How much time on one client?

[bbSquire]

As I mentioned in another post I still have no clients. I'm thinking about taking on a part-time job or signing up to something like Accountemps. I really still would like to work for myself though.

I'm just wondering on a weekly average, how many hours you spend on your most complicated client? I know each client is different, but I need to think about time-management if I take a part-time job. Some of these part-time jobs on the job boards say they need an employee for 16, 20 hours a week. Can small and medium sized companies really be that complex?

Thanks for any info anyone would like to share.

Kim.

[kjmcculloch]

I don't spend any more than 5 hours per week on any one client. This was a concious decision I made. The reason is that I don't want to become too reliant on one client in case anything should happen to them.

Kris

[TheVivienne]

You are right Kris, the more you put in more hours on one client the more they will depend on you.

[BrightBooks]

I agree with Kris, my max has been about 4 hours per client per week. Have you tried to network with CPA's in your area? They are always looking for good bookkeepers to process the day to day information. You want to look for CPA's who mainly focus on tax work.

[LGCVS]

I've always used the 25% rule. No client should make up more than 25% of revenue for my entire practice. The number of hours would depend on my resources available.

[cindyaleli]

I think this would depend on each particular client. I work for around 15 hours per week for one client. I, like you, took a part time job since I wasn't getting enough work and go figure...as soon as I took the job I got a few clients calling. I optimized my website a little and it made all the difference. Do you have a website that is coming up in google searches on the first page? Also, add google analytics to your website so you can see where your hits are coming from. Now I have to leave my part time job so I can focus fully on my virtual business.

[bbSquire]

Thank you for sharing. As it turns out I may not have to take a p/t job after all.

I spoke with a rep from the Markham Board of Trade. Even though I don't live in Markham she says I can join. And they have people and CPAs "crying out" for bookkeepers. I'm setting up to join and hopefully I will have to beat of clients with a stick. :P (Just kidding).

But I still will need to manage my time so all the advice will help.

Kim.