Why Doesn’t My Bookkeeper Speak to Me?

If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “Why doesn’t my bookkeeper reach out to me?”, you’re not alone. Many business owners feel disconnected from their bookkeepers, leading to frustration and uncertainty about their finances. But is the silence intentional? Or is it just a symptom of how bookkeepers and clients typically interact?

Here are some common reasons why your bookkeeper might seem quiet and what you can do about it.

1. They’re Task-Oriented, Not Relationship-Oriented

Bookkeepers are trained to focus on getting things done. Filing your returns, balancing your accounts, and ensuring compliance are all critical tasks that require precision and focus. However, building a relationship with clients isn’t always their top priority.

Why This Happens

Bookkeepers often have large workloads and tight deadlines, leaving little time for proactive communication. They may assume you’ll reach out if you need something.

What You Can Do

Be clear about your expectations. Let your bookkeeper know you value regular updates and would appreciate proactive communication. A simple conversation can set the tone for better interaction moving forward.

2. They Assume No News Is Good News

In the accounting world, silence often means everything is running smoothly. If there are no major issues, your bookkeeper might not see a reason to reach out.

Why This Happens

Many bookkeepers work under the assumption that their role is to handle problems, not to check in when things are going well. They might think you prefer less communication.

What You Can Do

Ask for monthly or quarterly check-ins, even if there’s nothing to report. A monthly or quarterly update can give you peace of mind and help you stay engaged with your finances.

3. Communication Styles Differ

Bookkeepers are often detail-oriented and analytical, while business owners are more focused on big-picture strategy. These differing mindsets can lead to a communication gap.

Why This Happens

Your bookkeeper might assume you’re not interested in the nitty-gritty details, so they don’t share unless it’s absolutely necessary. Alternatively, they may struggle to explain complex financial concepts in plain language.

What You Can Do

Be upfront about your preferred communication style. Do you want detailed explanations or just a quick summary? Do you prefer emails, phone calls, or face-to-face meetings? Setting these preferences can bridge the gap.

4. They’re Reactive, Not Proactive

Some bookkeepers work in a reactive mode, addressing issues only when they arise. While this approach gets the job done, it can leave clients feeling ignored or out of the loop.

Why This Happens

Being proactive requires time and effort, and not all bookkeepers have the capacity to reach out regularly. They may also assume you’ll contact them if something’s on your mind.

What You Can Do

If proactivity is important to you, discuss this during your next meeting. Ask your bookkeeper to flag potential opportunities or challenges before they become urgent.

5. There’s a Lack of Alignment on Roles

Sometimes, the problem lies in misaligned expectations. You might see your bookkeeper as a financial advisor or business consultant, while they see their role as purely compliance-focused.

Why This Happens

The scope of an bookkeeper’s role can vary widely. Some bookkeepers stick strictly to tax and bookkeeping tasks, while others offer broader financial guidance. If the scope hasn’t been clearly defined, misunderstandings can arise.

What You Can Do

Clarify the scope of their services. If you’re looking for more strategic advice or hands-on planning, let them know. If they can’t provide these services, they might be able to refer you to someone who can.

6. You Haven’t Built a Two-Way Relationship

Strong communication is a two-way street. If you only reach out to your bookkeeper when there’s an issue, they might not feel encouraged to initiate conversations.

Why This Happens

Bookkeepers often work behind the scenes, so they might not feel the need to check in unless you’ve expressed interest in building a relationship.

What You Can Do

Make an effort to connect. Schedule regular meetings, ask questions, and show interest in their expertise. Building rapport can go a long way in fostering better communication.

If your bookkeeper isn’t speaking to you as much as you’d like, it’s usually not personal. The key is to address the communication gap head-on. Be clear about your expectations, ask for more regular updates, and take steps to build a stronger relationship.

Remember, your bookkeeper is there to support your business. By opening the lines of communication, you’ll not only get the insights you need but also turn them into a trusted partner in your financial success.