How Easy Is It for an Accounting Firm to Hire an Outsourced Bookkeeper?

Do you run an accountancy firm and find it increasingly challenging to manage your clients’ books while also growing your business? You’re not alone! Many accounting firms face this dilemma, and the solution might be simpler than you think: hiring an outsourced bookkeeper.

In this blog, we’ll explore just how easy it is for an accounting firm to hire an outsourced bookkeeper and why it could be a game-changer for your practice.

Why Outsource Your Bookkeeping?

Before diving into the process of hiring outsourced bookkeeping services, let’s first understand why it’s becoming increasingly essential for accounting firms in the UK.

• Increased Client Demand: In recent years, clients have come to expect more from their accountants. Beyond tax filing, they want strategic financial advice and real-time access to their financial data. This places extra pressure on accounting firms to maintain up-to-date books.
• Access to Talent: Where skill shortages have affected over 90% of UK accounting firms, outsourcing provides access to top talent from across the globe.
• Cost-Effective Solution: Hiring and training in-house bookkeepers can be costly and time-consuming. Outsourced bookkeeping can provide cost savings in terms of salaries, benefits, and office space.
• Focus on Core Competencies: By outsourcing routine bookkeeping tasks, your firm can free up valuable time and resources to focus on high-value activities such as tax planning and consulting.

Now that we’ve established why outsourcing is important and why outsourced bookkeepers are in demand, let’s explore how easy it is to bring one on board.

How to Outsource Bookkeeping

Outsourcing bookkeeping may come across as a complex process if you have never outsourced before. But the right service provider can make it a cakewalk for you. Let’s understand the process of hiring outsourced bookkeeping services for your accountancy practice.

Step 1: Chat with an Expert

The first step in hiring an outsourced bookkeeper is to chat with an outsourcing expert. If you are new to the outsourcing process, it may seem daunting. This is where an outsourcing specialist’s expertise can help you.

Set up an in-person virtual meeting with your potential outsourcing partner and discuss your requirements with them in detail. This will help them customise a solution for you.

Step 2: Finalise an Engagement Model

Outsourcing firms often provide multiple engagement models to accommodate accounting firms’ diverse needs. Based on your discussion with the outsourcing expert, the latter will help you choose the right model for your practice.

Consider the following questions when choosing an outsourced bookkeeping engagement model:

• What is the volume of work you handle on an everyday basis?
• Do you need a remote or onshore bookkeeper?
• Do you need just bookkeeping or additional services?

Step 3: Conduct Interviews

Once you’ve finalised an engagement model, it’s time to conduct interviews. This is your chance to gauge your potential bookkeeper’s expertise, communication skills, and compatibility with your firm’s culture. Here are some questions to ask:

• Can you provide references from previous clients?
• What accounting software are you proficient in?
• How do you keep yourself updated with the UK regulatory changes?

Step 4: Define Expectations and Terms

After the interviews, it’s crucial to define expectations and the terms of your outsourcing arrangement clearly. This includes discussing:

• Work hours and availability
• Reporting and communication protocols
• Pricing and payment schedules
• Data security and confidentiality agreements

Having a well-documented agreement in place will help avoid misunderstandings down the road.

Step 5: Onboarding

Once you’ve selected your outsourced bookkeeper, the next step is onboarding. Ensure they are familiar with your firm’s processes and software. Clear communication is essential during this phase to iron out any initial challenges.

Summing Up

In conclusion, hiring an outsourced bookkeeper for your accounting firm is a practical and efficient solution to address the growing demands of your clients. It’s a straightforward process that can be smoothened out by partnering with the right service provider.

The benefits are substantial, including cost savings, access to expertise, increased efficiency, scalability, and improved client service. By outsourcing your bookkeeping, you can position your firm for growth and success while delivering exceptional service to your clients.

So, if you’re looking to simplify your workload and take your accounting firm to the next level, consider the ease and advantages of hiring an outsourced bookkeeper.

How Can QXAS Help?

QXAS, a market leader in outsourcing, provides dedicated outsourced bookkeeping services to accounting firms in the UK. We are a trusted outsourcing provider, having helped 500+ accounting firms scale their operations in the competitive industry.

Hiring an outsourced bookkeeper with us is as easy as chatting with our expert and leaving the rest to us. Our experienced team sets up the entire process with you, facilitates a smooth transition, and is available at all times for email and chat support.

Ready to take your firm to the next level? We’re just a call away. Ring us at +44 208 146 0808 or drop an email at [email protected] to get started.