Just need some advise please. I had a phonecall yesterday from a hotel manager who wanted to arrange a meeting for possible book-keeping work. When she phoned she said that she was the manger of the hotel on behalf of a well known bank. I have arranged to meet up, but I am a bit concerned why she said on behalf of a bank. Does this mean they are in liquidation? I have been caught by a Ltd Co in the past who went into receivership. Why else would he say on behalf of a bank?
If she was phoning why did she not give the name of the bank.
If she's the manager why did she mention the bank at all?
If it's a representative of the banks why did they come to you?
Banks have their own accountants and lists of affiliated firms. They don't go to bookkeepers themselves although the affiliated accountancy practices might.
Something stinks about this one. Be careful.
Make sure someone knows exactly where you are or preferably take someone with you. Make sure that you meet them at the hotel that you are going to be doing the bookkeeping for and that you go into the office rather than sitting in the foyer.
Just generally be careful as your right that something does not seem completely right about this situation.
Shaun.
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Shaun
Responses are not meant as a substitute for professional advice. Answers are intended as outline only the advice of a qualified professional with access to all relevant information should be sought before acting on any response given.
Did she give you her name and telephone number? Why not call to confirm the appointment and see how it is answered or get someone to call them and just put the phone down. Could be a perfectly reasonable explanation but something seems odd. Could they have said their bank suggested they get a bookkeeper?
If they are in receivership, your money would be guaranteed if you were appointed by the receiver but like Shaun says, they would have their own people on £75 per hour for bookkeeping!
Shaun she did say a name of the bank just thought wouldn't post it on the forum.
I did phone the hotel, as the manager left a message on my phone. I am familair with this hotel & yes, the meeting is at the hotel. I am very careful about meetings. Have got name and phone number, when I called back all seemed fine. Should of really queried at the time. I think I will go to the meeting, but I will find out a lot more detail and get answers.
I will keep you posted. If nothing comes of it, it is all experience isn't it!
I think things are looking a little brighter in the book-keeping world. Have been busy recently. I was hoping to have a little breather before the end of the tax year mayhem but dosn't look like thats going to happen. Can't complain!
