Should You Become a Bookkeeper in 2026

In this episode of The Bookkeepers Podcast, sponsored by Xero, we discuss whether starting a new bookkeeper practice is a sound decision given the current industry trends. We also explore the impact of artificial intelligence on the profession and share our thoughts on the future of work in bookkeeping. This conversation is essential for anyone considering a small business in this evolving field. ----------------------------------------------- About us We're Jo and Zoe and we help bookkeepers find clients, make more money and build profitable businesses they love. Find out about working with us in The Bookkeepers' Collective, at: 6figurebookkeeper.com/collective ----------------------------------------------- About our Sponsor This episode of The Bookkeepers' Podcast is sponsored by Xero. Get 90% off your first 6 months by visiting: https://xero5440.partnerlinks.io/6figurebookkeeper ----------------------------------------------- Promotion This video contains paid promotion. ----------------------------------------------- Disclaimer The information contained in The Bookkeepers' Podcast is provided for information purposes only. The contents of The Bookkeepers' Podcast is not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of the Bookkeepers' Podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of the Bookkeepers' Podcast. The 6 Figure Bookkeeper Ltd disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of the Bookkeepers' Podcast. Chapters: 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:00:15 - Challenges and Opportunities in Starting a Bookkeeping Practice 00:00:22 - The Impact of AI on the Industry 00:00:47 - The Importance of Mindset and Curiosity 00:01:30 - The Changing Nature of the Industry 00:02:50 - The Importance of Continuous Learning 00:03:39 - The Future of Bookkeeping: Helping Clients Make Money 00:03:50 - Redefining the Role of Bookkeepers 00:04:19 - The Importance of Value in Pricing 00:06:32 - Challenges in Adapting to New Pricing Models 00:11:28 - The Need for a Growth Mindset 00:11:47 - Building a Bookkeeping Business Today 00:15:05 - The Role of AI in Enhancing Client Interaction 00:15:35 - The Importance of Understanding Client Needs 00:16:20 - The Potential of AI in Streamlining Workflow 00:17:31 - The Value of a Unique Business Model 00:19:09 - The Importance of Regulatory Compliance in Starting a Practice 00:19:27 - The Bookkeepers Collective and its Benefits 00:21:56 - The Impact of AI on Business Strategy 00:24:48 - The Evolution of Information Sharing and the Role of AI 00:28:07 - The Excitement of Building a Practice with AI #bookkeeper