Author Tanya Hilts, CPB
February 3, 2018
I just read an article where they said the bookkeeper was dead. I completely, 100%, wholeheartedly agree with this statement. Now before you go jumping all over this, the traditional role of a bookkeeper is dead, or will be soon if we don't adapt. Our world is changing, and those that want to survive, must change with it. Change can be scary, but it is also exciting for an industry that has not changed much since the double entry accounting system was initially created.
It is true that there is now software that does what we used to do. Apps are automating much of our work. But that work was in the un-exciting world of data entry. That is not what we actually do. We are just starting to acknowledge the best value we can offer our clients is acting as their trusted advisor. It is the relationship we have with our clients that makes us special. We have always had access to the information to help our clients make those right decisions, however in the past we had access to that information too late.
Nowadays using features like QBO bank feeds to see real time banking data, and apps like Hubdoc and ReceiptBank to have clients submit their receipts to us before they have even left the store, are extremely important to our new roles. Think about it, we now have access to the information as it happens, and advise the client when it could actually make a difference to them. We can consult with our clients to help them solve their pain points as they occur, and make real time changes to their business. This makes us more valuable than ever before.
There is a new world that is rapidly changing and we must embrace it and adapt. Since I adapted, I have found that it has made my role with my clients more satisfying and I have better relationships. I truly enjoy what I do now, compared to what I used to do. Remember, the wind does not break a tree that bends.
Until next time,
About the author: Tanya has earned her Certified Professional Bookkeeper designation through CPB Canada, is an Advanced Certified QuickBooks Online ProAdvisor, and a Member of the Intuit Trainer Writer Network. To Tanya, being a forward-thinking entrepreneur means constantly increasing her own knowledge level and obtaining more certifications, education, and experience in order to not only increase the services and benefits she can offer her clients but to spread that awareness to other members of the accounting community. Tanya's passion for advancing the accounting profession has lead her to regular speaking engagements. Tanya's publically known enthusiasm for the industry has led her to become a current Director of CPB Canada. www.TanyaHilts.com