I’ve been navigating the waters of self-employment as a bookkeeper since 2012.

Throughout these years I’ve explored various marketing avenues. Some conventional, some not so much.

This post isn’t about prescribing a one-size-fits-all solution but sharing real stories from my own life. Some might make you laugh, and others cringe.

My hope is that by the end of this, you’ll have gleaned some insights that resonate with your unique situation.

Starting Out: The Accidental Entrepreneur

My journey into the world of bookkeeping started somewhat accidentally.

Between jobs, I posted a simple ad on Craigslist. Not looking to build a business, but to fill my time without committing long-term.

This led to a gig with a meat and seafood distributor located within a meatpacking plant. A job that extended into a two-year stint due to unexpected circumstances and a client’s request to stay on.

This experience taught me the power of being adaptable and open to opportunities, even in the least expected places.

Early Marketing Moves: Harnessing the Power of Referrals

Initially, I did little to market myself. However, the referrals I received from that first client proved invaluable.

Working directly with small businesses on their accounts receivable and payable opened doors to more clients who appreciated my industry knowledge and personal touch.

This organic growth highlighted the importance of building strong, trust-based relationships with clients. They can become your most effective marketers.

Networking: A Mixed Bag of Experiences

Referrals are great but I knew I should do something more. Joining my city’s Chamber of Commerce seemed like a logical step in actively marketing my services.

It was a traditional move, expected of every serious business. However, the experience was mixed.

While it offered networking opportunities, many interactions felt one-sided. Others seeing me more as a gateway to my clients rather than as a professional in my own right.

Despite this, I found value in smaller, more focused groups where the emphasis was on mutual support rather than just lead generation.

Finding My Tribe: The Value of Community

One of the most transformative aspects of my marketing journey was joining a Seattle-based Meetup group for bookkeepers.

This group wasn’t just about business.

It was about building confidence, friendships, and a community.

We shared knowledge, supported each other’s growth and even ended up with matching tattoos. A testament to the deep bonds formed.

This experience taught me the value of finding a community where you can be both vulnerable and celebrated.

Marketing Through Authenticity and Visibility

As I grew more comfortable in my professional skin, I adopted unique ways to stand out in networking events.

Instead of traditional business attire, I opted for T-shirts with large, visible logos of my business.

This made it easier for people to know who I was and what I did without awkward introductions. It also set the tone for the type of clients I wanted to attract, ones who value substance over style.

Leveraging Modern Platforms

While traditional methods have their place, the digital age offers new avenues for bookkeepers to market themselves.

Creating a strong online presence through social media, a professional website, and engaging content can attract clients nationwide, or even globally.

Additionally, platforms like LinkedIn provide opportunities to connect with other businesses and professionals in a more structured and professional setting than casual meetups.

Crafting Your Own Marketing Path

As bookkeepers, our strength lies in our meticulous nature and our ability to manage details. Traits that can also apply to how we market ourselves.

Whether through direct referrals, networking groups, or online platforms, the key is to find methods that resonate with your personality and professional goals.

Don’t be afraid to try different approaches, learn from each experience, and continually refine your strategy.

Engage with Us

If you’re a bookkeeper struggling with marketing or someone who’s succeeded in carving out a niche, I’d love to hear from you.

Share your stories, tips, or ask questions in the comments below or join our community at Gentle Frog’s Bookkeeping Lily Pad on Facebook.

Together, we can demystify marketing for bookkeepers and build a supportive community.

☕ If you found this helpful you can say “thanks” by buying me a coffee… https://www.buymeacoffee.com/gentlefrog

If you have questions about marketing your bookkeeping busienss click the green button below to schedule a free consultation.