How to Get More Local Clients Without Spending Money on Ads (NZ Guide for Accounting & Bookkeeping Professionals)

Attracting new clients as an accounting or bookkeeping professional in New Zealand doesn’t have to break the bank. By using practical, no-cost strategies tailored to Kiwi businesses and communities, you can boost your visibility and build trust locally. This guide offers 10 actionable tips designed for accountants and bookkeepers aiming to grow their local client base without paid ads.

Here are some tips that you might find interesting:

1. Set Up a Google Business Profile

Google Business Profile is a free way to appear in local searches like “bookkeeper near me Auckland” or “accounting services Christchurch.” It’s important to fill out your profile completely.

Add your business details, service list, photos, and contact info. Regularly request reviews from satisfied clients mentioning their location and your services.

A Wellington accountant saw a rise in client enquiries after optimising their Google profile with localised keywords and client feedback.

2. Join Local Facebook and Community Groups

Facebook and Neighbourly groups are hubs where businesses and individuals seek bookkeeping and accounting recommendations.

Engage by sharing tips, answering questions, and providing helpful advice without overt selling.

Check out groups like “Auckland Business Network” or “Christchurch Small Business Owners” to connect with local prospects.

3. List on NZ Accounting Directories

Directories such as Yada, Yellow.co.nz, and TradeMe Services feature trusted accountants and bookkeepers, helping local clients find you easily.

Complete your profiles with detailed service descriptions, client testimonials, and examples of your work.

A Tauranga bookkeeping service increased leads significantly after boosting their directory profiles.

4. Respond to Jobs on Yada

Yada connects you with local clients posting accounting and bookkeeping jobs without charging lead or success fees.

Maintain a strong rating by delivering dependable service and communicating clearly to increase your job offers.

One Christchurch accountant credits Yada for providing steady, local work through timely job responses.

5. Collect and Showcase Client Reviews

Reviews from happy clients are vital to building trust in NZ’s close-knit markets.

Make sharing reviews easy with direct links and consider offering discounts or incentives for referrals.

A Nelson bookkeeper grew their client base substantially by highlighting client testimonials.

6. Share Expert Tips on Social Media

Post useful accounting and finance tips on Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn to establish credibility and engage local followers.

Use regional hashtags like #WellingtonBookkeeping and interact with local business communities online.

An Auckland accountant’s social media advice posts boosted inquiries and online presence.

7. Partner with Complementary Local Businesses

Work with local bookkeepers, tax advisors, and business coaches to exchange referrals and expand networks.

A Hamilton bookkeeping service formed partnerships with local firms, creating mutual client growth.

Consider co-hosting webinars or workshops with partners to broaden your reach.

8. Distribute Flyers and Use Community Boards

Community noticeboards in shops, cafes, and libraries are effective for reaching local entrepreneurs offline.

Create appealing flyers with a clear description of your services and contact info, and distribute them strategically.

A Tauranga bookkeeper gained clients through flyers placed in busy business districts and community centres.

9. Offer Free Local Workshops

Conduct workshops on managing small business finances or tax tips to showcase your expertise and attract leads.

Promote these events in local Facebook groups and community boards to reach your target audience.

A Christchurch accountant’s workshops led directly to several new client bookings.

10. Keep Organised and Communicative

Professional communication, transparent scheduling, and clear updates build trust and encourage repeat business.

Use Yada’s internal chat to maintain clear, private communications with clients and reduce misunderstandings.

Consistency and reliability are key to earning great reviews and referrals within Kiwi business circles.