Last night, I spoke at a webinar for fellow bookkeepers, focusing on the importance of authentic communication in our profession.
As an introvert, public speaking isn’t something I’m eager to do. However, when I heard that speakers were needed for a webinar series organised to raise funds for underprivileged school children and help empower new bookkeepers, I didn’t hesitate to volunteer.
Why “authentic communication”? Whenever I spend time online I see so many posts – too many – that are generic, not personalised, and sound like every other post on the internet. And they all look so…fake.
In our desire to be appealing, it’s easy to fall into the trap of crafting perfectly written posts and even rehearsing canned responses for client calls.
But this often doesn’t reflect who we are, which I think is very important for bookkeepers.
The Power of Authenticity
Differentiates
In a room of bookkeepers who know how to use the same software and have learned the same accounting principles, what makes us different is our personalities, values and how we do our work.
Builds trust and creates long-term relationships
Technical skills are meaningless in bookkeeping if there’s no trust. Would you hire someone to manage your finances if you felt they weren’t being honest? Probably not.
Attracts the right clients and repels the wrong ones
I’m straightforward both online and offline, and this shows in my social media posts and conversations. Not everyone likes it, though, but that’s ok. Clients who contact me are those who appreciate my style, and those who don’t, hire someone else.
Reduces stress
When we’re not pretending to be someone else, things tend to feel smooth and easy. We can focus on the actual work, instead of trying to create an image we think clients will like.
So, what does authentic communication look like for bookkeepers?
It’s honest and unpretentious.
It’s transparent.
It reflects values and shows personality.
Don’t get me wrong, though. Authentic doesn’t mean unfiltered.
We can be authentic without being a jerk.
Honestly, I sometimes worry about sounding too blunt and sending the wrong message, so I usually add emojis to soften it up. 😃
Do you appreciate authentic communication, where your bookkeeper’s true personality comes through, or would you rather they just put on a front?
Cheers,
Val
P.S. Keen to work with a bookkeeper who’s real and easy to talk to? Shoot me a message anytime. 😉