In Episode 96 of "What the Biz?!," hosts Brigitte Vegter and Dan Proczko tackle a topic nobody tells you about until it's too late: what to ask before hiring a bookkeeper. Moving beyond a simple conversation about price, they provide a list of ten essential questions that will save you time, money, and regret. This episode is a guide to finding a strategic financial partner, not just a data-entry person, who can help you grow your business.

Listeners will discover:

• The crucial difference between a CPA, a bookkeeper, and other financial roles, and why you need to match your business's needs to the right expert.
• Ten questions to ask a potential bookkeeper, from their philosophy and industry experience to how they handle cleanup work and onboard new clients.
• The red flags to watch out for, including partners who gate access to your own financial data.
• How a good bookkeeper can spot a $3,000 billing error and why that level of attention is essential for a growing business.
• Why you should look for a partner who offers a "grow with you" model and has a plan for when you outgrow their services.

In this episode, Brigitte and Dan provide a list of ten essential questions to ask before hiring a bookkeeper, saving you time, money, and regret.

Top 10 Questions:

1. What is your bookkeeping philosophy? Look for someone who is strategic, not just reactive.
2. Do you work with businesses like mine? Industry specialization can lead to better advice.
3. What software do you use? A provider who specializes in one software is often better than one who claims to do it all.
4. What will you need from me each month? Look for a partner who uses streamlined tools to make your life easier.
5. How do you handle corrections or catch-up work? Ask about their process and whether they bill a flat fee or hourly.
6. What happens if I outgrow your services? A good partner should have a plan for your growth.
7. Who will I be working with on your team? Clarify who is accountable and who you'll be communicating with.
8. What does communication look like? Ask about their preferred communication channels and response times.
9. How will I know if my books are correct? Ensure they provide monthly reports and give you on-demand access to your data.
10. What does your onboarding process look like? A clean, streamlined process is a sign of a professional firm.

Red Flags to Watch Out For:

• Saying "don't worry about it" when you ask for clarification.
• Using confusing accounting jargon instead of plain language.
• Gating your access to your own financial reports.
• Ghosting you or having poor communication.

Host Projects & Insights:

• Brigitte's Business: Preparing to launch a new "backwards bookkeeping" program for accountants. She also offers business wellness checks to help owners review their current books.
• Dan's Business: Recently onboarded six new clients and is preparing to speak at a marketing event.
• Personal Insights: The hosts discuss the welcome change in Michigan weather from 85 degrees to 66 and

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Hosts
Daniel Proczko - myPocketMarketing
Brigitte Vegter - Vegter Financial