Ah, Valentine’s Day—Let’s face it, keeping the romance alive in any relationship is a balancing act, and the one between clients and bookkeepers is no exception. While it may not involve roses or chocolates, it does require care, communication, and a touch of common sense. So, if you want to avoid breaking your bookkeeper’s heart (and maybe your bank account too), here’s your guide to the dos and don’ts of keeping things balanced this Valentine’s Day—and beyond.
DON’T:
- Don’t Send Blurry JPEGs (no one likes a love letter they can’t read)
If you’re sending supporting documents, make sure they’re clear and legible! Blurry JPEGs are a recipe for confusion, and nobody wants to decipher a fuzzy picture of receipts instead of a smooth financial process. - Don’t Send PDF Versions of Spreadsheets (this isn’t a mystery novel)
If you’ve got spreadsheets, keep them in their original format. PDFs can be tricky to work with and make it harder for your bookkeeper to dig into the details. Keep it simple and send the editable files! - Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute (this is no time for ghosting)
Don’t leave your bookkeeper hanging—don’t wait until the day before taxes are due to send over everything they need. Ghosting your bookkeeper is a surefire way to ruin the relationship. - Don’t Expect ‘Free’ Love (you get what you pay for)
If you want top-notch bookkeeping services, don’t expect to pay pennies and get diamonds in return. The best relationships are built on respect—pay what you owe, and you’ll both benefit in the long run.
DO:
- Do Communicate Regularly (but don’t be too clingy)
Keep the love alive with clear and timely communication! Let your bookkeeper know about any changes to your financial situation. Just remember, “I miss you” texts at 3 a.m. are reserved for significant others, not your bookkeeper. - Do Keep Your Receipts Organized (think of it like a love letter)
Your bookkeeper doesn’t want to play detective. Organize your receipts and paperwork, so they can help you out without needing to search through piles of “lost love letters” (aka, crumpled receipts). - Do Show Appreciation (without overspending)
A little thank you goes a long way. A heartfelt note or a small token of appreciation can make your bookkeeper’s day. But let’s be real, no one wants to receive a gift card to a “dine-in” fast food joint—opt for something thoughtful, not overpriced. - Do Set Realistic Expectations (like a good date night plan)
Bookkeepers love when clients understand timelines. Keep things realistic—don’t expect miracles if you’re handing over a shoebox of receipts just before tax season starts. Give them time to work their magic
Remember, a successful relationship with your bookkeeper is all about respect, communication, and a little bit of effort. Just like with other relationships, these efforts are needed consistently, not just on one “special” day each year. The same goes for your relationship with your bookkeeper. By following these dos and don’ts, you’ll not only avoid breaking any hearts—but you’ll also ensure your financial matters run as smoothly as a well-planned date night. So, show your bookkeeper some love by keeping things organized, transparent, and timely. After all, when the numbers add up, everyone wins!
