The Bookkeepers' Voice: Recent Episodes
The Savvy Bookkeeper
Get practical lessons, entertaining stories, special guests plus bookkeeping, pricing and marketing specific hints you won’t find anywhere else.
Tune into The Bookkeepers' Voice Podcast every Friday at 10 am AEDT/ST.
Having a voice is about so much more than talking, or even communicating. Having a voice is about being heard, understood, respected and valued.
When Amy started her bookkeeping business in 2015, she found clients difficult and at times abusive, which left her feeling isolated, stressed and questioning her own abilities. After connecting with other bookkeepers, Amy realised that many bookkeepers had the same struggles, experiences and often felt isolated in their business. Whether trying to communicate with a difficult client or set boundaries many felt undervalued and overwhelmed.
When Amy started The Bookkeepers Voice Podcast, she wanted a way for colleagues in the Bookkeeping industry to feel less isolated, more connected and know they were not alone. Through sharing real experiences of what it’s like running a small bookkeeping practice, and teaching of topics of interest, Amy makes you think, laugh and know you’re not alone.
In this episode, Amy tells her story of how she lost her Voice: literally. On 8 December 2022, she was heading to South Gippsland with her two sons and husband Will, to visit her dad for the weekend. But less than 30 mins into the trip, Amy felt unwell and became unable to speak normally (Aphasia). Will called an Ambulance and Amy was taken to hospital to be assessed for a stroke. Instead, she was Diagnosed with functional neurological disorder, a condition where there is a disruption between the brain and a function of the body.
ironically, the disruption occurred between the one function that forms the basis in the foundation for the work Amy most loves to do - speaking, encouraging, telling stories, teaching and training, and giving Bookkeepers running businesses, a voice.
Amy recorded this episode about a week after she came home from hospital, and although she had made a great deal of progress in recovering her voice, but the voice you will hear this episode isnot the one you are used to hearing. Since this episode was recorded, Amy’s voice returned to normal, but has also had to further episodes causing a relapse of Aphasia.
Amy is currently taking some time off work to recover, and to decide on a future direction that will take into consideration, her reduced work capacity. At this stage, the future of the Bookkeepers voice podcast, and The Savvy Bookkeeper is unknown. But we will post an update as soon as possible.
Amy would like to express her gratitude to podcast listeners, and savvy members. You have given Amy a sense of purpose and joy in business. We ask that you would lift Amy and her young family up in prayer, and for healing and protection over Amy’s voice, and for Savvy, a business Amy worked so hard to build. That it would not be wasted or destroyed.
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When you're starting out in business or looking for a job, you may be wondering how to 'get your foot in the door' if you don't have hands on experience. Is gaining a qualification 'just a piece of paper' or will completing a formal qualification increase your chances of finding clients or a job?
Tune into the Bookkeepers' Voice Podcast as Amy Hooke, Bookkeeping business owner and mentor, explains the benefits of study but also how to know when it could be a waste of time.
Key takeaway: Zoom out and have a look at your big picture goals.
Useful links:
- This episode follows on from a previous episode: How To Get Bookkeeping Clients When You Have No Experience
- YouTube video for this episode
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Today on The Bookkeepers' Voice Amy and Maia discuss a very common question bookkeepers struggle with: should I put my prices on my website?
Of course, the short answer is... It depends! But the more detailed answer that this podcast explores includes figuring out why you want to make your prices visible, whether it benefits your client niche or not, and how comfortable you are talking prices during initial consults.
Key takeaway: "Consider your 'why' and the impact on your business before deciding one way or the other"
Useful links:
- Get your pricing sorted with our Pricing for Profit program
- YouTube video for this episode
Related episode - Season 3 Episode 1: Charging for Bookkeeping Health Checks
- Link to podcast episode
- Link to YouTube
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This week on the Bookkeepers' Voice Amy and Maia are answering some FAQs around our Pricing For Profit Program. What is it? What are the benefits? And what is not?
Listen in to find out how the program works and whether it's the right fit for you. We talk about setting financial goals and knowing exactly what you need to get there, making sure your pricing is right for your business, and smoothly transitioning your clients from fixed pricing to packages or to new packages.
Key takeaway: Create a financial picture of your business to lead you towards your goals.
Useful links:
- Pricing for Profit information page and sign up form
- YouTube video for this episode
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In this first episode back after a break Amy and Maia discuss Bookkeeping Health Checks and, more specifically, whether or not you should charge for them.
They get into the nitty gritty of how to bring it up with potential clients that they need to pay for a health check, and talk through the process they use when doing initial consults.
Key takeaway: A health check is a useful document for any business owner to have, whether they end up engaging your services or not.
Useful links:
- Check out our Health Check Masterclass if you want to learn more about offering this service
- YouTube video for this episode
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Hi, I'm Amy Hooke, the founder of The Savvy Bookkeeper, and Business Mentor who helps smart bookkeepers become “business savvy bookkeepers”.
In this podcast series, I'll be telling my ‘bookkeeping business story', and sharing my bookkeeping business vision, beginning with how I originally got started, what went wrong, how I fixed it, and how I transitioned away from being ‘on the tools' to having a profitable online business that runs without me.
During this episode, I'll be telling my story about some of the 'band-aid' solutions I tried using to fix the problems I thought I had.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hi, I'm Amy Hooke, the founder of The Savvy Bookkeeper, and Business Mentor who helps smart bookkeepers become “business savvy bookkeepers”.
In this podcast series, I'll be telling my ‘bookkeeping business story', and sharing my bookkeeping business vision, beginning with how I originally got started, what went wrong, how I fixed it, and how I transitioned away from being ‘on the tools' to having a profitable online business that runs without me.
During this episode I'll be telling my story about why I decided to start working for myself, and how I got my first client.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hi, I'm Amy Hooke, the founder of The Savvy Bookkeeper, and Business Mentor who helps smart bookkeepers become "business savvy bookkeepers".
In this podcast series I'll be telling my 'bookkeeping business story', beginning with how I originally got started, what went wrong, how I fixed it and how I transitioned from 'hands on bookkeeping' to a business that runs without me.
In the beginning, I tried to "grow" my business by trying to fit into other people's dreams and goals. In this series I'll share what sparked my transition away from using other people's ideas of success as a measure my own, and towards building a business which is aligned with my own goals, vision and life purpose.
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In this episode, Amy and Maia talk about why traditional business plans are not relevant to bookkeepers today. We show how a client-centric business plan helps you understand your client's problems better. By following this process, you can attract better clients, better staff and have more profit in your business to reward yourself.
Listen in to learn the following tips on how to Plan for Growing or Starting your Bookkeeping Business: What's included in the Savvy business plan What's included in Bookkeeping Business Foundations eCourse Why our business plan is so different from a traditional business plan How doing business in the right order can save you time, stress and help you earn more
Useful links:
Learn more about Savvy's 6 Step Business Plan and related programs:
thesavvybookkeeper.com/businessplan
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In this insightful episode of The Bookkeepers' Voice, as we take you into the world of lead generation for bookkeeping businesses.
Listen in as we discuss how 'digital research driven’ lead generation processes have recently made it more difficult to create genuine loyalty when it comes to landing new bookkeeping clients.
We'll also be talking all things 'Fickle Leads' which are potential clients who are typically hard to connect with. We'll be discussing everything from how to gain their loyalty and sharing our tips for capturing them successfully.
Key Takeaway: "Learn how to recognise a bookkeeping fickle lead and automate your follow up process."
Useful Links: The Savvy Bookkeeper - DIY Websites The Savvy Membership
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Join us for this brand NEW episode of The Bookkeepers' Voice as we are excited to be interviewing a very special guest, Andrew Hunzicker, who is the founder of DOPE CFO and the CFO College.
For those of you who don’t know, Andrew is a CPA which means that he is an expert in start-ups, CFO services, turnaround and high-growth strategies, capital sourcing, merger and wealth protection.
In this episode, Andrew shares his expertise on start-ups, virtual business and 5 things that he believes make for a good niche concept. Andrew will also be sharing some bookkeeping industry specific tips - so this episode is not to be missed!
Key Takeaway: "Opportunities are out there for bookkeepers to continually niche down and increase their profits."
Useful Links: Andrew Hunzicker - LinkedIn Profile DOPE CFO - Facebook Page DOPE CFO - Instagram DOPE CFO - Twitter DOPE CFO - YouTube DOPE CFO - Website The CFO College - Website
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In this episode of The Bookkeepers' Voice, we wrap up our 'EOFY Throwback Series' which was put together so you can be organised in the lead up to EOFY!
Last week was all about optimisation and how you can automate and streamline the entire workflow process to save you time and Non-Billable Admin headaches..
In this final #throwback episode of our EOFY series, we share 4 types of bookkeeping onboarding templates, why each are so important, where they fit into the process and how they are going to make your life so much easier this EOFY season! From email templates to proposals, to onboarding templates and authority templates – we've covered them all!
If you've ever had any questions about what kinds of templates other bookkeepers use – this is the episode for you!
Key takeaway: “When you have templates and a good system, your Onboarding Process is going to be effortless!"
Useful links:
Email Templates: New Client On-boarding (Company) New Client On-boarding (Sole Trader) Accountant Introduction Reminder Receipt Bank Login Monthly Client Reminders Review Request Email Template Series
Proposal Templates: Bookkeeping Proposal for New Clients v1.0 Bookkeeping Proposal v2.0 with Engagement Letter + Terms & Conditions
Onboarding Templates: New Client Bookkeeping Getting Started Guide Onboarding Workflow Infographic New Client Form
Authority Templates: SuperStream Authority BAS Provider (BASP) Authority STP 12 Month Enduring Authority
Other things mentioned: Episode #89 From Traditional to Extraordinary with Sharon Crombie from MicroChilli PandaDoc
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Join us for another episode of The Bookkeepers' Voice, as we continue with our 'EOFY Throwback Series' so you can be organised in the lead up to EOFY!
In last week's episode, we discussed the importance of Onboarding as part of a bookkeeping business as it sets the foundation for you and your clients. Getting it right EVERY time is also crucially important.
In this #throwback episode, we discuss how you can optimise, automate and streamline the entire workflow process to save you time and Non-Billable Admin headaches this EOFY season.
Key Takeaway: "Reduce the need for pesky client follow ups during the busy EOFY season and systemise your Onboarding Process today!"
Useful links: Template - Onboarding New Clients Template - New Client Bookkeeping Getting Started Guide
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Tune in to another episode of The Bookkeepers' Voice, as we continue with our 'EOFY Throwback Series.' We're bringing you this series so you can be organised in the lead up to EOFY!
In this episode, we'll be throwing back to an episode where Maia and Angie discuss one of their favourite topics - 'Onboarding,' and how it can be systemised to make your life easier. Did you know that by utilising a streamlined Onboarding process, you'll not only avoid an EOFY stress, but you'll change the way you do business forever!
So join us and learn how you can increase your client loyalty and retention through a systemised onboarding process along with the use of Savvy templates and processes.
Key takeaway: "By getting your Onboarding Processes out of your head and onto a workflow your EOFY can be stress free and streamlined."
Useful Links: Infographic - Onboarding Workflow
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Join us on The Bookkeepers' Voice as we bring you the third episode of our 'EOFY Throwback Series.' In this episode, we discuss improving your knowledge, reducing your risk and winning more bookkeeping clients. So what does this mean? We’re talking about bookkeeping and rescue jobs!
As your business evolves, so does your processes, pricing and most importantly - health checks. So we've also included a #throwback episode where Amy Hooke discusses the challenges of scoping rescue jobs and why you should always perform bookkeeping health checks before providing a quote or taking on a new client.
Key Takeaway: "Stop wasting time stumbling through Health Checks and gain the templates that will help you optimise the process!"
Useful links: Masterclass - Bookkeeping Health Check Free Health Check Templates
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Join us for another episode of The Bookkeepers' Voice, as we continue with our insightful 'EOFY Throwback Series,' so you can be prepared in the lead up to EOFY!
This week, we'll be discussing the ongoing headache of pricing our services - because seriously - who likes focusing on their pricing?! After all, it’s a tedious task and hard to know if you’ve got it right.
Throwing it back - Amy also discusses what to do about Non-Billable Time and how to achieve Pricing for Profit within your business. So whether you're new to this industry or you’ve been in the game for decades, this is an episode you don’t want to miss out on!
Key Takeaway: "Save up to 15 hours creating profitable quotes for your EOFY jobs."
Useful Links: Product - Pricing Catalogue
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Join us on The Bookkeepers' Voice, as we begin our exciting 'EOFY Throwback Series,' so you can be prepared in the lead up to EOFY!
As the guru and founder of The Savvy Bookkeeper, Amy Hooke is a big believer in doing things in the right order. So in this episode, and now that EOFY is upon up, we'll be chatting about the importance of having your foundations sorted and in the right order to avoid an EOFY headache!
Throwing it back - Amy also uncovers some alarming statistics about Australian small businesses which will help you understand the bigger picture and why Bookkeepers are SO important.
Key Takeaway: "By getting your business foundations in order from the beginning, your EOFY will fall into place!"
Useful Links: Product - Get Savvy! Business Foundations Program
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Join us for another episode of The Bookkeepers Voice' as we interrupt our Stress Series because EOFY is only around the corner!
In this episode, we'll be sharing the details on an insightful 'EOFY Throwback Series' we'll be bringing you that will cover everything you need to be prepared for in the lead up to EOFY.
So tune in over the next 6 weeks as we share some of our most memorable #throwback podcasts along with some additional templates and processes to help you implement each episode topic into your business right now for EOFY.
Key Takeaway: "It’s bookkeeping season. Let’s get our templates and processes prepared for this busy End Of Financial Year season ahead."
Useful Links: Podcast - The Bookkeepers Voice The Savvy Bookkeeper - Templates and Resources
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Join us for another insightful episode of The Bookkeepers Voice' as Amy Hooke, owner and founder of The Savvy Bookkeeper and Off the Hook Bookkeeping once again takes over the Podcast!
For our last episode, Amy was joined by Savvy Client Relationship Manager Angie as they discussed the importance of managing stress levels as a bookkeeper and business owner. In this episode, Amy chat's with our Practice Manager, Maia Coghlan to discuss some Savvy Tips on Managing Bookkeeping and Workflow Stress.
Key Takeaway: "By learning how to create a successful balance between work and home you’re able to increase your profits, productivity and overall happiness."
Useful Links: Podcast Ep #111 - Tips to Managing Your Bookkeeping Inbox
Priorities Masterclass
Podcast Ep #72 - Setting SMART Goals and Maintaining Your Focus With Maia Coghlan and Amy Hooke
Savvy Business Stress Test
Blog Post - 5 Steps to Banishing Invoicing Stress Forever
Blog Post - Diagnose your stress level to work smarter, not harder
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For this exciting episode of The Bookkeepers Voice' as we welcome back the owner and founder of this very podcast, The Savvy Bookkeeper and Off the Hook Bookkeeping - Amy Hooke!
Tune in for the beginning of a three part Podcast Series that will focus on Managing Stress. Over the next three episodes, Amy will be interviewing a few members of the Savvy team to chat about stress and how it can affect our bookkeeping businesses, our workplace and our lives in general.
In this episode, Amy will be interviewing our lovely Client Relationship Manager Angie Martin who many of you already know from past podcast episodes.
Key Takeaway: "Your energy is like a budget - you can spend all you want but eventually you need to replenish your ‘account’ to keep you going."
Useful Links: The Savvy Bookkeeper - Business Stress Test Blog post - 5 Steps to Banishing invoice stress Blog post - Business Coaching Stress Podcast - Workplace anxiety and depression\
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For this special episode of The Bookkeepers' Voice, Angie Martin is joined by Small Business Consultant and owner of Bishop’s Bookkeeping Solutions, Sarah-Jane!
As a client of The Savvy Bookkeeper and part of our Savvy Membership, Sarah-Jane is one of our superhero Bookkeepers, who not only runs a successful business, but does so alongside her husband Anthony while they raise their 4 children and fur-babies.
In this episode, you'll hear all about Sarah-Jane's background and how her bookkeeping journey began. As an automation 'Queen,' Sarah-Jane will also share how she used automations to help keep her business running during a recent interstate move and now ongoing.
Key Takeaway: "Through the use of automations you can put your family first while making sure your bookkeeping business flourishes."
Useful Links:
Product Feature - Marketing Masterclass (Value's exercise)
Product Feature - Savvy Membership Bishop’s Bookkeeping Solutions - Facebook Page Sarah-Jane - LinkedIn Profile Bishop’s Bookkeeping Solutions - Website Bishop’s Bookkeeping Solutions - LinkedIn Page
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In this insightful new episode of The Bookkeepers' Voice, Angie Martin gets real with ALL bookkeepers after what was undoubtedly a difficult 2020.
Join us as Angie will be reflecting on the challenges of 2020 and how so many people are still struggling as a result of bushfires, floods and the Covid-19 pandemic.
As bookkeepers, we all know that our industry has worked so hard to create a professional, refined and almost perfect face. Why? Because so many of us felt that our clients expected it, as well as our industry. However now is the time to stop being perfect because after all - no one is and no business is. In fact, now is the perfect time as an industry to get more comfortable in pulling back the curtain and showing the amazing business owners we are and that we too are human.
Key Takeaway: "Stop trying to be so perfect."
Useful Links:
Bookkeepers Business Stress Test
Blog: Bookkeeping with a Positive Mindset
Blog: How to Stay Sane While Working at Home as a Bookkeeper
Blog: Business Mentoring Insights: Why You Need Self-Awareness
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Join us for another episode of The Bookkeepers' Voice, as Angie Martin is once again joined by our amazing practice manager, Maia Coghlan! This episode will be wrapping up our Organisational Series with a very important topic and one we absolutely love - Email Inbox Management!
Listen in as we share some problems that bookkeepers typically come across (i.e. our inboxes always overflowing with mountains of irritation and stress), to some fabulous solutions that will help you get your email under control and increase productivity. We'll also be sharing our 12 Tricks to Managing Your Bookkeeping Inbox!
Remember, At the end of the day, your emails are just a tool for you to get your tasks done - you shouldn’t be a slave to them!
Key Takeaway: "By getting your email under control you will increase your productivity, decrease your feeling of stress and overwhelm and increase your level of customer satisfaction."
Useful Links:
Priorities Masterclass
Email Templates
Podcast Episode #72 - How to achieve Bookkeeper performance goals
Blog Post - How to set SMART Goals for Bookkeepers
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Once again we're excited to bring you another new episode of The Bookkeepers' Voice. For this episode, our host Angie Martin is again joined by our incredible practice manager, Maia Coghlan!
Last week we discussed all things organisation and how Bookkeepers can best manage their documents in the digital age.
Following on from this insightful episode, we thought we'd discuss more specifically the types of Digital Tools that can help us keep up to date with client files and save us time on a daily basis.
Key Takeaway: "There are a heap of tools that can help save you time and money in running your business"
Useful links: The Savvy Bookkeeper - Priorities Masterclass Podcast Ep #072 Setting SMART Goals and Maintaining Your Focus Blog Post - SMART goals for Bookkeepers Template - Onboarding new clients
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In this new and insightful episode of The Bookkeepers' Voice, Angie Martin is joined by fellow Savvy team member Maia Coghlan.
With more and more bookkeepers going virtual in the digital age, we are receiving many questions from our Savvy Members regarding how best to organise their bookkeeping documents.
So in this episode - listen in as Maia, who keeps Off The Hook Bookkeeping and the Savvy Team organised, chats with Angie Martin about our tips for managing your documents so you can say goodbye to poor time management and disorganisation.
Key Takeaway: "Learn how to use Digital Filing Systems to help empower you to be organised and productive."
Useful Links: Priorities Masterclass The Savvy Bookkeeper - Facebook The Savvy Bookkeeper - Instagram Off The Hook Bookkeeping - Facebook Off The Hook Bookkeeping - Instagram
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Join us again for another new episode of The Bookkeepers' Voice, as Angie Martin interviews special podcast guest and Savvy Member, Karen Andrews who is the Director of Vivid Enterprise Solutions!
Listen in to this exciting episode where Karen share's her bookkeeping journey and what it has been like working with a growing virtual team. Karen will also talk through getting her pricing and systems set up and how they have positively impacted the continuous growth of her business.
Key Takeaway: "When building a team, you don’t always have to be in the same room to be a success."
Useful Links: Hiring Bookkeeping Staff eCourse Pricing Catalogue Pricing Masterclass Health Check Masterclass Vivid Enterprise Solutions - LinkedIn Vivid Enterprise Solutions - Facebook Vivid Enterprise Solutions - Instagram Vivid Enterprise Solutions - Website
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In this new, insightful episode of The Bookkeepers' Voice, Angie Martin talks through the Top 5 Ways Bookkeepers Can Retain Clients and WHY retention is more important than ever.
In 2021 we are seeing a MASSIVE transition from bookkeepers who have traditionally worked face to face with clients, move their services online. This new 'Virtual' way of working is certainly exciting, however it can sometimes throw challenges when it comes to client retention.
Key Takeaways: "Retentions is earned" "Empathy needs to go both ways" "Play the long game"
Useful Links: 10 Tips for Building Strong Bookkeeping Relationships Episode 93 Bookkeeping Business Stress Test Guide to Digital Presence Onboarding Workflow Infographic
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For this new episode of The Bookkeepers' Voice, Angie is once again joined by Sharon Smith as they wrap up our fantastic bookkeeping report series.
Do you find it difficult to explain bookkeeping reports to your clients? Unfortunately as many bookkeepers know, clients don't make time to understand their financial reports, nor do they understand the difference between different reports. We also know that many clients simply postpone or ignore their reports because they're afraid to know what's happening.
Listen in to this exciting episode as Angie and Sharon share their 5 Savvy Tips to explaining bookkeeping reports to clients. Sharon will also reveal her tips and tricks for getting business owners interested, learning and growing!
Key Takeaway: "Are you just a bookkeeper or are you a bookkeeping service? Remember to take the time to understand your clients and their needs to help support them."
Useful Links: Cash Flow Spreadsheet Template
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Tune in for another new episode of The Bookkeepers' Voice, as Angie Martin is once again joined by podcast guest and Senior Bookkeeper of 'Off The Hook Bookkeeping,' Sharon Smith.
As most of us know, cash flow mismanagement is extremely common and as bookkeepers we always talk about how important it is for our clients to understand their cash flow better. However, when was the last time you did a cash flow projection for your own business?
In this episode, Sharon and Angie will discuss all things Cash Flow Reports, including everything you need to know so YOU can plan for the year ahead for YOUR business.
Key Takeaway: "Cash Flow Reports can help understand your bookkeeping businesses financial position to help you create successful short and long term goals and objectives."
Useful Links: Cash Flow Spreadsheet Template
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For this new episode of The Bookkeepers' Voice, Angie Martin is once again joined by podcast guest and Senior Bookkeeper of 'Off The Hook Bookkeeping' - Sharon Smith.
As Bookkeepers, we are often telling our clients how important budgets are however it’s very rare that we actually do our own. In this episode, Sharon and Angie discuss all things Personal and Professional Budgets including our top 6 reasons why you should have a budget.
Key Takeaway: 'Understanding what you want out of your bookkeeping career and lifestyle is so important.'
Useful Links: Cashflow Forecast Spreadsheet Podcast - Managing Money in a Small Business Podcast - Changing your beliefs about money Off The Hook Bookkeeping - Website Off The Hook Bookkeeping - Facebook Off The Hook Bookkeeping - Instagram
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Join us today for another new episode of The Bookkeepers' Voice, as Angie Martin interviews podcast guest Sharon Smith who is our Head Senior Bookkeeper and Financial Consultant at Off the Hook Bookkeeping - Amy’s business!
In this exciting episode, hear from Sharon as she shares her bookkeeping journey including how she became a bookkeeper. You'll also get to learn why she decided to work for Off The Hook Bookkeeping, rather than create her own business - being a highly qualified bookkeeper.
Angie will then discuss all things reports with Sharon including why she loves Bookkeeping Reports so much and why she think's they're so important.
Key Takeaway: 'Understanding what you want out of your bookkeeping career and lifestyle is so important.'
Useful Links: Australian Defence force Off The Hook Bookkeeping - Website Off The Hook Bookkeeping - Facebook Off The Hook Bookkeeping - Instagram
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Join us for this brand new episode of The Bookkeepers' Voice as Savvy's Angie Martin talks all things Instagram Stories and why they are so important for Bookkeepers!
Tune in and learn the ins and outs of Instagram Stories including what they're about, the features you should be using, why they're so effective as part of your marketing strategy and why YOU should be using them as a bookkeeper!
Did you know that 500 million people post to Instagram stories a day and of those, 62% say they’ve become more interested in a brand or product after viewing it in Instagram Stories? Incredible, isn't it?
Key takeaway: "Instagram Stories have the power to help convert followers into leads. When you create engaging content and use Instagram Stories well, you give your followers a good reason to visit your website or provide their details for you to contact them."
Relevant links: 5 Step Guide to Creating Your Digital Presence
30 Day Instagram Story Planner
Tools to Create Better Instagram Stories
Savvy Instagram Style Guide
Bookkeepers Guide to Instagram Stories
Airtable Social Media Planner
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Last week on The Bookkeepers' Voice we were so excited to celebrate our 100th episode, whilst welcoming you to 2021. Join us again this week as Angie and founder of The Savvy Bookkeeper, Amy Hooke, discuss all that was 2020 bookkeeping and our hopes for the new year!
Tune in and you'll hear their thoughts on how 2020 impacted the bookkeeping industry, including the growth of the industry and changes that occurred across the year. Angie and Amy will also discuss the mass migration to virtual services and an increase in businesses needing to have a digital presence.
Key Takeaway: "2020 saw a mass migration of businesses moving online and more clients than ever before engaging with virtual services. If you haven't already done so, 2021 is your year to move your business online - whether that be building a website or launching your business on social media."
Useful Links: Vic Gov Business Resilience Package Aus Gov Small Business Ombudsman OTHB Blog
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The Bookkeepers' Voice is back! That's right - join Angie for this very special 100th episode of the podcast and first of the new year as she shares what we have planned for 2021, including some exciting big series coming up!
While it’s safe to say that 2020 certainly didn't go the way any of us thought it would - that doesn’t mean it’s all been bad. In fact, there’s been some incredible developments in the world of bookkeeping. So listen in as we share all of this and more!
Key Takeaway: "We have some big things coming your way in 2021! Make sure you tune in to get a sneak peek!"
Useful links: I <3 Bookkeeping Facebook Group I <3 Payroll Facebook Group Savvy Membership The Bookkeepers Voice
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Join us again for a new episode of The Bookkeepers' Voice, as we say goodbye to 2020.
It's been a crazy and difficult year for many, so we look forward to supporting all of you in 2021 to help make it the best year yet for you and your bookkeeping businesses! Of course, we are already excited about what's in store for the new year with a whole heap of fun and exciting new episodes, guest speakers and topics planned for you.
Please note: As our team is taking a break during the holiday season, we will also be taking a break from The Bookkeepers Voice. Stay tuned!
Useful Links: The Savvy Bookkeeper - Website The Savvy Bookkeeper - Podcasts
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Join us today for another exciting new episode of The Bookkeepers' Voice, as we are thrilled to be accompanied by podcast guest Malisa Clarence who is the Director of MBooks. Malisa is also a member of the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (ICB), a registered BAS Agent and Xero Certified Consultant.
Malisa will be sharing her bookkeeping journey with us, including how she went from solopreneur to business owner, how she manages to juggle a busy family life whilst supporting her husband who is also an entrepreneur and how she runs her successful bookkeeping business.
Key Takeaway: "By getting your bookkeeping systems optimised you will be able to transition from solopreneur to business owner giving you more time to focus on what matters to you."
Useful Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/malisa-clarence FB Page: facebook.com/mbooks.com.au Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/mbooksbas/ Website: mbooks.com.au
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Today on The Bookkeepers' Voice, we’re excited to be again joined by podcast guest and founder of The Savvy Bookkeeper, Amy Hooke. For last week’s episode, Amy shared her bookkeeping journey including how she became a bookkeeper. She also discussed along with Angie, the concept of profit IQ and why helping clients become more profitable is so important.
A little while ago we asked what YOU would like to ask us. So, for today’s new episode, #teamsavvy member Maia, is conducting an exciting Q&A session with Amy! That’s right, Amy will be answering all of the questions that were posted by our bookkeeping community to our I <3 Bookkeeping Facebook Group. We hope you enjoy it!
Key Takeaway: "Life doesn't take your plans into account, so have plans, but be ready to change them if necessary."
Useful Links: Off The Hook Bookkeeping – LinkedIn Page Off The Hook Bookkeeping – Instagram Page Off The Hook Bookkeeping – Facebook Page Off The Hook Bookkeeping – Website
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We invite you to a brand new episode of The Bookkeepers' Voice, as Angie is again joined by podcast guest and founder of The Savvy Bookkeeper and Off The Hook Bookkeeping, Amy Hooke!
You'll get to learn more about Amy's bookkeeping journey including how she became a bookkeeper and what makes her second business 'Off The Hook Bookkeeping' different. Amy will also talk all things profit - including how bookkeepers are helping businesses raise their profit IQ and why helping her clients become more profitable is so important.
Key Takeaway: "Bookkeepers always say they are 'just a bookkeeper' but in fact they are business owners, entrepreneurs AND Bookkeepers."
Useful Links: Off The Hook Bookkeeping – LinkedIn Page Off The Hook Bookkeeping – Instagram Page Off The Hook Bookkeeping – Facebook Page Off The Hook Bookkeeping – Website
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Today on The Bookkeepers' Voice, join Angie, Maia and special guest Amy Hooke, our very own founder, who will be discussing the importance of 'personal and professional development' and why both never end.
In this exciting new episode, Amy will talk all things business development and the growth of The Savvy Bookkeeper and Off The Hook Bookkeeping. She will also share how the COVID pandemic has impacted her as a business owner and mother in Victoria, as well as her plans moving into 2021.
Key takeaway: "No matter what life throws at you, continue to work on your personal and professional development to the best of your ability. It's also important to remember that people have different coping mechanisms when life throws difficult situations. Check in with those around you whether that be staff, clients, friends or family - it makes all the difference!"
Useful Links: Episode #004 - 5 Things business women can stop feeling guilty about TODAY
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On today's new episode of the The Bookkeepers' Voice, we're excited to be joined by podcast guest and client of The Savvy Bookkeeper, Kristy Fairbairn, who will be sharing her experience with employing a Virtual Assistant.
Join Angie as she speaks with Kristy about how her bookkeeping journey began including her business, 'Oasis Bookkeeping,' how employing a virtual assistant changed her business and how she implemented a strong marketing message surrounding her digital presence.
Key takeaway: "It’s okay to accept you can’t do everything yourself in your bookkeeping business. Sometimes a VA is exactly what you're looking for to increase your digital presence, lead generation and client relationships."
Useful links: Oasis Bookkeeping - LinkedIn Page Oasis Bookkeeping - Instagram Page Oasis Bookkeeping - Facebook Page Oasis Bookkeeping - Website
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Over the last few weeks we've been working away at breaking down what client onboarding is, why it's important, what's included in creating an Onboarding Workflow and last week, we shared some fantastic templates to make the process easier on you!
Join us again for this new episode of The Bookkeepers' Voice, as we share 10 Savvy Tips to help you create better relationships with your bookkeeping clients through the use of your Onboarding Process.
From personalising your clients experience, thinking about long term onboarding rather than just short term, educating your client on an ongoing basis, ensuring handover is as smooth as possible - we've got all the tips you need to make the process as easy as it should be!
Key Takeaway: "When your client has a positive experience during the onboarding process, your work will pay itself over, as they will establish trust in your brand and also loyalty right away."
Useful links: Airtable Episode #092 - Onboarding Templates Episode #091 - Optimised Onboarding Workflow Episode #090 - Onboarding and Why is it Important
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Following on from last week's episode about creating a Bookkeeping Onboarding Process and Workflow, today's episode of The Bookkeepers' Voice discusses Templates that we use in the process, making this workflow as easy as possible for you.
Tune in as Angie and Maia share 4 types of bookkeeping onboarding templates, why each are so important, where they fit into the process and how they are going to make your life so much easier! From email templates to proposals, to onboarding templates and authority templates - we've covered them all!
If you've ever had any questions about what kinds of templates other bookkeepers use - this is exactly what we share with you in this episode: the exact templates that we use for Off The Hook Bookkeeping, and the templates that our clients have requested from us to fit into their own workflows. We're not saying that what works for us will work for you, but hopefully with enough information and guidance you can get your own systems and templates organised and making your life easier.
Key takeaway: "When you have templates and a good system, your Onboarding Process is going to be effortless!"
Useful links:
Email Templates: New Client On-boarding (Company) New Client On-boarding (Sole Trader) Accountant Introduction Reminder Receipt Bank Login Monthly Client Reminders Review Request Email Template Series
Proposal Templates: Bookkeeping Proposal for New Clients v1.0 Bookkeeping Proposal v2.0 with Engagement Letter + Terms & Conditions
Onboarding Templates: New Client Bookkeeping Getting Started Guide Onboarding Workflow Infographic New Client Form
Authority Templates: SuperStream Authority BAS Provider (BASP) Authority STP 12 Month Enduring Authority
Other things mentioned: Episode #89 From Traditional to Extraordinary with Sharon Crombie from MicroChilli PandaDoc
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Last week on The Bookkeepers' Voice, Angie and Maia discussed the "what and why" of Client Onboarding. Join us again for this new episode as we dive a little deeper and talk about actually creating your optimised onboarding workflow!
With an easy to follow 5 step process, you'll learn about sales conversion, welcoming your new clients, collecting necessary information, and more! All with a focus on doing these things in a way that is streamlined rather than time consuming.
Remember that no process is expected to be perfect the first time around. That's why it's important to pay attention to how your clients' experience with your onboarding system is flowing, so you can improve and perfect as you go. Figure out what is working and what isn’t, and make the changes accordingly.
Key takeaway: "An efficient onboarding process ensures a solid partnership between you and your clients in order to build loyalty and help with client retention."
Useful links: Loom - for video recording Getting Started Guide Onboarding Process info graphic - free guide!
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Get ready for a new mini series of The Bookkeepers' Voice. Today Angie and Maia are going to be talking all things onboarding, a topic that we will cover in great depth over the next few weeks.
We're kicking off the first episode in this series with getting super clear on what onboarding is and why it's important. Tune in for some useful examples and great information that you can start implementing in your business.
"Onboarding" is a bit of a buzzword in the community at the moment, so we hope you're excited for this new series! We're excited to share with you all the ways your onboarding system can improve your business.
Key takeaway: "By implement a Bookkeeping Onboarding Process and Workflow you will be able to have more efficiency, reduced scope creep, and happier clients".
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On this week's episode of The Bookkeepers' Voice, Angie and Maia are joined by Sharon Crombie, a passionate entrepreneur and fellow bookkeeper; aka owner and CEO of MicroChilli.
After so many years in the industry and being disenchanted with starting her own business in the past, Sharon has now decided to embrace her passion and break free from what bookkeepers are "supposed" to be.
Sharon has worked hard over the last few months taking MicroChilli from concept to reality. Within her business she has ditched the 9-5 and focuses on working with micro clients to help them go “From Hot Mess to Flaming Success”.
Key Takeaway: "Once you give yourself permission to be you and only you, you'll transform your business and how much you love it."
Useful Links: MicroChilli website
Connect with Sharon: LinkedIn Twitter Facebook Instagram Get your Smokin’ Hot Cashflow Planner
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We've got another inspiring episode of The Bookkeepers' Voice for you today! This week Angie spills the beans on all things sales, providing you with 11 tips to improve your processes and win your sales!
This week is full of useful information like "how to get to know your leads before meeting them without seeming creepy", and "how to effortlessly point them in the right direction to get the best outcome for your sales process".
Following the tips this week will put you in the best position possible to start closing more sales and fill your client base with clients that you love!
Key takeaway: "Remember to SMILE! Even if they can't see you they can hear/read a smile."
Useful Links
085 Why Bookkeepers Need a Follow Up Process
086 Creating Your Follow-Up Process
087 Automating Your Follow Up Process
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On this week's episode of The Bookkeepers' Voice, Angie and Maia continue their discussion on follow-up processes, now getting into the juicy details of how to automate them.
This week you'll learn exactly how to set up your automation process to make your follow ups as easy for you to manage as possible. Maia goes through and outlines the process of using a CRM to set up your automation in step by step detail, so you can get started today.
Following the tips this week will allow you to implement your learning from the last few episodes and get automated!
Key takeaway: “The purpose of automation is to make things happen automatically… so you don't have to them yourself!!”
This is the 5th episode in our series on Automations and Follow-ups. if you haven't listened to the previous few episodes check them out:
083 Why Bookkeepers Need a Website
084 Streamline Your Bookkeeping Business with the help of your Website
085 Why Bookkeepers Need a Follow Up Process
086 Creating Your Follow-Up Process
And if you want to hear more from Maia about automation check out her solo episode.
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Join us today for another exciting episode of The Bookkeepers' Voice as we continue to discuss the importance of client follow up and how automating this process will not only save you a whole lot of time, but give your business the boost it needs in the easiest way possible.
Listen in as Angie and Maia share with you our 6 simple steps to implementing an effective automated follow up process for your Bookkeeping Business which will help you increase productivity and efficiency.
Key takeaway: “Whilst automating your workflow process is great for productivity, remember that there’s one very important thing you can’t automate – and that is the client relationship. The bookkeeping industry is based on trust and at the end of the day, this is how our clients measure and value us."
Useful Links:
Check out the previous 3 episodes to get yourself up-to-date with the automation series:
Episode 1 https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/Podcast/why-bookkeepers-need-a-website/
Episode 2 https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/Podcast/streamline-your-bookkeeping-business-with-the-help-of-your-website/
Episode 3 https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/Podcast/why-bookkeepers-need-a-followup-process/
Extra links: Savvy I <3 Bookkeeping Facebook Page Savvy Instagram Page Savvy LinkedIn Page
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Today on The Bookkeepers’ Voice, we’re discussing the concept of follow up and why it’s so important that YOU as a bookkeeper (or really any business) needs to have a follow up process in place.
Did you know that 44% of small business owners give up after one follow up with a prospect and that 10% of business owners only make three follow ups with a prospect before they give up? Why is this significant you ask? Because 80% of sales close between the 5th and 12th contact point. So join Angie and Maia as they discuss the simple yet effect concept of follow up and why implementing such a process will more than revolutionise your small business.
Key takeaway: “There’s no question that you should have a follow up process. Why? Because it works! Our top tip – automate the process as much as possible and you won’t have to spend a lot of time doing it. It’s a win-win for you AND your business!”
Useful Links:
Link to talking money episodes Episode 1 https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/Podcast/how-to-manage-money-in-a-small-business/ Episode 2 https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/Podcast/how-to-change-your-beliefs-about-money/
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Join us for another episode of The Bookkeepers Voice, as we talk about automations and how they can reinvent the way your Bookkeeping business operates. Did you know that Workflow Automation on websites has already completely transformed numerous Bookkeeping Businesses by enabling them to spend less time on manual tasks and more time on growing their business?
Tune in as Angie and Maia share how you can set up workflows on your website to reduce your manual tasks and start automating those tedious tasks that you hate doing!
Key takeaway: ‘Once you’ve streamlined and automated all of your processes, you’ll free up a lot of time which you used to spend working through manual processes. Not only will this give you more time to concentrate on what matters most – the growth of your business and developing new goals, you’ll elevate the performance of your bookkeeping business, making you more efficient than ever!’
Useful links: Episode 73 - Bookkeeping workflows and automations https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/Podcast/bookkeeping-business-workflow/ Episode 83 - why you need a bookkeeper https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/Podcast/why-bookkeepers-need-a-website/ Hubspot (for automations) https://www.hubspot.com/ Active Campaign (for automations) https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/activecampaign Acuity (Booking Software) https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/acuity Calendly (Booking Software) https://calendly.com/ Airtable https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/airtable Priorities Masterclass https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/priorities-masterclass/
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Today on The Bookkeepers’ Voice, we’re talking about having an online presence and why YOU as a bookkeeper need a bookkeeping website! While we understand that running a bookkeeping website may not be an easy task, that shouldn’t be an excuse to take shortcuts – or worse, avoid creating a website all together.
Listen ahead as Savvy team members Angie Martin and Maia Coghlan discuss the very reasons why you need a bookkeeping website to including their importance in positioning your business with a strong and professional first impression for new and prospective clients, as well as their power as a marketing tool.
Key takeaway: “If you have a bookkeeping business but don’t have a website you are losing out on opportunities for your business”
Useful links:
Podcast: Importance of social media for bookkeepers https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/Podcast/social-media-for-bookkeepers/
Podcast mentioned in episode: Lead Magnets https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/Podcast/bookkeeping-lead-magnets/
Podcast mentioned in episode: Automations and Streamlining https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/Podcast/bookkeeping-business-workflow/
Free Business Plan Template https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/getbusinessplan/
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How to change your beliefs about money is perhaps one of the most overlooked things in a Bookkeeper's life. Many Bookkeepers, whether employed or self-employed, don't ever seem to be able to get into their groove. They have the talent, training, and experience, but things never quite work how they should. But faulty beliefs down deeper than their sparkling resume are the real issue.
Am I worth what I charge? Should I be charging for the work that I do? Is this client going to leave me - and if yes, how am I going to provide for myself and my family? These questions can plague many business owners and bookkeepers, and they take up valuable mental resources with questions that never seem to get answered.
Angie Martin talks to Melissa Meagher in Part 2 of their Podcasts together, about these things. Melissa has worked with a lot of elite, highly competent professionals, who felt great shame about their seeming inability to "get it" about how to manage their money. But the issue wasn't even about how much they earned, but about their beliefs about themselves, and their worthiness to earn money, and what money really meant to them and about them.
Key Takeaway: Learning how to change your beliefs about money so you are empowered is an essential key to having a successful professional life!
Useful links: Offer45 Complimentary Strategy Session via Zoom http://bit.ly/MelissaMeagher Money Smart Budget Planner - https://moneysmart.gov.au/budgeting/budget-planner Budgeting Apps - Pocketbook and Money Brilliant Upcoming Wealth Consciousness Retreat for Professional Women - https://bit.ly/WealthConsciousnessRetreat LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/talkingmoney/ FB Page https://www.facebook.com/talkingmoneyaus/ Instagram Page https://www.instagram.com/melissa_talkingmoney/ Website https://www.talkingmoney.net.au/ Podcast 1 with Melissa How to manage money in a small business Blog Post A list of limiting beliefs about money
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In today's episode, Angie Martin is talking money with Melissa Meagher. Learning how to manage money in a small business is an essential skill that Bookkeepers can share with their clients. But Bookkeepers often need help in their own businesses too! And the foundation of that is having a healthy relationship with money in their personal finances.
Melissa Meagher is a Money Mindset & Success Coach, with experience as a financial planner and stockbroker. After interacting with many high functioning professionals, who were usually very well paid because they were experienced and excellent at their jobs, it became obvious that many didn't have the right framework, tools and mindset regarding money. Even though they were making a lot of money!
Most of these people needed help, even those in the financial sector. By breaking down inhibiting barriers, and gaining the right perspective about money, clients of Melissa gained freedom in their finances. If you listen in, you can too!
Key Takeaway: Knowing where your money goes gives you freedom and choice of where you want it to go.
Useful Links: Offer45 Complimentary Strategy Session via Zoom http://bit.ly/MelissaMeagher Money Smart Budget Planner - https://moneysmart.gov.au/budgeting/budget-planner Budgeting Apps - Pocketbook and Money Brilliant Upcoming Wealth Consciousness Retreat for Professional Women - https://bit.ly/WealthConsciousnessRetreat LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/talkingmoney/ FB Page https://www.facebook.com/talkingmoneyaus/ Instagram Page https://www.instagram.com/melissa_talkingmoney/ Website https://www.talkingmoney.net.au/ Podcast 2 with Melissa https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/Podcast/how-to-change-your-beliefs-about-money/ Blog Post A list of limiting beliefs about money
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If you were ever wondering about how to market on Instagram, this week's episode is for you dear Bookkeeper! Angie Martin gives an in depth breakdown on how to use Instagram, as well as decoding the jargon that Instagram uses. All platforms use their own terminology, and now you don't have to wonder what Instagram's is!
Last episode you have already seen that Instagram is actually a legitimate method of employing social media marketing. Now you will now learn how to do it! So if your ideal clients flourish on Instagram, you can go where they are, and get seen and engaged with by even more businesses that fit in what is your ideal client type. And keep yourself in the minds of existing clients. This helps them remember their valuable business partner (you!) and implement the things you have shown them to do. This is an excellent use of social media to strengthen your Bookkeeping Business!
This episode is an hour, and full of information – so get a cup of tea and a note pad ready!
The key takeaway: How to market on Instagram is now decoded for you, please apply this guide liberally!
Useful links: Blog post partner to this podcast: on the way Listen to Episode 79 onInstagram Bookkeeping marketing and why it works SeeThe Savvy Bookkeeper on Instagram Podcast 74 about why Social Media for Bookkeepers is needed Book a free initial consultation with me (Angie)
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This week, Angie Martin gives you clarity whether Instagram Bookkeeping marketing is for your Bookkeeping Business, or not.
Instagram is very different from Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. But it isn't just for selling products. If your ideal clients are on Instagram, then you need to go where they are. Instagram will help you to engage with those ideal clients AND it will also help you to be seen as more than "just a bookkeeper".
As small business and social media expand in influence, becoming savvy about Instagram could be a key in getting yourself seen and engaged with by the people you love working with.
The social networking on Instagram is much more organic and intuitive than on Facebook or LinkedIn. Your social reach will get far greater results too.
The key takeaway: Instagram is a wonderful platform and an asset to Bookkeeper's social media marketing
Useful links: Blog post partner to this podcast: Number 1 Instagram for Bookkeeping Businesses Blog post partner to this podcast: Number 2 Top 9 reasons to be a Bookkeeper on Instagram SeeThe Savvy Bookkeeper on Instagram Podcast 74 about why Social Media for Bookkeepers is needed Book a free initial consultation with me (Angie)
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This week, Angie talks about LinkedIn Company Page Tips and how to do them so LinkedIn helps marketing your Bookkeeper Business.
By following this helpful guide, your LinkedIn Company Page will be an asset to your sales and marketing efforts. And naturally it works even when your not at work, and additionally people can browse what you and your business are about at their leisure.
This is a comprehensive run down of how to make LinkedIn a source of strength for your interactions with potential ideal clients. Use these and get seen and engaged via LinkedIn!
Key takeaway: Implement these LinkedIn Company Page Tips and get ahead in your bookkeeping marketing efforts!
Useful links: Blog post partner to this podcast:8 tips on how to optimise linkedin company page for Bookkeepers See our LinkedIn Profilehttps://au.linkedin.com/company/thesavvybookkeeper Podcast 74 why Social Media for Bookkeepers is needed Podcast 77 on Bookkeeper LinkedIn implementation LinkedIn Book a free initial consultation with me (Angie)
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This week, Angie talks about LinkedIn Pages and what they can do for your Bookkeeper Business.
LinkedIn launched LinkedIn Pages to provide a new way for consumers to discover and vet their favourite businesses – and for businesses, organisations and institutions to connect with their audiences. Since then, many bookkeeping businesses have been missing the mark by not having or utilising a LinkedIn Company Page.
The team at the Savvy Bookkeeper wants all that to change! Listen to this episode and learn how LinkedIn Company Pages can help your bookkeeping business get found online.
Key takeaway: Bookkeeper LinkedIn Company Pages are a great addition to your marketing.
Useful links: Blog post partner to this podcast: https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/bookkeeper-linkedin-company-pages/ See our LinkedIn Profile https://au.linkedin.com/company/thesavvybookkeeper Podcast 74 why Social Media for Bookkeepers is needed Podcast 75 about Bookkeeper FaceBook Pages Podcast 76 about Optimising Facebook Bookkeeping Pages LinkedIn Book a free initial consultation with me (Angie)
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Ever wondered how to make the best use of Facebook for your Bookkeeping Business? This is the question we get asked all the time at The Savvy Bookkeeper and the answer is different for every business. With that said; there are tried and tested essentials tools that Facebook does provide that can greatly assist you in making the most of your Facebook Business Page. Due to the fact there are there so many features available we have grouped them in Content Categories to help you understand the elemental and overall use of each tool available in your Facebook Business Page.
The take home is “Making your Bookkeeper Facebook Pages a success will help you to find and engage potential ideal clients"
Useful Links: Blog Post about Bookkeeping Facebook Pages Episode #074 about Social Media for Bookkeepers Marketing – LISTEN TO THIS ONE FIRST! Blog post for Episode #074 about Social Media for Bookkeeping The Savvy Bookkeeper on Facebook Join The I <3 Bookkeeping Facebook group. Book a free initial consultation with me (Angie) email us at angie at thesavvybookkeeper.com.au if you’re interested in a mentoring session to get you on track and focused.
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Facebook is the leading Social Media platform today. Even outranking LinkedIn for businesses.
It makes a lot of sense to get your Bookkeeping Business onto Facebook as soon as possible!
In this episode, Angie will help you to understand how useful a Facebook Business page can be. And how to do it!
So whether you are a solo Bookkeeper, have employees, or are in charge of a large firm, Bookkeeper Facebook pages are an important tool to help you to engage with potential clients. Make sure yours is launched and up to date. Even if you don't like Facebook for your own personal social media, ignoring it from a business perspective isn't a wise choice. And for those of you who love Facebook, it's time to have it do some work for you!
The take home is “Making your Bookkeeper Facebook Pages a success will help you to find and engage potential ideal clients"
Useful Links: Blog Post about Bookkeeping Facebook Pages Episode #074 about Social Media for Bookkeepers Marketing – LISTEN TO THIS ONE FIRST! Blog post for Episode #074 about Social Media for Bookkeeping The Savvy Bookkeeper on Facebook Join The I <3 Bookkeeping Facebook group.
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Let’s admit something most bookkeepers already know but don’t always want to accept: your business needs a Social Media presence.
It doesn’t matter if you run a small part-time bookkeeping business or an agency or if you aren’t looking to grow your business; Social Media is an essential piece of your business’s Marketing Strategy. For years now, Social Media for Bookkeepers has become one of the most important aspects of Digital Marketing and Bookkeepers can no longer ignore this important outlet if you are to remain relevant in today’s ever evolving market.
In this episode, Angie will help you to understand how useful Social Media can be.
The take home is “Social Media for Bookkeepers will give you new opportunities for your ideal clients to see and engage you."
Useful Links: Blog post for this Podcast about Social Media for Bookkeeping Listen to Podcast #071 about using a Bookkeeper Google My Business Listing The accompanying Blog Post about having a Google My Business Listing Listen to Podcast #036 with Samuel Burmeister from Tall Booksabout Leveraging Social Media. Join The I <3 Bookkeeping FaceBook group. The Savvy Bookkeeper on FaceBook
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In this week's episode of The Bookkeepers' Voice, Maia explains the benefits of having automations and workflows, and what they can do for your business.
Many bookkeepers are great at "streamlining" their clients' processes, but don't take the time to do the same for their own business. This can hurt productivity and efficiency, and cost you more time than necessary.
Tune in to learn what workflows and automations are, and how you can use them to streamline your own business processes. Even if you think you don't need them!
Key takeaway: "Spend time to save time, and improve efficiency in the process"
Useful Links:
• Blog post partner to this podcast: Bookkeeping Workflow
• Active Campaign* https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/activecampaign
• Airtable* https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/airtable
• Teamwork* https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/teamwork
Contact us at savvy@thesavvybookkeeper.com.au if you have any questions or want to get your own processes automated.
• If you want to join us on FaceBook https://www.facebook.com/thesavvybookkeeper/
*These are affiliate links :)
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This week we are officially introducing you to Maia, Amy's Wing-Woman. Find out how she got this title, and then pick up some great productivity tips as Maia talks about her superpower: planning and organising.
In this episode you'll learn how to set SMART goals that are realistic and achievable, how to narrow down your goals so you won't burn out trying to do too many things, and how to mentally set aside all that extra stuff that is getting in your way.
Key takeaway: "Make SMART goals: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-bound. And don't forget your Schedule!"
Useful Links: Blog Post from January about setting goals not resolutions https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/setting-goals-in-2020/ Blog post partner to this podcast Set the 5 SMART Goals for Bookkeepers Book your Free Initial Consult with Maia https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/freeconsult If you're interested in mentoring with Maia to help with your goals or mapping out your processes contact savvy@thesavvybookkeeper.com.au
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In this episode, Angie Martin and Will Hooke talk about getting good clients for a Bookkeeping Business with a Google My Business Listing. A Bookkeeper Google My Business listing is a great way to increase online visibility.
They talk about why a GMB Listing is a worthwhile investment for any Bookkeeper who wants to get more ideal clients that they love working with, and who love working with them. It gets a Bookkeeper seen, generates trust and authenticity so that potential clients already have a rapport with the Bookkeeping Business, rather than the relationship being cold before they contact you by phone or email.
Key takeaway: “Leveraging a Bookkeeper Google My Business listing is a great way of getting clients who already know who you are, and still want to engage your services!"
Useful links:
• Sign up for your Google My Business Listing: https://www.google.com.au/business/sign-up/index.html
• The Savvy Bookkeeper can set up your Google My Business Listing: https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/book-free-strategy/
• Kate Toon talking about SEO with Amy Hooke: https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/059
• Associated Blog Post https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/bookkeeping-google-my-business-listing/
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Bookkeeping can be a lonely job, especially if you are often a lone financial specialist working in your client's business. Keeping an optimistic mindset is essential to navigate the impact of Coronavirus lockdown restrictions.
In this episode, Angie Martin shows how to have a positive mindset in spite of the circumstances. Angie shares her 3 year journey of transitioning from feeling "positive thinking is something fluffy and not real" to making a daily practice of having a half full mindset. And how that half full mindset actually works.
This isn't fluff, or faking a smile until things stop being stressful. If it sounds too good to be true, listen in and see how Angie has actually changed her life through having a positive mindset.
You can do it too!
Key takeaway: "You magnify what you focus on. By focusing on the good things in your life, the hardships and struggles life brings will have less power and influence over you."
Useful links:
• If you are struggling with life at the moment, please reach out and seek help https://www.beyondblue.org.au/
• Your local GP can help you with a mental healthcare plan.
• Your brain has a physical structure, and you change it with what you think about. Take advantage of it! https://meteoreducation.com/how-does-thinking-positive-thoughts-affect-neuroplasticity/
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While many bookkeepers are used to working from home and might have been doing so for 10 or more years, the current social climate makes things a bit different even for us.
Are you used to working in an office with people and now you're stuck at home? Have you recently discovered that having your family home all the time isn't the best for your productivity or sanity? Maybe you're used to unwinding by going out to socialise, and now you can't.
This week Maia and Will from #TeamSavvy discuss our techniques for staying sane while working from home, avoiding distractions, and getting the most out of our free time.
Key takeaway: "Be encouraged. We are all going through this, and there are ways we can make bookkeeper mental health easier for one another"
Useful Links:
• MEETUP https://www.meetup.com/en-AU/
• INSIGHT TIMER https://insighttimer.com/
• BLOG POST version of this podcast
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Coronavirus may be a turning point for bookkeepers and their relationships with small business owners.
Join Amy Hooke this week and get all your Coronavirus, JobKeeper and ATO Stimulus payment questions answer.
Amy covers everything from helping clients with managing their cashflow, to showing you how to do journal entries to record Stimulus payments, to wielding your authority as a BAS agent to build credibility in the business community.
Key takeaway: "There's no such thing as a stupid question when it comes to Navigating Coronavirus."
Useful links:
• Join a Navigating Coronavirus Coworking group and get past and future replays and templates https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/coronavirus
• Watch the LIVE replay video of this episode in the Savvy facebook group https://www.facebook.com/groups/thesavvybookkeeper/permalink/3356369514376196/
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What is a lead magnet? Why would I give away my intellectual property for free? What can I use as a lead magnet? How do I actually get people to find it?
Have you ever asked any of these questions? Maybe you've never heard of a lead magnet at all. But if you're running a business and you want to increase your leads, and the QUALITY of your leads, then you need drumroll a lead magnet!
Join Angie and Maia from #TeamSavvy as they cover the ins and outs of lead magnets (and a few other useful tidbits along the way). This episode is bursting with oodles of information that you can action RIGHT NOW to help grow and support your business.
Useful links:
Blog Posts: • How to Create a Successful Bookkeeping Lead Magnet in 5 Easy Steps
• Why Give Valuable Bookkeeping Content Away for Free?!
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Do you find yourself doing repetetive tasks OVER and OVER again? Do you ever avoid creating or updating a template, and then later find yourself frustrated, wishing you'd done it last time? You're not alone!
Join Team Savvy (aka Angie, Maia and Amy) to hear how three very different people organise themselves in business (and life) by using templates, workflows and batching tasks.
Key takeaway: Templates and workflows are business assets which give you back time and increase the value of your business
Helpful links:
Health Check Templates
https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/healthcheck
Initial Consult & New Client Form Templates
https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/initialconsult
Airtable - Organise ANYTHING! (Affiliate Link)
https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/airtable
PandaDoc - Digital Templates & eSignatures (Affiliate Link)
https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/pandadoc
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Have you ever been on the phone for hours, yet are just saying the same thing over and over again? Many business owners rely on their bookkeeper to keep them updated about things. Especially with the Corona Virus (COVID-19) interrupting everything and Jobkeeper Payments being released by the Australian Government.
Bookkeepers often really care about their clients, but being on call, especially if it isn't being paid for, can be highly disruptive. And actually stop Bookkeepers from getting the work done that they were engaged to do! By upskilling in email communication, a bookkeeper can save themselves hours of time, saying the same information to clients.
The Savvy Bookkeeper's Client Relationship Manager, Angie Martin hosts today's episode; and tells you how to get emailing working for you. Email has often been given a bad wrap, but if you listen in, you can get your emails so they become effective, and they will help your clients help you.
Key Takeaway: "Getting your emails skills upgraded will save you hours of time, keep you clients in the loop about what they need to know, and give them actionable steps that help them get things done effectively."
Helpful Links:
• The Importance of Effective Email Communication for Bookkeepers Blog Post: https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/the-importance-of-email-communication-for-bookkeepers/
• Grammarly: https://www.grammarly.com/
• Navigating Coronavirus (COVID-19) registration link: https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/coronavirus
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Have you ever been knocked back trying to get your clients to care about their financial reports? Many business owners rely on the bank balance to tell them how the business is going. And others desperately want help but don't know who to ask.
As bookkeepers, we're perfectly positioned to assist our clients have breakthrough with their business finances. In an information packed episode, Amy Hooke chats to Mick Devine, CEO and founder of Calxa.
Mick's a CPA turned software developer after becoming frustrated with spreadsheets. And over the years he's been able to help bookkeepers help their clients to think (and care) about their financials.
Key Takeaway: "You don't have to be an expert, or to even give advice. But if you can ask insightful questions you'll make yourself invaluable to your clients."
Helpful links:
Start 30-day Calxa Trial
https://www.calxa.com/freetrial/
Navigating Coronavirus
https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/coronavirus
Subscribe for Podcast and other notifications
https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/podcast
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today, Will Hooke is speaking about Office Equipment, and how getting good equipment will improve your work-life, which will improve all of your life. That is quite a big claim, but if you listen as to why, you might just agree!
Key Takeaway: Investing in your health & productivity, through good equipment, will change your life.
Helpful links:
• Chair $297: https://www.officeworks.com.au/shop/officeworks/p/professional-ergonomic-extra-heavy-duty-mesh-chair-black-jbprofmbbk
• Memory Foam cushion $65 (if getting a new chair is too awkward): https://www.officeworks.com.au/shop/officeworks/p/kensington-memory-foam-seat-rest-kenmemseat
• Carpet protecting matt: https://www.officeworks.com.au/shop/officeworks/search?q=floor%20matt&view=grid&page=1&sortBy=prod-product-wc-bestmatch-personal
• Mouse $59: https://www.officeworks.com.au/shop/officeworks/p/logitech-gaming-mouse-g300s-inlog300gm
• Mousepad $49: https://www.centrecom.com.au/logitech-g640-cloth-gaming-mousepad-large
• Microsoft Ergonomic keyboard (hard to find in Australia now...) $90: https://www.microsoft.com/en-au/p/natural-ergonomic-keyboard-4000/8xlw43x19hnt?activetab=pivot:overviewtab
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More pixels per area makes a better screen: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Retina_display
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Screen resolution: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Display_resolution
• 240V ethernet adaptors $78: https://www.officeworks.com.au/shop/officeworks/p/tp-link-av600-nano-powerline-adaptor-starter-kit-tl-pa411kit-tptlpa411
• Webcam $215: https://www.officeworks.com.au/shop/officeworks/p/logitech-webcam-c930e-loc930eweb
• External Hard-drive 2 TB $89: https://www.officeworks.com.au/shop/officeworks/p/toshiba-2tb-canvio-basics-portable-hard-drive-black-tobacv2tb
**All of these prices were correct at time of publishing. Please shop around, as well as trying these things in store, these are simply examples of what we bought. :)
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So the ladies from #TeamSavvy aka Angie Martin, Maia Coghlan and Amy Hooke were in the middle of a team meeting. When they decided to go live and chat with YOU! We know things are crazy right now so you'll enjoy this little brain break with the ladies from The Savvy Bookkeeper. And we'll fill you in on what's coming up for savvy, including our latest podcast, coworking groups and more.
Key Takeaway: We're here to help. And we can also distract you and make your day better!
Helpful links: The Savvy Bookkeeper Facebook Group
https://www.facebook.com/groups/thesavvybookkeeper/
Navigating Coronavirus Coworking Groups
https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/coronavirus
Let's Chat & Coffee Catch Ups
https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/coffee
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
"In the last episode of The Bookkeepers Voice, Amy Hooke spoke with The Savvy Bookkeeper’s Client Relationship Manager, Angie Martin, about all things Sales Strategies.
Since there was so much valuable information discussed and a real insight into how passionate the team at The Savvy Bookkeeper are about the growth of start-ups and small to medium businesses we decided to come back and continue our discussion about Sales & Marketing.
During this episode Angie and Amy are going to review the importance of sales follow ups and being successfully found online. Prepare yourself bookkeepers, there are going to be a few fun #truthbombs discussed in this episode!
Key Takeaway: 'Your in-charge of following up with your clients to help them success so you can succeed.'
Helpful Links:
Sell Your Value Masterclass: https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/sales-pitch-masterclass
Free Introductory Learn Your Value Mentoring Session with Angie Martin: https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/freestrategy
Business Plan Template: https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/getbusinessplan/
Business Planning Webinar: https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/bookkeeping-business-plan/
• Airtable: https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/airtable ** Affiliate Link
Take Your Bookkeeping Business to the Next Level Blog Post from The Savvy Bookkeeper: https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/marketing-your-bookkeeping-take-your-bookkeeping-business-to-the-next-level/
• Part One – Episode #060 Sales Strategy Part 1 Creating Your Sales Strategy With Angie Martin https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/Podcast/bookkeeping-marketing-sales-strategy-part-1-creating-your-sales-strategy-with-angie-martin/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Did you know that having strong alignment between your sales and marketing strategies will help you bring in high quality clients?
Many bookkeepers don’t fully realise how powerful a sales and marketing strategy can be, let alone know how to create one. So, this week Amy Hooke has invited The Savvy Bookkeeper’s very own Client Relationship Manager, Angie Martin, to help you sell your value.
During this episode Angie and Amy will talk through all what a sales strategy is and why it’s so important to have one for your bookkeeping business.
Get ready listeners, the curtain is about the be drawn back. You're about to learn how passionate the team at The Savvy Bookkeeper are about growing your business!
Key Takeaway: "A Sales Strategy will give you a clearer picture on how to successfully grow your business."
Helpful Links:
Sell Your Value Masterclass: https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/sales-pitch-masterclass
Free Introductory Learn Your Value Mentoring Session with Angie Martin https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/freestrategy
Business Plan Template: https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/getbusinessplan/
Business Planning Webinar: https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/bookkeeping-business-plan/
BLOG: Take Your Bookkeeping Business to the Next Level https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/marketing-your-bookkeeping-take-your-bookkeeping-business-to-the-next-level/
• Part Two – Episode #061 Strategy Part 2: Follow Ups and Being Found Online with Angie Martin https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/Podcast/marketing-for-bookkeepers-kick-start-your-business-growth-strategy-with-a-sales-strategy-part-2-follow-ups-and-being-found-online-with-angie-martin/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Have you ever found yourself wondering "Why do I never get any calls or new clients from my website?" or "How does SEO even work? Is it some kind of magic that only gifted people can perform? Or can I learn it and DIY?"
Amy Hooke asked herself those very questions - and in her quest, found answers from Writing Entrepreneur and SEO Wonder Woman, Kate Toon. And in this fun episode, Kate will share the answers with you.
Kate Toon's digital education businesses The Recipe for SEO Success and The Clever Copywriting School have helped more than 9000 small business owners grapple the Google beast and write better content.
Key Takeaway: "SEO is not magic, you don't need special juju. It's logical and anyone can learn it."
Helpful links:
Kate Toon's Free SEO Nibbles Course https://therecipeforseosuccess.com/seo-courses/seo-nibbles/
Kate Toon's Recipe for SEO Success
https://therecipeforseosuccess.com/
Confessions of a Misfit Entrepreneur by Kate Toon (Kindle eBook) https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/misfitentrepreneur (affiliate link)
15 Min SEO Consult with Amy Hooke (Bookkeeping Business owners only!) https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/freestrategy/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Most busy people think their problem is not having enough time. But there's something deeper going on which, when addressed, can give you some breathing room.
If you feel like you're 'always busy' or you reach the end of your week and wonder 'Where did it go?' then tune in. Learn 5 practical 'time management' hacks which you can do RIGHT NOW, to create space in your busy week.
Key takeaway: "Time is NOT the real problem, and it's easier to solve than you think."
Useful Links:
Priorities Masterclass - Sign up to secure your spot
Books and Articles:
The Road Less Stupid by Keith J. Cunningham
Finish: Give Yourself the Gift of Done by Jon Acuff
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey
Eisenhower Matrix
Related Episodes:
Episode #053 Is It Time To Quit? 6 Things To Do When You Feel Like Giving Up
Episode #054 Raise Your Professional Success By Understanding Your Personality Type
Episode #055 Create Space In Your Busy Week By Aligning Your Priorities With Your Purpose (Part 1 of 3)
Episode #057 From Confusion To Clarity - Amy's Personal Story of Living with ADHD (Part 2 of 3)
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Have you experienced an invisible struggle? Something which impacted your everyday living which was difficult for others to see or understand? Have you ever had an eye opening experience which changed your life forever?
Join Amy as she shares her personal struggle with a life long neurological condition, which affects her ability to 'focus', create routines and 'get organised'. And how, as a result of her struggle, she has been able to create a life that works. She now uses her bad experience to help and encourage others.
Key takeaway: "Be encouraged. If Amy Hooke can find ways to 'get organised' then ANYONE can"
Links:
Priorities Masterclass - Sign up to secure your spot
4 Weeks to An Organized Life With ADHD by Jeffrey Freed
Related Episodes:
Episode #053 Is It Time To Quit? 6 Things To Do When You Feel Like Giving Up
Episode #054 Raise Your Professional Success By Understanding Your Personality Type
Episode #055 Create Space In Your Busy Week By Aligning Your Priorities With Your Purpose (Part 1 of 3)
Episode #058 Create Space In Your Busy Week By Aligning Your Priorities With Your Purpose (Part 1 of 3)
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week we're interrupting our normal program to help out a fellow bookkeeper, Ryan Gollan. Ryan's wife Fleur is a real fighter, who has been suffering with a rare, lifelong and debilitating condition called Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS). Until now there's been no cure for EDS, but the Gollan's see light at the end of the tunnel!
There is now treatment available at the Spero Clinic in Arkansas, USA. So by raising $50K from their community, Fleur will be able to receive treatment which will allow her to live a normal life.
Please listen to this short episode and consider making a donation on their GoFundMe account.
https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-fleur-get-her-life-back-and-overcome-eds
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Do you or someone you care about struggle with anxiety or depression? Maybe that person is your employee. Or perhaps it's you. In the past, if you were struggling with your mental health at work, you may have had to suffer in silence. But thankfully the conversation around mental health has evolved to include the workplace.
In this episode, Tim Hoopmann, a former bookkeeping business owner who has forged a partnership with Beyond Blue, joins Amy to speak about mental health and resilience.
Through Tim's volunteer work with Beyond Blue, he's given over 30 talks on the topic of building mentally healthy work cultures. As well as working with Beyond Blue in their development of resources and support specifically for our industry.
Key takeaway: "Whether you working solo or with a team, there are things you can do to monitor and improve your mental health. And you're not alone."
Shared links:
Register to hear Tim Hoopmann speak at the Accounting Business Expo 24-25 March 2020
https://secure.terrapinn.com/V5/step1.aspx?E=10138&p=1&_ga=2.243470213.1623548591.1581905464-1896775626.1581905464
Beyond Blue National 24/7 Helpline
If you're struggling with your mental health, or know someone who is, you can call 1300 224 636 to speak to a psychologist or start an online chat conversation.
https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support/national-help-lines-and-websites
Healthy Workplace Resources for Small Business
https://www.headsup.org.au/healthy-workplaces/for-small-businesses
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Most busy people think their problem is not having enough time. But there's something deeper going on which, when addressed, can give you some breathing room.
If you feel like you're 'always busy' or you reach the end of your week and wonder 'Where did it go?' then tune in. Learn 7 core truths about 'time management' which must be established before you can create space in your busy week.
Key takeaway: "Time is NOT the real problem, and it's easier to solve than you think."
Useful Links:
Episode #053 Is It Time To Quit? 6 Things To Do When You Feel Like Giving Up
Episode #054 Raise Your Professional Success By Understanding Your Personality Type
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Amy has always loved to break the stereotype that bookkeepers are a bunch of 'cardigan wearers'. Despite what some people think, not all bookkeepers are shy, introverted, analytical people who get excited about deadlines and compliance.
In 2020, bookkeepers come in a rainbow of colours, and beige is no longer one of them! Now more than ever, it's important to understand where you fit into the 16-Personalities matrix (aka MTBI or Myers-Briggs Type Indicator). This will allow you to know your strengths and work with them, making better hiring decisions and understanding your clients more deeply.
Key takeaway: "If you think you need to have a certain personality because you're a bookkeeper, it's not true! You don't need to fit a mould. You just need to be YOU."
Useful links:
Truity - The 4 Letters of Myers & Briggs' Personality Types
16 Personalities - Free Personality Test
Episode #053 Is It Time To Quit? 6 Things To Do When You Feel Like Giving Up
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Are you really cut out for a career in professional bookkeeping? Regardless of how experienced or talented we are, or how long we’ve been in the game - we all wonder "do I have what it takes to succeed". And we even experience thoughts of quitting at some point. So, how do you know when it’s really time to quit?
In this episode, Amy Hooke shares her experience of wanting to quit, and her learnings gleaned from “The Dip” by Seth Godin and “Turning Pro” by Stephen Pressfield, which helped her press on. Learn how to navigate ‘quitting’ by setting ground rules for ‘playing the game’ of business.
The real message of this episode is: Learning to be a professional quitter might just save your business.
Useful links:
Books referred to;
“The Dip” by Seth Godin
“Turning Pro” by Stephen Pressfield
Join a community and get connected:
I <3 Bookkeeping (The Savvy Bookkeeper) Facebook Group
I <3 Payroll (Payroll Providers Australia) Facebook Group
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It’s that ONE THING we all love to hate! Whether you love it, or hate it. If you're a bookkeeper, there's not really anyway around providing this service. So how can we reduce our stress about payroll?
In this informative episode, Amy outlines 4 main areas bookkeepers can brush up their payroll skills.
Key Message: "You don't need to KNOW everything to be an EXPERT if you have support, communication skills, processes and are willing to learn."
Useful Links:
I <3 Payroll (Payroll Providers Australia) Facebook Group
https://www.facebook.com/groups/payrollaustralia/
Fairwork Online Learning Centre
https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/fairwork
Outliers: The Story of Success by Malcolm Gladwell (Affiliate link - Book Amy Mentions Regarding 10,000 Hours Needed To Become An Expert)
https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/10000hours
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
If you discover an unregistered bookkeeper providing BAS related services, should you dob them in? And what CAN an unregistered bookkeeper legally provide anyway?
In an insightful episode Amy shares her personal experience, along with her professional opinion about when, why and how to report unregistered bookkeepers to the Tax Practitioners' Board.
The real message of this episode is: "As professionals we need to educate ourselves and others. And when we speak the truth, let's do it with empathy and good motives."
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When a client reacts emotionally to 'bill shock' it can hurt our feelings, pride, our financial security and sense of personal value. We need a safe place to ask for help and relieve frustrations. But is making fun of clients in private Facebook Groups a temporary fix to a bigger, more serious issue?
In this gutsy episode, Amy Hooke puts her professional reputation on the line, by exposing a toxic culture in online bookkeeping and accounting communities.
The real message of this episode is: "Mushrooms may look pretty, but they are poisonous and deadly. And in the same way, making fun of clients appears like harmless relief, but it's toxic for our communities in the long term."
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this refreshing episode, Lielette Calleja, Direct or All That Counts, speaks to Amy Hooke about overcoming the animosity between bookkeepers and accountants.
Lielette shows us how, as bookkeepers, we can turn one of our biggest pain-points into a solution. Her perspective is grounded her intense love of small business, which started back in her youth, growing up in a family business; a passion that has been solidified during her 15 years as a Sydney-based bookkeeping practice.
In the past decade we've seen massive changes in the world of SMEs, and there's been a shift in the dynamics between business owners, and their bookkeepers and accountants. Lielette shares her insights on how you can bring out the very best in your relationship with your clients' accountants.
The real story of this episode is "Enough is enough with bookkeeper vs accountant debate. We can each find our value by shifting our focus away from ‘the power struggle’ and onto serving and educating the clients."
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this month’s update on The Bookkeeping Project, Amy gives the inside details of lead generation and sales processes at Off The Hook Bookkeeping.
She shares how she brought in a large number of leads this month, and emphasises how important it is to follow your sales process.
The real message of this episode is: “Don’t cut corners to save time because you’ll pay in other ways!”
Mentioned links: Podcast Episode #17 - Website Basics Part 1 Podcast Episode #18 - Website Basics Part 2 Blog Post - Website Basics Mini Guide Sign up for the Bookkeeping Health Check Masterclass Go on the waitlist to get the Marketing Email Sequence Template
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Last week, Amy headed down to Accountech to facilitate four Intuit Table Talks on her favorite topic; pricing! A group of bookkeepers and accountants got together to chat about common issues, raised questions, shared ideas and compared strategies about how to reduce non-billable time.
All who attended came away with new learnings, things to try and ways to look at things. In this episode, Amy summarises the key takeaways that emerged across the four groups and shows you how YOU can approach the issue of un-billable time and write-offs in your own bookkeeping business, whether you're on hourly billing, packages or a hybrid combo of both.
Useful links
Teamwork | Project Management, Helpdesk Software, CRM and Chat*
https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/teamwork
Health Check Masterclass | Scope Jobs Accurately and Quote Quickly
https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/healthcheck
Integrapay | Direct Debit and Automated Payments*
https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/integrapay
*These are partner affiliate links, which means if you purchase a service via these links we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products and platforms that we personally use, have tried and trust.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Accountech Live is a relatively new convention for companies to showcase their software solutions, and promote their services to bookkeepers and accountants. It's free entry, but is it worth the time and effort. Accountech Live promises great speakers, 16 hours CPE, and plenty to see-and-do for those in the profession.
In this episode, Amy shares her experience, plus her honest opinion and recommendation, as well as her highlights and disappointments from the day, to help you decide if you'll bother to go next year.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Melbourne-based Web Developer, James Gatward and IT Provider, Peter Nelson worked on a number of projects together. As things were changing dramatically in the Web Design and IT space, they realised it was the perfect time to start a business together. Urban IT Services, is an IT Support and Managed Services company, which joins the forces of these two down-to-earth guys who truly love helping business with websites and technology.
In this interesting episode, James and Peter share openly with Amy about how offshoring has changed the IT industry. Together they explore helpful ways that bookkeepers can apply the same principles they've used to differentiate themselves so they don't have to compete on price.
Useful links
Connect with Peter Nelson on LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-nelson-87631633/
Connect with James Gatward on LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jgatward/
Join James & Peters Facebook group: IT Business Help Melbourne and Australia
https://www.facebook.com/groups/327804781174531/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How do you catch the eye of a potential business, and make sure that they choose you, over every other bookkeeping business out there? One word: branding! Read on for more on how to brand YOUR business for success.
Amy covers 5 key areas where you can improve your branding message by understanding your competitors, differentiating yourself, creating a niche and updating your website.
Useful links:
Liveplan Business Plan and Advisory tool that Amy uses herself and with clients
https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/liveplan
Business Plan Template (free)
https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/businessplan
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Have you ever struggled with finding (or keeping) the right staff? Well, keep listening for loads of expert advice on the topic. In this throwback episode [2017], Sophie Hossack generously gives her time to share deeply insightful and practical ideas on how bookkeepers can approach develop their team and build a great company culture.
What makes Sophie an expert? Well, in the UK, back in 2011, Sophie was the first employee to ever join Receipt Bank (a company that now employs over 250 people!). Sophie came to Australia to help found the Australian branch and spent 7 years Managing a team of over 30 employees. In 2018 Sophie returned to the UK, and is now working in the health industry.
Although she no longer works for Receipt Bank she has left her mark on the hearts of those in the Australian bookkeeping industry. Now, she’s here to share her knowledge again in this special episode of The Bookkeeper’s Voice.
Useful links:
Get first 2 months at 50% when you join the Receipt Bank partner program for bookkeepers and accountants: https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/receiptbank
To listen to Part 1 where Sophie spoke about asking for referrals from accountants and clients: http://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/039
Subscribe to podcast on your regular app, or to get email notifications visit our Podcast page: https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/podcast/
Don't forget to post a review on your podcast app to receive Amy's Health Check / Job Scope templates.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this month's episode of The Bookkeeper's Voice, Amy shares her journey in developing growing compassion for small business owners with small budgets.
She talks about her journey of going against the industry grain, which pressures bookkeepers to put up their fees. Amy opens up about her experiences and challenges that led her to lower her own bookkeeping fees below the industry average and how it's not all about "charging what you deserve".
The real message of this story is: "It's our industry and our clients are the reason we are in business, so it's important to take care of small business."
Useful Links:
Bookkeeping Health Check Masterclass (Packages Start At $50+GST): https://savvy.thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/bookkeeping-health-check-masterclass
Episode #034 Why Bookkeepers Should Outsource Their Business Bookkeeping: https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/Podcast/episode-34-why-bookkeepers-should-outsource-their-business-bookkeeping/
Initial Consult Form & New Client Form (FREE): AMhttps://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/initialconsultform
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In the UK, back in 2011, Sophie was the first employee to ever join Receipt Bank, a company that now employs over 250 people. Sophie came to Australia to help found the Australian branch and spent 7 years Managing a team of over 30 employees. In 2018 Sophie returned to the UK, and is now working in the health industry. Although she no longer works for Receipt Bank she has left her mark on the hearts of those in the Australian bookkeeping industry.
In this throwback episode [2017], originally a recorded webinar, Sophie generously gave her time to share insightful and practical ideas on how bookkeepers can approach accountants (and clients) to ask for referrals.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Everyone is under a lot of pressure to GROW their business. But growing a business isn’t for everyone! So, if you've decided NOT to grow, what else could you spend your time focusing on instead?
In this week's insightful episode, Amy defines what 'growing your business' IS and what it ISN'T. She then goes on to detail 9 areas you can focus on instead.
The real message of this episode is "There is a season for everything, and if this season is NOT for growing there's plenty of other great things you can do instead!"
Useful links
Podcast Transcript
Episode #036 Top 4 Ways To Boost Your Bookkeeping Business Profit
The Bookkeeping Project Episode 7: (Amy shares about her “almost” burnout)
Episode #037 Leveraging Social Technology (Samuel Burmeister from Tall Books)
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In an inspiring episode, Amy interviews fellow bookkeeper Samuel Burmeister, a bookkeeper who is crushing it in the digital space. It’s easy to see how Samuel won MYOB’s Young Bookkeep of the Year 2018 and how he has grown his business in just 3 years.
Listen in as Samuel unfolds his interesting journey, from being a musician working in the fashion industry, through becoming a MYOB call centre rep, to finally becoming a qualified bookkeeper and the owner of Tall Books, an online bookkeeping practice that is leveraging social platforms and online marketplaces.
The real message behind Samuel’s story is “Focus on benefits over price, don’t judge by appearances, and always look to the bigger opportunities behind a seeming low priced offer."
Useful links
Tall Books YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqDJeUT8ulbVema4kPnaLEg
Tall Books Facebook Page: facebook.com/tallbooks
Samuel Burmeister LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/samuel-burmeister-859656107/
Loom (Screen Recording)
AirTasker: https://www.airtasker.com/
Gumtree: https://www.gumtree.com.au/
TrueCaller: https://www.truecaller.com/
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In this month's episode of The Bookkeeping Project, Amy share's her advisory process; all the way from initial consult, health check and proposal. Covering in detail the advisory session topics, Amy explains the importance of exploration with the client through asking questions and listening.
The real message of this episode is "Technical skills aren't enough on their own, you need to blend you skills with empathy that comes from real-life experience and application.
Useful links:
Mentioned Episode #030 Repositioning Yourself As A Small Business Advisor With Kathy Gregory
https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/Podcast/podcast-small-business-advisor-kathy-gregory-liveplan-method/
Join The Bookkeeping Project
https://thesavvybookkeeper.com.au/community/
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There’s been quite a buzz in the bookkeeping industry for many years, about growing your business. But many bookkeepers actually feel overwhelmed by the pressure and complications that comes with business growth.
If you think that the only way to boost your business profit is through growth, then you definitely need to take a listen to this episode. In it, Amy talks about the top 4 ways to boost the profitability of your bookkeeping business, in clear actionable ways that will can work for YOUR business.
Useful Links:
Want to be part of Pricing for Profit? Click here to RESERVE your spot
If you still need a little more information, Click here to learn more about Pricing for Profit!
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With more than 500 articles on B2B selling, Tony J. Hughes founder of RSVP Selling is insightful, and genuinely brilliant when it comes to sales.
In this episode of The Bookkeeper’s Voice, Tony spoke to our listeners (the bookkeeping community) about how vital it is to understand their ideal customer profile, develop a personal brand and continually develop their sales pipeline.
It's not surprising that Tony, the 'most read person on LinkedIn on the topic of B2B selling', and 'best-selling author' on the topic of sales, imparted truckloads of valuable knowledge gained from three decades of record breaking performance and business leadership experience.
If you’ve want expert insight and tried-and-tested sales tips that 'pack a punch', then listen in!
Useful Links
Connect with Tony on LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/hughestony/
Article: Creating an Awesome LinkedIn Profile
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/creating-awesome-linkedin-profile-tony-j-hughes/
Example of a Great LinkedIn profile by an Accountant Bookkeeper - Debra Anderson:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/andersondebra/
Tony’s Blog RSVP Selling
https://www.rsvpselling.com/blog-tony-hughes-strategic-selling
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Does the thought of outsourcing your bookkeeping make you cringe, or give you anxiety? Don't worry...plenty of bookkeepers feel that way!
But, what if by outsourcing you could focus on the tasks you LOVE, and spend time actually growing your business?
In this weeks Podcast episode, Amy discusses the top THREEE reasons why she believes bookkeepers (in the Full up and Move up stage of business) should strongly consider outsourcing their bookkeeping.
She also chats about creating transparency and accountability with your clients and staff, maintaining your integrity and making sure you practice what you preach! Listen in to disover how to create freedom inside your business (and so much more).
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Have you ever believed something about yourself, then later discovered you were wrong?! If so, you're not alone.
In this honest episode Amy opens up about some personal struggles she's experienced in the past few months (and how some timely advice came from a colleague who recovered from burn-out through self-care).
The key message of this episode is, “If you're going to be in business for a long time, you need to prioritise self care! There is no business without you.”
Useful links Join Our Upcoming Job Scope & Health Check Masterclass Organise Your Business in Airtable Join The Bookkeeping Project
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Is there anything worse than the horrible guilty feeling you get when you're invoicing the clients for work you've actually done? Do you find yourself writing off time because you feel bad for invoicing clients or following up bad debts?
Your guilt and fear around invoicing and chasing owed monies, doesn't just cost you financially! Yes, it costs you in a loss of profit, but even worse is the negative effect on your self-respect.
In this episode, you'll learn the best 5 things YOU can do to overcome invoicing guilt and fear and help you step into being the self-respecting, courageous business owner you were meant to be.
Useful Links
Pricing Mistakes Mini free mini-course
Pricing Fundamentals 1 hr DIY training and templates
Pricing Project - done for you pricing set up and support
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There's some key, frequently asked question by pre-start up bookkeepers in our industry around the 'Catch 22' of having no experience. New bookkeepers, who have yet to get experience, often struggle to get their foot in the door. In this episode, Amy goes into detail and talks about the top three ways an inexperienced bookkeeper can start to get experience.
The key message of this episode is, “A bookkeeping career that will last always needs to built on a strong foundation!”
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There’s plenty of discussion in the accounting industry about the role of bookkeepers, and whether they can (or should) act in an Advisory role in a business. In this episode, Amy chats with Kathy Gregory, Director of Strategic Relationships at LivePlan. Together they dive into what the advisory role is about, re-aligning business owners’ expectations and the very special role that bookkeepers play in a business. The key message of this episode is, “Bookkeepers are already trusted advisors with their clients, so step into and embrace your God-given role!”
Useful links Check out Kathy’s Training Page Take a look at Kathy’s Resource Guides Get help Pricing Your Advisory services - book a Free consult with Amy Hooke Read transcript here
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If you’ve felt overwhelmed trying to optimise your workflow (or your team), then this episode is definitely for you.In it, Amy talks about the quest for the perfect workflow and touches on some of the challenges of building a team.The key message of this episode is, “A little bit of perfectionism is cool, but too much will send you backwards.”
Useful links Join Pricing Webinar - Job Scope & Health Check Organise Stuff With Airtable Join The Bookkeeping Project Read transcript here
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