
Bookkeeping might be a background task, but it is one of the most essential functions in any company. If you are hiring a bookkeeper or searching for a bookkeeper specialist, remember to hire by skills not by availability.
These twelve bookkeeping skills along with the right assessment techniques can help you hire right. So, whether you are overwhelmed with receipts, need assistance with payroll or just want accurate accounts each month, the proper bookkeeper can make your financial life simpler.
We help U.S businesses employ bookkeeper specialists that add value to your team at The Fino Partners. Prepared to simplify your finances and regain peace of mind? Reach out to us today. You deserve a partner who keeps your books clean and your business going ahead.
