How to get bookkeeping clients: 20 proven strategies

Growing a bookkeeping business is an exciting journey filled with opportunities. Yet, the challenge lies in figuring out how to get bookkeeping clients who truly value the expertise you bring to the table. 

As a bookkeeper, you’re not just offering a service — you’re providing peace of mind, financial clarity, and valuable insights to businesses. The question is: how can you effectively communicate your value to potential clients and stand out in a competitive market?

We know getting new clients is challenging,  that’s why we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide with 20 proven strategies to help you navigate this challenge.

20 ways to attract new bookkeeping clients

1. Build a website
2. Get listed on Google
3. Encourage reviews
4. Build a social media presence
5. Create blogs
6. Develop educational content
7. Implement email marketing
8. Use online platforms for client acquisition
9. Gain certifications
10. Network effectively
11. Join professional associations
12. Network with local business groups
13. Distribute business cards
14. Provide free value
15. Create a referral program
16. Offer subcontracting
17. Trade referrals with CPAs and other professionals
18. Develop a niche
19. Streamline client onboarding
20. Offer package deals

1. Build a website

Your website is often the first point of contact for potential bookkeeping clients, so it’s crucial to make a strong impression. Begin with a domain name that accurately represents your business. If you’re having trouble choosing, we’ve compiled a list of over 500 suggestions and best practices to assist you.

Select a user-friendly website builder such as WordPress, Wix, or Squarespace. Ensure your site is mobile-friendly and features a clean, professional design. Include essential pages — Home, About, Services, and Contact.

To streamline this process, consider using TaxDome's website builder, which offers over 200 templates specifically designed for accounting, tax, and bookkeeping businesses.

2. Get listed on Google

Boost your local visibility and attract nearby clients with a Google Business Profile. Start by creating a listing with accurate business information, including your name, address, phone number, and website. Select relevant business categories and add high-quality photos to make your listing stand out.

Optimize your listing by writing a compelling business description that showcases what sets you apart. Post updates and special offers regularly to keep your profile active.

3. Encourage reviews

Positive reviews are powerful tools for building credibility and getting bookkeeping clients. Proactively ask satisfied clients to leave reviews on platforms like Google. Once received, showcase these testimonials on your website and social media profiles.

To maximize your review-gathering efforts:

• Make direct requests: send polite requests via email or during client interactions
• Simplify the process: provide direct links to your review pages
• Follow up: send gentle reminders to clients who haven’t left a review
• Consider incentives: offer small rewards or discounts for clients who provide reviews

4. Build a social media presence

Harness the power of social media to reach more people and forge meaningful connections with potential customers. Here’s your roadmap on how to find bookkeeping clients online:

• Identify key platforms. Determine where your potential clients are most active. LinkedIn and Facebook are popular among bookkeepers due to their professional communities.
• Set up profiles. Fill out all the details, add a professional photo, and invite existing clients to like your page.
  
• Share content. Post valuable content, such as tips and articles, to engage your audience and showcase your expertise.
• Engage in groups. Join bookkeeping and accounting groups to participate in discussions and connect with potential clients.
• Interact with the audience. Respond to comments and messages promptly to foster engagement.
• Analyze and refine. Analyze engagement metrics to refine your content strategy, focusing on what resonates most with your audience.
• Use paid ads. Consider using paid ads to attract more clients. Test different ad formats and targeting options to find what works best for your business.

For in-depth guides on leveraging social media for your business, you can refer to LinkedIn's Marketing Solutions and Facebook Business Help.

5. Create blogs

Blogging is not just about sharing knowledge; it’s a strategic way to get bookkeeping clients by positioning yourself as an expert. Focus on creating valuable content that’s relevant to your audience and implement SEO techniques to improve search engine rankings. Want to expand your reach even further? Try guest posting on reputable sites to drive more traffic.

Extend the reach of your blogs by reposting them on LinkedIn Articles. Inform your audience about your latest blog posts on other social media channels to increase engagement and drive traffic to your website.

6. Develop educational content

Utilize engagement analytics to identify topics that resonate most with your clients. Transform your blog content into valuable educational materials such as e-books, guides, or whitepapers. 

To grow your mailing list, offer these resources on your website in exchange for email registrations. Additionally, create a resource library on your website to encourage repeat visits and establish your authority in the field.

7. Embrace email marketing

As your email list grows, email marketing becomes a powerful tool for client acquisition. Craft targeted campaigns that showcase your expertise and services. For example, send newsletters with industry insights, tips, and special offers.

Implement automated welcome emails to introduce your services to new subscribers. Develop follow-up sequences to nurture leads, guiding them from initial awareness to becoming loyal clients. For example, TaxDome’s workflow feature allows you to create dependencies, such as automatically sending a welcome email when a client signs up for the client portal.

8. Use online platforms for client acquisition

Leverage various online platforms to find bookkeeping clients and showcase your services. Here are some key platforms to consider:

• QuickBooks ProAdvisor: get certified and listed to connect with businesses seeking professional bookkeeping and accounting services
• Upwork: bid on freelance bookkeeping projects by creating a strong profile and applying for relevant jobs
• Freelancer: similar to Upwork, bid on various freelance projects and highlight your bookkeeping expertise
• Thumbtack: list your services on this local marketplace to receive requests from nearby clients

Additionally, you can get listed among the best accounting and financial firms in the TaxDome Advisor Directory, a marketplace connecting clients with top firms and practitioners. Visit our TaxDome Advisors page to learn more.

9. Gain certifications

Obtaining bookkeeping certifications can significantly boost your credibility. QuickBooks certification, for example, not only allows you to join their platform but also showcases your proficiency with this widely-used accounting software.

Key certifications to consider:

• Certified Bookkeeper (CB): offered by the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB), covering essential bookkeeping skills
• Certified Public Bookkeeper (CPB): provided by the National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers (NACPB), focusing on practical bookkeeping and payroll skills

Additionally, we’ve compiled a list of the top 9 free online bookkeeping courses with certificates in 2024, so consider checking it out.

10. Network effectively

Networking is a vital strategy for growing your bookkeeping business. Attend local community events, business workshops, and seminars to meet potential clients and introduce your services. Utilize platforms such as Eventbrite or Meetup to discover relevant events. Follow up with new contacts on LinkedIn or via email after initial meetings to maintain connections.

11. Join professional associations

Joining professional associations can enhance your credibility and provide valuable networking opportunities. These organizations often offer resources, training, and industry insights to help you stay current in your field. Consider joining:

• American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB) offers certification and resources for professional development
• National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers (NACPB) provides certification, training, and support for public bookkeepers
• American Institute of CPAs (AICPA), while primarily for CPAs, offers valuable resources for bookkeepers as well

12. Network with local business groups

Consider joining Business Network International (BNI) groups to grow your bookkeeping business. Participating in a local chapter can connect you with business owners who may need bookkeeping services or can refer clients to you.

These organizations also often host events and meetings where you can build relationships and establish your presence in the community.

13. Distribute business cards

A well-designed business card can leave a lasting impression and enhance your professional image. Here are some tips:

• Keep it simple: include only essential information such as your name, title, company, contact details, and a brief tagline or service description
• Use high-quality materials: opt for a sturdy cardstock and a professional finish to make your card stand out
• Include your logo: ensure your company logo is prominently displayed to enhance brand recognition
• Choose readable fonts: select a clean, easy-to-read font and avoid clutter
• Design uniquely: consider a distinctive design to make your card memorable

Always have business cards on hand to distribute when meeting potential clients or networking with other professionals.

14. Provide free value

Attract new clients by offering free consultations, workshops, and webinars. By providing valuable insights at no cost, you build trust and increase the likelihood of converting prospects into paying clients.

Free consultations allow you to understand clients’ needs and demonstrate how your services can help them. Workshops and webinars can cover relevant topics, such as bookkeeping basics or financial planning, positioning you as a knowledgeable resource.

15. Create a referral program

Leverage your current satisfied clients to expand your client base and create a community of advocates for your services. Implement a referral program to encourage existing clients to refer new customers. Consider these strategies:

• Offer rewards: provide discounts on future services or gift cards for successful referrals
• Communicate clearly: promote the program through your website, newsletters, and social media
• Simplify the process: make it easy for clients to refer others by providing clear instructions and straightforward forms

16. Offer subcontracting

Collaborate with other bookkeepers who need to offload some of their work. This approach allows you to assist other professionals during their busy periods and gain experience in different aspects of bookkeeping. It not only helps build professional relationships but also provides a steady stream of projects.

This collaboration can lead to long-term partnerships, further expanding your network and client base.

17. Trade referrals with CPAs and other professionals

Establish mutually beneficial relationships with CPAs, financial advisors, and other professionals who offer complementary services. By trading referrals, you can tap into each other’s client bases and expand your business network effectively. To implement this strategy:

• Identify synergistic partners: seek out CPAs, financial advisors, and other professionals who offer complementary services to yours
• Formalize the agreement: draft a referral agreement outlining the expectations, benefits, and responsibilities for both parties; ensure it’s clear how referrals will be tracked and acknowledged
• Educate your partners: provide your partners with the necessary information about your services so they can confidently refer clients to you
• Regularly review the partnership: meet periodically to discuss the effectiveness of the referral arrangement and make necessary adjustments

18. Develop a niche

Identify an industry or client type that aligns with your expertise and interests to differentiate your bookkeeping business. Specializing allows you to tailor your services and marketing efforts to meet the unique needs of that niche, positioning you as an expert.

Whether it’s real estate, healthcare, or small businesses, deep knowledge in a particular area can attract clients seeking specialized skills. This targeted approach enhances your credibility and fosters stronger client relationships.

19. Streamline client onboarding

Optimizing your client onboarding process is crucial for creating a positive first impression and ensuring a smooth transition for new clients. An efficient onboarding process increases the likelihood of client referrals and frees up time for client acquisition.

Digital tools can help automate administrative tasks. For example, TaxDome allows you to automate various steps of your onboarding process, including client sign-up from your website.

20. Offer package deals

Attract new clients by offering package deals that provide comprehensive services at a discounted rate. Bundle your most popular services into packages that address common client needs. For example:

• Basic Package: essential bookkeeping services
• Standard Package: bookkeeping and tax preparation
• Premium Package: bookkeeping, tax preparation, and financial planning

Clearly outline the benefits and savings of these packages on your website and in your marketing materials. 

To sum up

Implementing these 20 strategies can significantly boost your client acquisition efforts and help grow your bookkeeping business. Remember, attracting new clients is an ongoing process that requires patience, persistence, and adaptability. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different approaches to find what works best for your unique situation.

Keep refining your approach, showcasing your expertise, and delivering exceptional value to your clients. With dedication and the right strategies, you’ll be well on your way to building the thriving bookkeeping practice you envision.