📈 From Solo to Team: How to Know When You Need a 2IC
I used to think I had to do it all myself — every client, every report, every little admin task. I was proud of being the one who handled everything… until I realized it was keeping me stuck.
The moment things started to shift in my business was the moment I admitted:
“I need someone who can help me carry this.”
In martial arts, we always train with partners — not just to learn how to spar, but to learn how to trust. Building a bookkeeping business isn’t that different. At some point, if you want to grow without losing your sanity, you’re going to need your version of a second-in-command (2IC).
Here’s how to know when it’s time — and what to do next.
🚩 Signs You're Ready to Stop Flying Solo
If any of these sound familiar, you might already be overdue for help:
You’re turning away leads because you’re at capacity
You’re dreading small tasks like email replies or chasing logins
You’re missing opportunities to grow because you’re stuck in the weeds
You keep saying “I just need one good person I can trust…”
Spoiler: That person is your 2IC.
🧠 What Is a 2IC?
It’s not just an assistant.
A true 2IC (Second-in-Command) is someone who:
Understands your systems
Can manage recurring client work with minimal oversight
Has the emotional maturity to handle client communication
Supports you so you can stay in your zone of genius
In the dojo, this would be your senior student who runs warmups, helps guide lower belts, and knows what to do when you’re out sick.
In your bookkeeping biz, it’s the person who can keep things moving without you needing to micromanage.
🛠️ What to Delegate First (Without Losing Control)
Start small. Don’t hire out your highest-level advisory work — keep your black belt work on your belt.
Instead, delegate:
Routine categorization & reconciliation
Email responses or task management
Admin like gathering docs or follow-up reminders
Drafting reports or prepping Looms for your review
The goal is to free up your time without compromising your standards.
🔍 Finding the Right Fit
Here’s what I look for in a potential 2IC:
I’ve seen too many bookkeepers hire someone fast and end up cleaning up more messes. Take your time. Train them well. Think long-term.
🥋 Want to Build a Team Without Losing Your Mind?
Inside Black Belt Bookkeepers Mentorship, I help you create the systems that make it possible to bring someone on without everything falling apart.
You’ll learn how to:
Document and delegate your processes
Create task libraries and SOPs
Lead with confidence (even if you’ve never hired before)
📥 Want my “Readiness Checklist” for bringing on a 2IC? Let me know — I’ll send it your way.
Coming Thursday:
📋 Skills Checklist: What to Look for When Hiring Your First Junior Bookkeeper