What Other Services Can I Provide Beyond Bookkeeping?
Jan 16, 2025Experienced bookkeeping professionals know that balancing the books is just the beginning of what you can offer to your clients. Many bookkeeping businesses differentiate themselves by providing additional services tailored to their expertise or client needs. Expanding your offerings not only helps you stand out but also allows you to position yourself as a trusted advisor. Here are ten ideas that have worked for us which I hope inspire you to grow your bookkeeping practice and become an valued part of your clients’ success stories.
Business Advisory Services
Help your clients take control of their financial future by offering business advisory services. Advisory services can include budgeting, cash flow management, forecasting, and even non-financial insights like business strategy. Specialising in a specific industry or business type—eg startups/ trades—can set you apart. You’ll not only help your clients make better decisions but also build deeper relationships by showing genuine interest in their success.
Virtual CFO (VCFO) Services
With technology enabling remote work, virtual CFO services are in high demand. Offer your clients the benefits of a CFO without the need for a full-time hire. Services like KPI tracking, financial reporting, and strategic decision-making support can position you as an integral part of your clients’ businesses. This is especially valuable for small and medium enterprises looking for executive-level financial guidance on a budget.
Software Implementation and Training
Bookkeepers often become tech advisors for their clients.
In today’s digital world, many businesses rely on specialised tools to manage their business. By offering software advisory, implementation along with training, you can help your clients streamline their processes. Consider mastering industry-specific software to further specialise your offerings.
Business Process Automation
Automating repetitive tasks can save time and money for your clients. Show your clients how to work smarter, not harder, by offering tailored automation solutions. Whether it’s automating payroll, invoicing, or expense tracking, your ability to simplify their processes can be life changing for an exhausted business owner. Don’t forget to market these services on your website and social media to highlight your expertise.
Educational Workshops and Online Courses
Teaching is a natural extension of bookkeeping. Share your knowledge through workshops or online courses on topics like financial literacy, invoicing, or basic bookkeeping for small business owners. Partnering with local councils or hosting your own events can help you reach new audiences and establish your authority in the industry.
Administrative Services
Many business owners need help with administrative tasks like invoicing and debt collection. Expand your services to include administrative tasks that complement your bookkeeping offerings. This creates a comprehensive solution for your clients, saving them time and effort while increasing your revenue streams.
Industry-Specific Solutions
Niche expertise can make your practice stand out.
Specialising in a particular industry—such as creative businesses, medical practices, or e-commerce—allows you to tailor your services to their unique needs. This focus not only boosts your credibility but also allows you to gain efficiencies and become a go-to expert in that field.
Management Reporting
Providing management reports helps business owners make informed decisions.
While not all bookkeepers offer management reporting, it’s an incredibly valuable service. Detailed reports can provide insights into a client’s business performance and help them make strategic decisions. If you’re not already offering this, it’s an excellent add-on service and you probably already have everything you need at your fingertips.
Assistance with Funding and Loan Applications
Customers often need help preparing financials for funding or loan applications. Navigating funding and loan applications can be daunting for business owners. Offering this as an add-on service not only saves your clients time and stress but also positions you as a problem solver they can rely on.
Business Networking and Referral Services
As a bookkeeper, you interact with many professionals across industries.
Leverage your network by creating referral or networking groups for your clients. Acting as a connector not only strengthens your relationships but also positions you as a leader in your community.
There’s no limit to what you can achieve in a bookkeeping business. With a little creativity and a focus on client needs, you can diversify your offerings and grow your practice in exciting ways. I hope this list has inspired you or given you some food for thought. We have put together a course to share ALL OUR SECRETS and more, so if you are a bookkeeper or accountant, we would love you to join us. Starting LIVE in Feb, or will be available as a pre recorded course in April. You can view all the details here or get in touch to find out if it would be suitable for you.