How to Hire a Bookkeeper

Bookkeepers are employees who manage your business finances by keeping up with payments, invoices, payroll, revenue and the like. Professional bookkeepers are also respected managers; therefore, hire intelligent and experienced bookkeepers who can save you time and money.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Look for a person with a college degree, preferably a bachelors or higher, in business management, finance, accounting or something along those areas of study. You may find that someone with an associate's degree and a considerable amount of experience will be qualified as well.

2. Review the person's experience as a bookkeeper and check his or her professional work history to verify what is included on the resume is legitimate.

3. Discuss her specific skills with regard to computer programs, understanding reporting requirements, handling demanding periods such as during tax time or when completing payroll. Be sure the person can meet all of the requirements for the position and can handle additional responsibilities as the company's needs grow.

4. Assess the interpersonal and communication skills, ability to multitask and withstand pressure, working with others and serving as a contributing member of a team. If you suspect his personality or character is a good fit, then allow other employees to interview this person and give you feedback.

5. Consider requiring an assessment exam to test capabilities. Several versions of bookkeeping hiring exams are available online and with accounting industry associations.

6. Check personal references and ask for other references from the people you speak with so you can hear additional feedback. Ask about work performance, time management skills, situations of success or failure, strengths, weaknesses and other pertinent questions.

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