Bookkeeping is a career that requires both technical knowledge and hands-on experience. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your skills, finding the right bookkeeping mentor can make all the difference in your growth and confidence.

A great mentor helps you navigate doubts, provides real-world advice, and shares lessons learned from years of experience.

But how do you find the right person to guide you?

This blog post will explore why mentorship is important, where to find a qualified mentor, and how to ensure you’re getting the best guidance.

Why Bookkeepers Need a Mentor

Many bookkeepers struggle with self-doubt, especially when they start working with clients. Questions like “Am I doing this right?” or “Is there a better way?” can hold you back. Having an experienced mentor can provide reassurance and guidance, helping you avoid costly mistakes.

Here are some key benefits of finding the right bookkeeping mentor:

• Learn from Real-World Experience – A mentor has already faced the challenges you’re encountering and can provide practical advice.
• Gain Confidence – Having someone validate your work and answer questions can help you feel more secure in your abilities.
• Avoid Costly Mistakes – Instead of learning by trial and error, you get direct guidance to prevent common pitfalls.
• Stay Up to Date – A good mentor keeps up with industry changes and can help you adjust your processes accordingly.
• Expand Your Network – Mentors often introduce you to valuable contacts and resources in the bookkeeping world.

No matter how much bookkeeping knowledge you gain through courses, real-world experience is different. That’s why having a mentor who has “been there and done that” is invaluable.

How to Find the Right Bookkeeping Mentor

Not all mentors are created equal.

Some people are eager to help but may not have the experience to guide you properly. Others may be experienced but not the right fit for your learning style.

Here’s how to ensure you’re finding the right bookkeeping mentor:

1. Look for Someone with Practical Experience

Your mentor should have real-world bookkeeping experience, not just theoretical knowledge. They should have worked with multiple clients, handled various accounting challenges, and dealt with tax compliance, payroll, and other complex bookkeeping issues.

Where to Look:

• Experienced bookkeepers in your professional network
• Bookkeeping coaches or consultants
• Accounting firms with mentorship programs
• Industry experts who offer training

2. Avoid Relying Solely on Online Forums

Online bookkeeping forums (such as Facebook groups or Reddit) can be helpful, but they also come with risks.

Many well-meaning individuals offer advice, but not all of it is accurate. Just because someone confidently answers a question doesn’t mean they have the right experience.

Before following advice, ask yourself:

• Does this person have professional credibility?
• Have they demonstrated expertise in bookkeeping?
• Can their advice be verified through trusted sources?

3. Consider Formal Coaching Programs

If you’re struggling to find a mentor informally, structured coaching programs can be a great alternative. Some experienced bookkeepers offer one-on-one coaching or group training to level up your skills.

Trusted Bookkeeping Mentors & Programs:

• Rachel Barnett (Gentle Frog) – That’s me! I specialize in QuickBooks training and bookkeeping business coaching.
• Becky Frampton (Pachira Coaching Collective) – Group coaching that guides bookkeepers through achieving their professional and personal goals.
• Veronica Wasek (5-Minute Bookkeeping) – Focuses on eCommerce bookkeeping.
• Seth David (Nerd Enterprises) – Offers courses and the 97 & Up mastermind group.
• Mark Wickersham (Value Pricing Academy)– Teaches value pricing for bookkeepers and accountants.

4. Ask for Recommendations

One of the best ways to find the right bookkeeping mentor is through word-of-mouth. If you’re part of an industry group, ask others who they have learned from and if they would recommend a specific mentor.

Places to Ask for Recommendations:

• LinkedIn bookkeeping and accounting groups
• Facebook groups like Gentle Frog’s Bookkeeping Lily Pad
• Local bookkeeping meetups or networking events

5. Check Reviews & Testimonials

If someone offers bookkeeping training or mentorship services, look for reviews and testimonials before signing up. Be cautious of expensive programs with little to no feedback from past participants.

How to Verify a Mentor’s Credibility:

• Check their LinkedIn profile – Do they have relevant experience?
• Look at online reviews – Are others recommending their services?
• Ask for direct feedback – Talk to past students or clients.

Questions to Ask a Potential Bookkeeping Mentor

Once you’ve found a potential mentor, take time to ensure they’re the right fit. Here are some questions to ask:

• What industries do you specialize in? (e.g., service-based businesses, eCommerce, real estate)
•  Do you focus on QuickBooks Online, QuickBooks Desktop, or another software?
• How do you structure your mentoring? (Casual Q&A, structured training, one-on-one coaching?)
• Can you provide examples of bookkeepers you’ve helped?
• What’s your approach to pricing and client management?

A good mentor will be happy to answer these questions and provide clear expectations about how they can help you.

How to Be a Great Mentee

Finding the right bookkeeping mentor is only half the equation—you also need to be a good mentee.

Here’s how to make the most of the experience:

• Come Prepared – Prepare specific questions so you’re not wasting time.
• Be Open to Feedback – Your mentor may challenge your current methods, but that’s how you grow.
• Take Action – Apply what you learn and follow through on recommendations.
• Respect Their Time – Mentors are busy professionals, so be mindful of their availability.

Mentorship is a two-way relationship. The more effort you put in, the more value you’ll gain.

Final Thoughts on Finding the Right Bookkeeping Mentor

Navigating the world of bookkeeping can feel overwhelming at times, but you don’t have to do it alone. Finding the right bookkeeping mentor can provide you with the confidence, skills, and support needed to succeed.

Key Takeaways:

• Look for mentors with real-world bookkeeping experience.
• Avoid relying solely on Facebook groups and online forums for advice.
• Consider formal coaching programs if you need structured guidance.
• Ask for recommendations and verify credibility before committing.
• Be proactive, open to feedback, and respectful of your mentor’s time.

I love to mentor new bookkeepers. You can schedule a free discovery call with me to discuss your bookkeeping business struggles. If I’m not the right fit, I probably know someone who is.