The Bookkeepers' Voice

Having a voice is about so much more than talking, or even communicating. Finding your voice is about walking the difficult but rewarding path from being invisible, silenced and ashamed, to being heard, understood, and seen. 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 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 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. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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." Useful Links: Savvy Business Plan Free Resource - 5 Step Guide to Creating Your Digital Presence Free Resource - 30 Day Instagram Story Planner Free Resource - Tools to Create Better Instagram Stories Training - Savvy Instagram Style Guide Training - Bookkeepers Guide to Instagram Stories Template - Airtable Social Media Planner   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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

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   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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

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 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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". See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

​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 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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

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/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.