What Is a Virtual Bookkeeper?

A Virtual bookkeeper utilizes cloud-based accounting software to provide you with a quality bookkeeping service remotely from wherever they live. You no longer have to hire an on-site bookkeeper with all the overhead that comes along with it. With cloud-based software, you and your book-keeper can work through your software to tackle your daily bookkeeping tasks. Your bookkeeper can post your financial transactions, review and update your statements, reconcile your accounts, and perform other vital accounting functions without having to meet with you in person.

Virtual Bookkeepers usually work from their home.

As a small business owner there are benefits to using a virtual bookkeeper. A virtual bookkeeper will never cost you what an on-site bookkeeper would. The virtual bookkeeper owns their own business and works as a contractor. They will work as little or as much as you need them to, to provide you with your business needs. For a bookkeeper, working virtually provides them with a work/life balance that allows them to provide you, the business owner a quality service all while still being able to work most of the time from their home.

Virtual bookkeeping is becoming more and more common in the

21st Century. Sometimes, their clients are in different states and never meet in person, this is very common. They communicate by email, phone, video conference calls brings you and your bookkeeper virtually face-to-face, etc. It works!

I know it can be difficult to trust a virtual service with your books, but if you

give it a chance and get to know your bookkeeper through the resources

available, you'll be surprised at the value and personable experience you'll get.

Research your virtual bookkeeper, check out their social media sites, such as Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, etc. View their website, and if they have a blog, read through it, you can learn a lot about who they are, their character and the type of service they provide. Don't be scared to ask questions, after all, you are looking to hire someone to take care of one of your most prized possessions....your business!

When you visit with your virtual bookkeeper prospect, you should get a good vibe and know without a doubt that you have a connection and will be about to work well together. The lines of communication should be open and they should be available to answer any questions you may have in a reasonable amount of time, usually within 24 hours. Ask them about their deliverables, what they will provide you with and a time schedule that you can expect this to be done. It's okay to be picky, if you're not 100% satisfied after you initial consultation, then move on to your next prospect. Don't settle for the first one you find if you don't feel comfortable.