Heritage Business Services - A virtual bookkeeping service founded by Kate Johnson
Heritage Business Services is a virtual bookkeeping service that helps small businesses manage their financial records and accounting needs. Founded by Kate Johnson, who initially had no formal bookkeeping experience, the service targets small business owners who need help with bookkeeping but don’t have the time or expertise to manage it themselves.
Why It Works
Heritage Business Services succeeds due to Kate's unique approach to providing personalized, cloud-based bookkeeping services, along with her ability to teach clients how to use software effectively. By focusing on the needs of small business owners and offering tailored solutions, she fills a significant gap in the market.
Revenue & Traction
Kate's bookkeeping service is projected to generate between $80,000 to $90,000 in client services this year, with an additional income stream from her influencer activities that matches that amount, totaling over $150,000.
Founding Story
Kate started her journey when she found herself with extra time after her youngest child started preschool. With no prior bookkeeping experience, she took action by enrolling in a course and leveraging her skills to start serving clients. Her journey took off when she networked at a real estate event, landing her first client through a casual conversation. Since then, she has built a thriving business while adapting to her family's needs as a military spouse.
Business Playbook
1. Identify Your Niche: Determine the specific service you want to provide (e.g., bookkeeping, virtual assistance) and choose a software that complements that service (e.g., QuickBooks, FreshBooks). 2. Educate Yourself: Take relevant courses or utilize free resources online to gain a solid understanding of the fundamentals of bookkeeping and the software you’ll be using. 3. Network and Market: Attend local networking events and leverage social media to introduce yourself as a service provider. Share your expertise and connect with potential clients. 4. Start Small: Begin by offering your services at a lower rate to build confidence and gain experience. Use this time to learn about client needs and refine your offerings. 5. Scale Your Business: As you gain experience, consider creating additional income streams, like online courses or subscription services, to help DIY clients while also freeing up your time.
Additional Information
Kate utilizes tools like Ignition for billing and has created a YouTube channel to provide valuable content to potential clients, focusing on how to use FreshBooks effectively. She also runs a Substack newsletter to build community and share insights about her journey, further establishing her as a thought leader in the bookkeeping space.
Source
Podcast: The Side Hustle Show
Episode: $70 an Hour from Home? How to Start a Bookkeeping Side Hustle (Greatest Hits)
Creation Date: March 4, 2025
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