In the digitally driven business world, it can be easy to assume that you don’t need to use a local bookkeeper. However, a local bookkeeper can be an invaluable resource for your business. This blog post explores why businesses should opt for a local bookkeeper rather than relying on out-of-area bookkeepers or automated solutions.
Local bookkeepers offer a personalised approach that automated systems cannot replicate. They take the time to understand your business's unique financial needs and challenges, tailoring their services accordingly. This approach fosters a stronger client-bookkeeper relationship, leading to more effective financial management.
JRMA take this one step further where required. For example, we collect a Worcester based client’s papers every week. Not only does this short meeting enable us to gather all the relevant information, but it also provides an excellent opportunity for the client to update us on what’s happening within the business so that we can advise them accordingly. Our clients have stated that these regular meetings are far more beneficial to their company than relying on an annual meeting with their accountant after the year-end accounts have been prepared.
If you need to access critical financial data on your business, a local bookkeeper can usually offer quick response times and produce the required documents or information. Being physically present in the same community means they can swiftly address any urgent financial matters, providing you with the information you need when you need it.
There is also an added benefit of dropping off and collecting your books/financial documents more readily if you use a local bookkeeper.
Businesses engaging with their local community often enjoy greater trust and credibility. It can be helpful to your business if your bookkeeper knows what is happening in your area and how this could impact you. Hiring a local bookkeeper supports the local economy and can improve your company's image.
At JRMA, we are very community focused and, where possible, like to support other local businesses and refer clients to other clients when they need their services.
Face-to-face working fosters a more hands-on approach to financial management. Local bookkeepers can work closely with your team, offering in-person training and support. This level of collaboration helps streamline financial processes, ensuring everyone in your organisation is on the same page.
JRMA have an excellent track record of providing training and support to help our clients get to grips with their accounting systems. More details can be found on our Accounts Training and Setup page.
Outsourcing to a local bookkeeper can provide a cost-effective solution to keeping on top of your books and records, with many bookkeepers offering competitive rates compared to full-blown accountancy practices. Moreover, the efficiency gained from having a local expert who understands the nuances of your business can often result in long-term cost savings.
Local bookkeepers are agile and adaptable to the changing needs of your business. They can easily adjust their services to accommodate growth or navigate challenging economic times. This flexibility ensures that your financial management remains dynamic and responsive to the evolving nature of your business. It also takes away the stress and cost of having to employ additional in-house bookkeepers (or terminate their employment) depending on the performance of the business.
Depending on the facilities your bookkeeper offers, there may be additional benefits of using a local bookkeeper. For example, JRMA has a client in Bromsgrove who holds monthly board meetings in our Droitwich office. Not only does this mean the team at JRMA is on hand to contribute to the meetings, but it also gives the Board a quiet meeting room where they can meet without interruption and discuss confidential matters in private.
The benefits of hiring a local bookkeeper are undeniable, from receiving a personalised service to accessing your key bookkeeping contacts when needed. By investing in a local bookkeeper, businesses can not only enhance their financial performance but also contribute to the growth and prosperity of their local community.
If your business is based around the Droitwich area and you would like to learn more about how our bookkeeping service could make a positive difference to you, please contact us on 01905 796512 or email info@jrma.co.uk.
