How to Attract More Clients Without Feeling Like a Salesperson
Promoting your bookkeeping business isn’t about crossing your fingers and hoping for the best. It’s more like a game of chess: Making smart, strategic moves that position you as the go-to expert for businesses that need help managing their finances.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to scale your bookkeeping business, these marketing tactics will help you attract and retain clients — and without feeling like a pushy salesperson.
The Website That Works While You Crunch Numbers
Key Elements Your Site Needs
Your website isn’t an online business card; it should be a tireless marketing machine that works even when you’re busy crunching numbers. A well-optimized bookkeeper website needs just a few key elements:
- A crystal-clear value proposition
- An intuitive, easy-to-navigate structure
- A compelling call-to-action (CTA) on every page
It’s no secret that human attention spans have drastically dropped in recent history. So it stands to reason you need to grab your site visitors’ attention fast.
- Start with a homepage that answers, “What do you do, and why should I choose you?” in five seconds or less
- Showcase testimonials, display your expertise with well-placed trust signals (certifications, associations, and awards)
- Make your contact information ridiculously easy to find (we recommend having your phone number in both your top navigation and footer, as well as a contact form on every page)
A blog or resource section can establish your authority while boosting your SEO (more on that later). And for the love of efficiency for your existing clients, include an online scheduling tool (because nobody likes an endless game of telephone to set up a quarterly review meeting).
Social Media Without the Overwhelm
Choosing the Right Platform & Content for Bookkeepers
You don’t need to be everywhere all at once; you just need to be where your ideal clients are spending time. Here are some quick tips to help you figure out where to spend your time on social media:
- If your clientele leans toward SMB or enterprise business owners, LinkedIn is your best bet
- If you serve freelancers and solopreneurs, you can bet they’ll be on Instagram and Facebook Groups
- If you’re looking expand your reach to small business owners or startups, Reddit and TikTok can be golden opportunities
Rather than chasing trends or doing your version of the latest “TikTok dance,” focus your social content around building trust and educating your audience — and keep your marketing simple. Share quick money-saving tips, debunk common financial myths, or post “client wins” (with permission, of course). Short videos explaining complex bookkeeping concepts in plain English can work wonders for engagement and new lead generation.
And let’s not forget the power of repurposing. One well-crafted social post can be turned into a blog, a marketing email, and a few new social media posts — saving you time while maximizing reach using content you already know your audience wants.
Using Email Marketing as a Bookkeeping Business
How to Stay Top-of-Mind Without Being Annoying
Email marketing is far from dead; it’s actually one of the highest ROI tactics available. The secret? Deliver value, not just promotions.
- A monthly or biweekly email newsletter filled with snack-sized financial insights, tax deadlines, or “what to do before tax season” topics keep you in your clients’ inboxes (and minds) without being intrusive
- Automate follow-up emails to new leads with a short welcome sequence that introduces your services in a non-pushy way
- And always segment your list to make sure your messaging is on point for the professional receiving it; sending freelancers the exact same email as a brick-and-mortar business owner is a surefire way to lose engagement
SEO for Bookkeepers
How to Create a Strong Foundation for Getting Found Online
SEO (search engine optimization) might sound intimidating, but for bookkeepers, it boils down to a few fundamentals. Local SEO is your best friend, so make sure your Google Business Profile is complete and optimized with accurate contact info, services, and client reviews.
Use keywords that potential clients actually search for, like “small business bookkeeping services” or “affordable accountant near me.” Write blog posts answering common questions, such as “What expenses can I deduct as a freelancer?”
The goal isn’t to go viral; it’s to become the trusted bookkeeping expert who shows up when someone Googles, “Help! I have no idea how to do my books.”
Networking Done Right
How to Build Relationships Without Feeling Salesy
Networking doesn’t have to mean having awkward conversations or forced elevator pitches. Instead of trying to “sell,” focus on educating and providing value. Some examples you can try:
- Nerd out on bookkeeping: Attend industry-specific events or meetups, join online communities where your ideal clients hang out, and engage in discussions without immediately pitching your services
- Partner with complementary service providers: Such as business coaches or virtual assistants, as these can lead to new referrals
- Offer free workshops or webinars: Providing education and your expertise in this way can also position you as the go-to expert without feeling pushy
The golden rule of networking? Build relationships first, and the business will follow.
Get Help from a Bookkeeper Marketing Agency
When done right, bookkeeper marketing doesn’t have to be overwhelming or feel icky. By focusing on a high-functioning website designed for lead gen, smart social media, strategic email marketing, SEO, and genuine networking, you can attract the right clients without feeling like a used car salesman. And that’s a win for everyone.
But we know that’s all easier said than done; you don’t have to do it alone. Boost Local is here to promote your bookkeeping business, generate more leads, and help take you to the next level with our all-in-one marketing and sales ops services. Contact us today to get started!
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