The Unexpected Path to Self-Employment

Many bookkeepers find themselves on the road to self-employment unexpectedly.

Sometimes, you may take on small projects to stay busy, only to discover they grow into something more significant.

For example, early on in my career, I was between jobs and posted an ad on Craigslist. 

This led to a gig with a meat and seafood distributor. Due to unexpected circumstances and the client’s request to stay on, this job was extended into a two-year stint.

The takeaway? Be open to unexpected opportunities; they can shape the foundation of your business.

The Power of Referrals

Referrals can be your greatest asset in the early stages of your business.

By delivering quality work and establishing trust, clients are more likely to recommend you to others in their network.

Initially, I did little to market myself. However, the referrals I received from my 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.

Building strong, genuine relationships with your clients can lead to organic growth, as satisfied customers often become your best advocates.

Consider the impact of providing a personalized touch, understanding their business deeply, and consistently delivering results.

Networking: Finding the Right Fit

Networking is essential, but not every opportunity will feel like a perfect match.

I’ve attended larger events like Chamber of Commerce meetings, only to realize that smaller, more focused groups offer more value.

Connecting with individuals who truly support one another, rather than just seeking leads, can be far more beneficial for personal growth and business expansion.

Seek out groups or communities that align with your values and goals—where you can give as much as you receive.

Finding Your Community: The Power of Support

Building a community of like-minded professionals is invaluable.

Being part of a supportive network can help boost your confidence and provide new learning opportunities.

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 but 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.

Surrounding yourself with people who share your challenges, experiences, and successes fosters collaboration and growth.

A solid network can serve as a professional resource and a personal support system.

Standing Out: Marketing with Authenticity

One of the most effective ways to market yourself is through authenticity.

Instead of trying to fit into traditional molds, consider how you can present your true self and business in a way that reflects your personality.

Whether you wear a branded T-shirt to a networking event or find unconventional ways to share your services.

Being genuine helps attract clients who align with your values.

Marketing isn’t just about visibility—it’s about connecting with the right people.

Modern Marketing Tools

While traditional networking has its place, digital marketing platforms open new doors for growing your bookkeeping business.

Building an online presence through social media, creating engaging content, and maintaining a professional website can help you reach clients beyond your local area.

Platforms like LinkedIn offer the chance to connect with businesses and showcase your expertise.

Think about what digital channels work best for you and your target clients.

Conclusion: Charting Your Own Marketing Path

Every bookkeeper’s marketing journey is different, and that’s okay.

Whether you thrive on referrals, dive into networking events, or explore digital marketing, it’s all about finding what works for you.

Be open to trying new things, learning from experiences, and refining your approach as you grow.

The key is to market in a way that feels authentic to you as a professional.

If you’re a bookkeeper navigating the marketing world or have found success uniquely, we’d love to hear from you.

Share your stories and tips, or ask questions in the comments below.

You can also join the Gentle Frog’s Bookkeeping Lily Pad community on Facebook for support and advice. Let’s demystify marketing for bookkeepers together!