[Question] Apprehensive Clients

[P's & Q's VBS]

I am providing bookkeeping in addition to admin to child care providers and I am hoping to really take off with bookkeeping as it is quite challenging for most folks in business. I am wondering what is everyone doing to handle clients who say that they are more comfortable with someone in office. I mean of course this isn't for everyone. I was just wondering if anyone else has dealt with this as I had a prospect contact me today but really wanted someone to come to her instead of working remotely.

Thanks in advance!

[leedrozak]

I would suggest that you get a solid "security" plan in place. And present that along with why working remotely saves them space and money. You need to be careful now that the IRS is going to start cracking down on subcontractors and if you are working from their office you may be considered an employee (taxes and all). This could be used as another selling point to working remotely.

[joywilder]

I have the same problem - people want you sitting there in front of them. I guess we have to teach them what we do - educate the potential client about how VA's work and how we can help them.

Maybe write something up to put on your website about how a VA works. Spell it out for them? LOL

[P's & Q's VBS]

Thank you so much Lee and Joy. I am really glad it's not just me. Educating people on the benefits is key.

Tamara, I am having that anxiety and I haven't even started yet! I will have to edit my sight and add some incentive and real detail about what I do, and how it is beneficial to the client.....

[dognose]

Regarding Lee's comments about security, here's an interesting thread: Home office security

[MarindasBookkeepingServices]

I would suggest that you get a solid "security" plan in place. And present that along with why working remotely saves them space and money. You need to be careful now that the IRS is going to start cracking down on subcontractors and if you are working from their office you may be considered an employee (taxes and all). This could be used as another selling point to working remotely.

When you say 'Security" are you just talking PC security? If not what else are you referring too? And as far as PC security what do you all have?

I am soo new at this, (not officially started) and I'm nervous. Can you explain what you are saying about the IRS? Is the IRS coming down the Subcontractors themselves or the businesses hiring them?

[katekindred]

If you have a security policy for your computer and physical work space, have explained it and how you work and the client is still apprehensive I do this: move on. Move on to someone who already understands the concept. I have had to learn over many years of business to simply turn loose of the ones that need convincing. Not worth the time.

[Office Goddess]

And for more info on working 'virtually' with a bookkeeper, check out the October issue of TVE Magazine for the article on Page 29.

[Office Goddess]

When you say 'Security" are you just talking PC security? If not what else are you referring too? And as far as PC security what do you all have?

I am soo new at this, (not officially started) and I'm nervous. Can you explain what you are saying about the IRS? Is the IRS coming down the Subcontractors themselves or the businesses hiring them?

Marinda - there are lots of employers (and subs) who don't really understand the rules. There will be an article in the August/September issue of TVE devoted specifically to the IRS's viewpoint on the differences between employees and subcontractors. TVE will be released August 20th. I know I posted something on VAF as well, but I can't find it!