I am in the process of setting up my own business as a computerised Bookkeeper having become an Associate member of the ICB. I have my own business cards and am awaiting approval for an advert. What I would like to know is when you get that first call from a would be customer where do you plan to meet them in the first instance? In this day and age you cannot be too careful so I just wanted some advice from anyone that is a self employed Bookkeeper please. Also how do you go about conducting that initial meeting? What do you ask them and what do you tell them? I know this sounds rather naive, but when this is something completely new it is all very daunting.
I am also new to bookkeeping and have recently set up as a self employed bookkeeper and am now awaiting a call from my first client (fingers crossed). With regards to safety and meeting a client for the first time, as I work from home, I don't want my clients to meet me here as I don't feel that a, it could be safe and b, I wouldn't look very professional with my dog and two children running around. I am planning to meet my clients in a local cafe or coffee bar, that way I will be safe and in a public place and we can both feel more relaxed while I treat my new client to a cuppa and a nice bun.
I think that the best approach with a client is to be honest with them, I have no experience in the real world about bookkeeping and so would tell any prospective clients about the courses that I have studied and the exams that I have passed rather than tell them that I am more experienced than I am. Focus on your strengths and try not to mention any weaknesses. I am sure that they will be understanding, as business owners themselves, they do realise that everyone has to start somewhere. Also, make sure that you go to the meeting prepared with questions that you want to ask incase your mind goes blank when you get there.
I was a self employed bookkeeper working from home until end November 2008 (became a Limited company with commercial premises beginning of December 2008) I either met potential new clients at their premises or at my home. I always made sure the house was tidy, and most importantly let my husband and other family know I had a meeting with a potential client at ___ time at _____ location and always after meeting finished rang the family I had told about meeting so they knew everything ok safety wise.
Thankyou for the information, it was one question that hadn't crossed my mind, but know you mention it, in this day and age you can never be too careful. I am just about to start on my own, and have been very interested in all of whiskerpanthers entries, good luck!, I am disabled so I will have to be especially careful!!!
Hi everyone, Another important point for new or inexperienced self employed bookkeepers is to make sure that you really know the mlr regulations thoroughly and that you are able to comply with them when dealing with your clients or potential clients. This is an area where self employed bookkeepers can be very vulnerable since the mlr legislation was extended to include bookkeepers. I have recently read in detail the legislation and alot is expected now of bookkeepers in terms of knowing your client, their business transactions, how they operate their business etc., it is no longer just about accurately recording the figures and information you are suppled with. Self emloyed bookkepers are now liable to face prosecution if they don't fully take on these additional responsibilities. Therefore these regulations are now the most important aspect of the self employed bookkeepers role. Sorry for feeling I have to say all of this but it is really to safeguard all self employed bookkeepers, particularly the new ones with very little experience.
Steve does raise a valid point on MLR and it is something you must make sure you comply with.
I wouldn't go so far as saying "these regulations are now the most important aspect of the self employed bookkeepers role". They are simply a requirement you must meet but apart from that they are of little important to your actual role as a bookkeeper.
Are you operating from home? You don't mention this, but I get the impression you are. If so, and guessing you prefer not to have potential clients visiting your home I'd suggest offering to visit them first. Some may prefer to visit you and if that's the case either a cafe lounge or use a serviced office, though that may be pricey.
I'd also say to bear in mind this is a business to business meeting, not an interview... so depending on what they ask and want to know - you are there as a business more than an individual.
