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Starting a bookkeeping business? Looking for your first bookkeeping clients? This part can feel a little awkward. You’ve set up your shiny new bookkeeping business, you’ve got your software ready, maybe even a logo you’re way too proud of… and now you need people to pay you for your skills. It’s not about dropping thousands on ads or renting a billboard on Main Street. It’s about making smart, simple moves that build trust, show off your value, and get people talking.
Start with your inner circle
Yes, family, friends, your old coworkers, your neighbour who runs a bakery. These people already know and (hopefully) like you. Don’t be shy about letting them know you’re open for business. A text, email, or quick coffee chat can open doors.
According to Nielsen, 92% of people trust recommendations from friends and family more than any other form of advertising. That’s a huge opportunity sitting right in your contact list. Even if they don’t need a bookkeeper, they might know someone who does. The first handful of clients often come from surprising places. Don’t underestimate Aunt Linda’s networking skills.
Partner with other local businesses
When starting a bookkeeping business, one of the smartest moves you can make is partnering with other local professionals who serve small businesses like tax preparers, CPAs, financial advisors, small business attorneys, even virtual assistants. They often work with clients who desperately need reliable bookkeeping but haven’t found the right person yet.
Reach out, introduce yourself, and suggest a referral partnership. You send clients their way, and they send them back to you. It’s networking, but without the uncomfortable small talk about the weather.
Show up where small business owners hang out
Find your people! Join your local chamber of commerce, attend community business events, or participate in Facebook groups and LinkedIn communities for entrepreneurs. Don’t jump in guns blazing with a sales pitch. Be helpful first. Answer questions, share insights, and gently let people know what you do. You’d be surprised how many people drop a “Hey, I need a bookkeeper” in a casual conversation when the trust is there.
Create clear, irresistible service packages
People hate financial guesswork. New clients want to know what they’re getting and exactly what it’ll cost. Make it easy with simple, tiered service packages. For example:
- Basic: Bank reconciliations and expense tracking
- Standard: Add payroll support and financial statements
- Premium: Include budgeting help, cash flow management, and client-friendly features like fast, secure digital payments
This is where smart payment tools like Forwardly can be helpful. If you can offer clients instant payments and real-time cash flow visibility, you instantly become more valuable, and it’s a huge selling point.
Ask for referrals like it’s your job
Because, in the early days, it kind of is. When you land a client, do great work, and then ask them to spread the word. According to a study by Texas Tech, 83% of satisfied customers are willing to refer others, but only 29% actually do. They just need a reminder. Send a friendly follow-up asking for referrals or offer a small thank-you gift, like a coffee card or discount on next month’s services.
Show off your value with numbers
Small business owners love numbers (they just don’t always love tracking them). Show potential clients how you save them time and money. Keep track of how many hours you’ve saved your clients or how you’ve helped improve their cash flow.
For example, being able to tell a client, “We cut your payment processing time by 48 hours using Forwardly’s instant bank transfers” is far more convincing than a vague promise to “help streamline your finances.” Numbers don’t lie and neither should your pitch.
Also read: Building a Strong Financial Foundation: Best Practices for Bookkeeping Firms
Get your Google presence in order
When people need a local bookkeeper, guess what they do? Yep, they Google it. That’s why setting up your Google Business Profile is a must. Upload a clear description, your services, your contact info, and some good-looking photos (yes, even if it’s just your desk).
Ask your first clients for reviews and don’t be shy about following up. According to BrightLocal’s 2023 report, 87% of consumers read online reviews for local businesses, and positive reviews can seriously boost your visibility.
Getting those first few clients when starting a bookkeeping business isn’t just about luck but more about showing up, offering value, and building real relationships. You need to make it easy for people to trust you with their financial records, knowing you’ll treat their business like your own. Modern payment tools like Forwardly can add that extra polish, making your services not just necessary but irresistible. Stay consistent, be helpful, and remember: in bookkeeping, your reputation is your biggest asset.
