I understand the challenges of building a bookkeeping business.
When I started my bookkeeping business, success meant survival...
When I started my little solo operation as a newly single mum of two beautiful boys, it was about keeping a roof over our heads and food on the table. I wasn't on a mission to create an empire. My goal was to achieve financial stability and independence, and to be there for my kids.
Reality hit...
I had been exposed to the ins and outs of running a family business before, and knew what it took. However, I underestimated how little support and guidance was available, and how isolated I would feel. This was before industry associations, events and networking groups – a code of conduct or BAS agents didn't even exist, and bookkeeping wasn't even considered a profession. I really felt that I was in it alone, making everything up as I went.
I made a commitment...
As I grew my business, I made it my mission to help others enter the industry and forge their own path. I trained and mentored bookkeepers using the framework of strategies, processes and procedures I'd created for my own firm, and seeing them gain confidence and achieve success was so rewarding that I knew I had to take it further. I wanted to share this framework with even more bookkeepers.
In 2021, I launched The Bookkeeper's Academy to do just that, on a much larger scale.
25 years on... I built and sold a 7-figure bookkeeping practice!
I'm really proud of everything I achieved running my bookkeeping practice – the milestones reached, challenges overcome, accolades received, the team we built, the outcomes we delivered for our clients – and the fact that I managed to build and sell a 7-figure practice. Of course, I was proud of the number, though I was equally as proud of the fact that it meant that I had built a successful, scalable, sustainable, and transferable business that held real value to investors.
I'm even prouder, and so grateful, to now be in a position where I can dedicate my time to being a bookkeeping business mentor, and help others achieve their own goals, and build their own bookkeeping business – not only through The Bookkeeper's Academy, but also through my positions as a Xero Partner Advisory Council (XPAC) member, Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (ICB) Board Non-Executive Director, and trusted industry speaker. Through these channels, I get to provide others with what I felt was really lacking when I started out – support, guidance, knowledge, resources, and a community of people who had my back and 'got it'.
What you'll find in the Academy...
In The Bookkeeper's Academy, I share the practical tools, strategies, processes, procedures, and resources I used in my own business. But just as importantly, I provide the support, guidance, and community that make this journey not only achievable, but enjoyable.
Whether you're starting out or scaling an established business, my mission is to help you achieve your goals and build a business you're proud of – just like I did.
I believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to succeed
(whatever success looks like for you)
It's exactly why I sold my practice and now focus entirely on being a bookkeeping business mentor. I've spent over a decade helping 100s of bookkeepers just like you build profitable, scalable practices that support their life goals (rather than rule them).
Rebecca Buchanan, Straight Up Bookkeeping
"After 8 years running my practice, I chose 1:1 mentoring with Martine because I wanted something fast-paced, focused on what I needed to work on, from someone who had built and sold a practice.
Martine has helped me to see my blind spots and step out of the bookkeeping work, and I’m looking at my business completely differently now.
I believe we’ll hit 7 figures sustainably in the next 18 months, and Martine’s guidance is part of the reason why."
Karen Whitely, Right Click Business Consulting
"I am so grateful for everything you do for the Academy members Martine.
I've been implementing the fixed prices and proposals strategy over the past few months and what a difference that's made to my business (and my mental health!). The fixed pricing and proposals learnings got me out of a few less than desirable situations and helped me put really strong processes in place to ensure I only take on clients that were the right fit for my business.
I can only say how amazing it's been cutting a lot of the dead wood. I've taken on some lovely new clients who have engaged my services since implementing the proposals etc - many have chosen a higher level than I would have expected. My existing clients have also surprised the heck of me! Some of those have also chosen a higher level than I expected.
I'm no longer chasing money, I know what my revenue is going to be each month and the sense of control over my business is indescribable. The pressure is off beyond what I could have ever expected. I know for a lot of people it's uncomfortable going through this process, but if I could only bottle the level of confidence this has given me and show them what it feels like to have the weight taken off, I'd do so in a heartbeat.
Thank you so much for everything you do for your members Martine. The value you bring is absolutely priceless!"
Joanne Tindale, In Control Bookkeeping
"Martine does far more than teach technical skills. She helps bookkeepers recognise their value, build confidence and understand that running a successful practice should not come at the expense of enjoying it.
For bookkeepers struggling to find practical, relevant resources, Martine's are cutting-edge and absolutely worth having in your arsenal. They reflect the realities of running a modern bookkeeping practice and provide tools that can actually be used.
Martine is practical, generous with her knowledge and genuinely committed to raising the standard and visibility of our profession. She understands that bookkeepers need more than information – they need support, connection and someone prepared to have honest conversations."
I've lived and breathed bookkeeping for the past 3 decades
I've done it all – run a solo operation, national franchise, and thriving practice, educated and mentored business owners, trained teams, joined expert panels at industry events, and advocated for the profession.
I have my finger on the pulse of the industry and its continued evolution – from the latest technology and systems, to compliance and legislative changes, and industry best-practice processes. It's a dynamic place to be, though you can trust that I'm across it.
Join Me >I believe in practising what I preach
The strategies and resources that I share in the Academy are the same as those used in my multi-award-winning, 7-figure bookkeeping business. They're tried, tested, trusted, and internationally recognised.
Are you ready to go after your dream?
We all know that a dream is an inspiring and beautiful thing. Though going after it can be confusing, overwhelming, and uncomfortable.
I know, first-hand, that the dream of building your own bookkeeping business can push you well and truly out of your comfort zone – repeatedly. And you can be left feeling completely out of control and alone.
I also know that, for me, the turning point came when I started to lean into the discomfort and focus on harnessing the knowledge, skills, and support I needed to regain control and pursue my dream with confidence.
Join Me >
I've broken it all down for you...
There are a lot of things to get your head around when running your own bookkeeping business – pricing strategies, service offerings, client acquisition and retention, team management and development, practice management, processes and procedures, compliance, business planning, marketing, systems and technology, risk management, and growth and contingency planning to name a few.
Whether you're starting from scratch, want to review and reset your business, or focus on a few key elements, the Academy breaks everything down into easy-to-follow Learning Modules and feature topics so you can learn and take action with clarity and confidence.
Academy Membership
Access all areas. Gain direct access to The Bookkeeper's Academy comprehensive membership program, including 12 industry-relevant Learning Modules, 100s of practical Resources, Live Q&As, Martine's extensive insights and experience, support and more.
1:1 Mentoring
Join Martine's customised 1:1 mentoring program designed specifically for bookkeeping business owners. Available by application only, this program will see you working directly with Martine to transform key areas of your business, and unlock scale, profit and capacity.
Short Courses
Home in on specific areas within your business with our selection of short courses. Transform your pricing strategy, build operational efficiency, grow a strong team, or win dream clients. Complete one or build out a short course bundle that meets your specific needs. Doors open soon.
Fun facts
01.
I've been a bookkeeper for 30 years and ran my own bookkeeping business for 25 (I'm showing my age!).
02.
I have 4 amazing kids, a husband who has my back, and a cavoodle called Teddy (you may catch a glimpse of him in my webinars and Live Q&As).
03.
I'm terrified of public speaking (feel the fear and do it anyway, right?!).
04.
I take a good 3 days to unwind when on holiday.
05.
I genuinely love what I do.
Watch The Bookkeeper's Guide to Pricing Webinar with Martine Hoosen
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