Discover the Secrets to Job Satisfaction: Insights from Bethany, Lead Bookkeeper at Truly Bookkeeping
Bethany, a lead bookkeeper at Truly Bookkeeping, shares her journey and insights about working in a supportive and collaborative environment. In this interview, she discusses her role, the company’s culture, and how Truly Bookkeeping stands out in terms of employee and client relationships.
Meet Bethany: Lead Bookkeeper at Truly Bookkeeping
Q: Hi Bethany, thank you for taking the time to participate in this interview! To start, could you tell us a bit about yourself and your role at Truly Bookkeeping?
I’m Bethany, the lead bookkeeper at Truly Bookkeeping. I joined Truly in October of last year as a part-time bookkeeper. By January, I was working over 30 hours a week and was appointed the lead bookkeeper for ten clients. I continue to manage these clients today.
On a personal note, I’m married to Clinton and we have two daughters. Savannah, our eldest, is an elementary teacher in Tennessee, and Gabrielle is studying International Studies at the University of Alabama. We live in Illinois, so we make it a point to visit them whenever we can. I enjoy gardening, hiking, and baking, with summer being my favorite season.
The Journey to Bookkeeping
Q: What initially drew you to the field of bookkeeping, and what do you enjoy most about your work?
I initially majored in biology, but as my career progressed, I found myself increasingly involved in financial tasks. I developed a strong interest in bookkeeping due to its clear, black-and-white nature. I enjoy the precision and clarity that comes with handling finances, which ultimately led me to pursue this career.
A Supportive Work Environment
Q: Truly Bookkeeping is known for its supportive work environment. Can you share your experience working with Kelli and how she advocates for her employees?
At Truly, we have a flexible work arrangement that has been beneficial for my work-life balance. The company emphasizes professional development through ongoing training. When I first started, Kelli told me that we would never stop learning in this field, which initially intimidated me. However, I now appreciate that continual learning keeps the job engaging. Kelli promotes open communication, ensuring transparency and valuing our feedback and concerns. This approach makes me feel that my voice is heard and valued.
Effective Communication and Boundaries
Q: How has Kelli’s approach to creating boundaries and communicating effectively influenced your work experience and job satisfaction?
Kelli provides clear guidelines and expectations, helping me stay focused and productive. She encourages a healthy work-life balance, enhancing my overall well-being. The open communication environment she fosters allows me to be honest and feel heard. Recently, I told her that this was the first time in ages that I felt genuinely heard by a boss. Her proactive and reliable approach inspires our team to achieve our goals efficiently and effectively.
Advocacy and Support
Q: Can you provide an example of a time when Kelli’s advocacy or support made a significant difference for you or the team?
Kelli doesn’t refer to us as employees but as team members, which fosters a sense of equality and collaboration. This approach emphasizes that we are all working together towards common goals, creating an environment where everyone’s contributions are valued. It makes me feel empowered and motivated to take ownership of my work and strengthens the team dynamic.
What Sets Truly Bookkeeping Apart
Q: What do you believe sets Truly Bookkeeping apart from other companies in terms of employee support and client relationships?
Truly Bookkeeping stands out due to the personal touch we bring to our work. We prioritize building long-term relationships with clients, focusing on understanding their unique needs and providing tailored solutions. This personalized approach differentiates us from other companies.
Values and Professional Growth
Q: How do you see the values and culture at Truly Bookkeeping benefiting your professional growth?
As a perfectionist, I appreciate the emphasis on high standards and continuous improvement, which drives me to enhance my skills and knowledge. The strong support network at Truly encourages mentorship and constructive feedback, aiding in my professional growth and personal development. The focus on a healthy work-life balance ensures I remain motivated and productive.
Advice for Aspiring Bookkeepers
Q: What advice would you give to someone considering a career in bookkeeping or looking to join a supportive company like Truly Bookkeeping?
If you feel your current position lacks the support you need, I encourage you to seek a workplace that meets both your professional and personal needs. Finding the right fit can make a significant difference in your career satisfaction and growth.
Final Thoughts on Truly Bookkeeping
Q: Is there anything else you’d like to share about your experience at Truly Bookkeeping or any additional thoughts on the importance of a supportive work environment?
Despite most of our team working in different time zones, we maintain a strong sense of teamwork and collaboration. We support each other and foster a sense of community, which enhances our problem-solving abilities and strengthens our overall work experience.