As a business owner, it can feel like wearing all the hats is part of the job description — sales, marketing, admin, client delivery… and finances. But at some point, trying to do it all becomes the thing holding you back from real growth.
When it comes to your money, DIY only works up to a point. Eventually, you’ll hit a wall where managing your own bookkeeping, tax prep, and financial planning becomes overwhelming, unclear, or risky.
So when is it time to bring in help? And who should you actually hire?
Understanding Financial Roles in Your Business
Not all financial experts do the same job. Here’s a breakdown:
- Bookkeeper: Tracks daily transactions, reconciles accounts, and categorises income and expenses. Keeps your records clean and current.
- Accountant: Handles compliance, tax returns, and ensures you’re meeting ATO regulations.
- Financial Advisor or CFO: Offers forward-looking financial strategy — helping you forecast, manage cash flow, and plan major decisions.
- Profit Strategist (like me): Translates your numbers into meaningful plans that align with your business goals, using methods like Profit First.
The Red Flags You’re Ready to Let Go of DIY
If any of these sound familiar, it’s probably time:
- You avoid looking at your business bank account
- Your bookkeeping is always behind
- Tax season = stress season
- You don’t know if you’re actually profitable
- You make decisions based on gut, not data
Trying to scale without financial support is like driving blindfolded — it’s chaotic and unsustainable.
What Happens When You Get Help
One of my clients described the experience of hiring us as “taking off a backpack I didn’t even know I was wearing.”
That’s the difference support makes: peace of mind, better sleep, fewer money surprises, and a sense of clarity and control.
How to Choose the Right Financial Partner
When you’re ready to stop DIY-ing, don’t just hire the cheapest. Look for someone who:
- Understands your business model and growth goals
- Speaks in plain language
- Is proactive (not just available at tax time)
- Embraces tech and efficient systems
- Can scale their services as your business grows
The CEO Move: Delegate to Grow
If you’re ready to lead with clarity, get yourself some support. It doesn’t have to be a full-time hire. A bookkeeper, new accountant, or business coach could be the shift you need.
Letting go isn’t weakness. It’s leadership.