Outsourcing bookkeeping can be a practical solution for small business owners who want to save time and ensure their financials are handled by professionals. However, it’s important to be aware of potential drawbacks before jumping in. Here are the four biggest cons to outsourcing bookkeeping, along with ways to address them.
One of the main concerns when outsourcing bookkeeping is the fear of losing control over your financials. When someone outside your business manages your books, it can feel like you're disconnected from what's going on.
How to Overcome It:To maintain control, focus on establishing clear communication and transparency with your outsourced bookkeeper. Schedule regular check-ins to review reports, ask questions, and ensure that everything is being handled according to your expectations. Many bookkeeping services offer real-time access to your financial data through cloud-based software, so you can keep tabs on your accounts without being involved in the day-to-day details. This ensures you stay informed and in control while delegating the time-consuming tasks.
Not all outsourced bookkeepers provide the same level of service, and there can be a risk of inconsistency, especially with larger firms handling multiple clients. You may feel like you’re not getting the personalized attention you need, or you might experience delays in communication or reporting.
How to Overcome It:When choosing an outsourced bookkeeping service, look for one that focuses on client relationships and delivers consistent quality. Check reviews and testimonials to assess reliability, and consider smaller firms or freelance bookkeepers who offer more personalized service. You can also establish a service-level agreement (SLA) that outlines the expected turnaround times and service standards to ensure your needs are met on a consistent basis.
Financial management can get complex, and outsourcing can sometimes lead to miscommunication, especially if your bookkeeper is unfamiliar with your business or industry. These misunderstandings can lead to errors or delays in your financial reporting.
How to Overcome It:To avoid miscommunication, make sure your bookkeeper fully understands your business processes from the start. Spend time during onboarding to walk them through any unique aspects of your financial management and clarify expectations. Set up regular meetings or check-ins to review progress and ensure everything is on track. Also, working with a bookkeeper who has experience in your industry can reduce the learning curve and help prevent any miscommunication from occurring in the first place.
One common concern with outsourcing is the potential for hidden costs. Some bookkeeping services charge extra fees for specific reports, consultations, cleanup work, or additional hours spent on complex issues. This can lead to unexpected expenses that blow your budget.
How to Overcome It:The best way to avoid hidden costs is by choosing a flat-fee service. Many bookkeepers offer flat-fee pricing, which gives you a predictable monthly cost for a set package of services. This eliminates the surprise of extra charges and helps you manage your budget more effectively. Before you sign a contract, ask for a detailed breakdown of what’s included in the fee, and clarify any additional costs that could arise. Flat-fee services give you peace of mind, knowing exactly what you're paying for each month, allowing you to plan your finances with confidence.
Outsourcing bookkeeping can help your business stay focused and lean, but it’s important to approach it with a clear understanding of the potential challenges. Whether it’s maintaining control, ensuring consistent service, avoiding miscommunication, or managing costs, each of these concerns can be addressed with proper planning and communication. By choosing the right bookkeeping partner—one that offers transparency, strong communication, and flat-fee pricing—you can gain the benefits of outsourcing while minimizing the risks.
Outsourcing your bookkeeping should make your life easier, not more complicated. Stay engaged, ask questions, and prioritize a service that meets your needs, and you'll find that outsourcing can be a valuable asset to your business as it grows.