how to get clients for a bookkeeping business

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get clients for your bookkeeping business:

✅ 1. Niche Down for Faster Growth

Don’t try to serve everyone. Choose a niche so you can speak directly to your ideal client’s pain points.

Examples:

Freelancers and solopreneurs
E-commerce stores
Coaches and consultants
Real estate investors
Trades and home service providers
Restaurants or cafes

? The more specific your target, the more trust and referrals you’ll build.

? 2. Build a Professional Online Presence

Your online footprint builds trust and attracts leads.

Must-haves:

Simple website with services, pricing range, testimonials, and contact info
Google Business Profile for local searches
LinkedIn profile optimized for “Helping [niche] manage their finances better”
Optional: A blog or resources that answer questions like “Do I need a bookkeeper or accountant?”

? Use platforms like Wix, Squarespace, or WordPress.

? 3. Leverage Local Online Networking

Start building connections in places where business owners hang out.

Online:

Facebook groups for entrepreneurs or your niche (e.g., “Coaches Consultants Hub”)
LinkedIn groups and direct messages
Reddit communities like r/smallbusiness
Answer questions on Quora or X (formerly Twitter)

Offline:

Local business networking events (BNI, Chamber of Commerce)
Coworking spaces
CPA referrals (accountants often don’t do monthly books)

? Offer a free resource or audit in exchange for a conversation.

? 4. Offer a Lead Magnet to Attract Leads

Create a free resource that helps your ideal clients.

Ideas:

“Top 10 Bookkeeping Mistakes Small Businesses Make” (PDF)
“Monthly Bookkeeping Checklist”
Free 15-minute bookkeeping audit
Tax deadline calendar for your country/region

? Use this to collect emails and follow up with value over time.

? 5. Ask for Referrals Early and Often

Even if you’re just starting out, ask your network:

Friends, family, past coworkers
Your accountant or tax professional
Clients in adjacent industries (designers, developers, etc.)

? Add a simple message to your emails:

“If you know any business owners who need help with their books, I’d love an introduction.”

✉️ 6. Send Outreach Emails (Without Being Salesy)

Find small business owners in your target niche and send thoughtful, personalized messages.

Example:

“Hi [Name], I help coaches like you stay tax-ready year-round with simple, affordable bookkeeping. Would you be open to a quick call to see if I can help lighten your load?”

? Focus on helping—not selling.

? 7. Partner with Complementary Service Providers

Team up with people who serve your ideal clients:

Tax preparers and CPAs
Virtual assistants
Business consultants
Web designers (who work with new businesses)

Offer referral incentives or co-market together (webinars, blogs, workshops).

? 8. Use Social Media for Visibility

Pick one or two platforms and post consistently.

Post ideas:

Quick finance tips for small businesses
Myths about bookkeeping
Client success stories (with permission)
Behind-the-scenes of your workflow
Explaining bookkeeping terms simply

? Show up as an expert and helper—not a salesperson.

? 9. Use Testimonials and Social Proof

Even if you only have 1–2 clients, get written or video testimonials.

Ask what changed since they started working with you
Highlight peace of mind, time saved, fewer tax worries

? Add these to your website, email signature, and social media.

? 10. List on Freelance Business Platforms

Start small with listings where business owners are already looking:

Upwork
Fiverr (create packages like “Monthly Bookkeeping for Solopreneurs”)
Bark, Freelancer, or Guru
India: UrbanClap, Sulekha, Justdial (for local clients)

⚠️ Use these as discovery channels, but build long-term relationships off-platform.

? Bonus Tip: Offer a “Starter Package” or Trial Month

Give hesitant clients a chance to try your service.

“Try one month of done-for-you bookkeeping—no commitment. I’ll clean up your books, and if you like the results, we’ll continue.”

? Low-friction offers remove fear and open the door.

? Client-Getting Checklist for Bookkeepers

Strategy	In Progress?
Chose a niche and ideal client	✅
Built a website and Google listing	✅
Posted helpful content online	✅
Reached out via LinkedIn/Facebook	✅
Created a free lead magnet	✅
Asked for referrals	✅
Partnered with CPAs or service pros	✅
Listed on freelance/business platforms	✅
Offered discovery calls or trials	✅
Collected testimonials	✅