Whether you own a startup, a growing business or an established firm, hiring a bookkeeper is a smart decision. Here are 5 qualities that you should look for when hiring a great bookkeeper.

1. A good communicator

Numbers and words are entirely different to understand. Consequently, an excellent bookkeeper is not just good with the numbers but equally skilled in simplifying and explaining them to clients, so they understand.

Also, bookkeepers must be detail-oriented, tech-savvy people while being easily approachable and friendly.

Clients should also be in contact with their bookkeepers regularly. They need to know what is happening with their books. Ideally, clients should meet monthly with their bookkeeper to stay on top of finances.

2. Knowledgeable about bookkeeping, technology, & systems

It is crucial that a bookkeeper be a continuous learner. Technology moves fast. Having the latest updates about laws affecting a client’s business is one of the critical responsibilities of a bookkeeper. They must regularly provide their clients with informative and up-to-date articles about information that is useful to your business.

3. Analytical, problem-solver & well-organized

Above all, a bookkeeper’s primary job is to analyze and present financial information to help their clients reach their goals. This means that bookkeepers must provide well-organized financial reports and demonstrate how this information relates to business.

Clients will appreciate a bookkeeper’s problem-solving skills. Using tools that help to make numbers less confusing should go a long way to make finances understandable.

4. Professional, reliable & trustworthy

Bookkeepers deal with sensitive information about their client’s business and staff. It is essential to hire a bookkeeper who is reliable and trustworthy. You must feel confident that your bookkeeper has security and confidentiality systems in place. These systems include online encryption, passwords, read-only access to information and limited-access.

5. Client-Centered

The bookkeeper you hire must be able to offer customized solutions to address your bookkeeping needs. They should always work to help you achieve your goals. A bookkeeper should become familiar with the complexities of their clients’ business.

Although there are many more qualifications, these 5 qualities to look for in your next bookkeeper are essential.