14 Steps How To Become a Bookkeeper Success

(doylc.com) How to Be a Bookkeeper - Accountants keep track of all funds going in and out of a business. If you want to help a company run like a well-oiled machine, then this is the job for you! Take courses in accounting and enroll in a two-year degree to improve your chances of getting a job. To advance your career, get certified, take advantage of training opportunities, and continue your education. Finally, you can even take the next step and become an accountant!

• How To Earn Education a Bookkeeper

1. Enroll in accounting-related electives while in high school. Load your electives with as many relevant courses as possible in addition to required coursework. Take any accounting, personal finance, business management, and typing classes your high school offers.

Accountants typically require a two-year associate degree, but some companies hire applicants who have earned a high school degree. Either way, taking relevant electives in high school will prepare you for a career in accounting.

2. Enroll in a 2-year accounting degree. Earn a degree from a trade school, community college, online school, or university. Look for associate degree programs in bookkeeping, accounting or business administration.

Accounting is the perfect major for aspiring accountants, but that doesn't mean accountants and accountants do the same job. Accountants essentially compile financial information, then accountants analyze that data, build models, and create comprehensive financial strategies.

3. Take courses in accounting principles, financial management and mathematics. Basic courses for accounting students include business accounting, business accounting, tax accounting, and payroll accounting. In addition, accountants are expected to follow strict ethical standards, so it is advisable to take a course in business ethics.

Even if you don't enroll in a degree program, you can still take courses online or at a community college here and there. Relevant college-level coursework will make you a more competitive candidate when looking for a job.

4. Expand your knowledge of spreadsheet and accounting software. Enroll in school or independently for coursework related to accounting information systems. Common programs are Microsoft Excel, QuickBooks, Sage and Oracle Financials Cloud.

It is also important to have good typing skills and to be proficient in using the 10-digit number pad, which is usually located on the far right of the keyboard. A keyboard course can help you develop these skills.

5. Refine your financial analysis skills. Whenever possible, it is advisable to take courses, read books or watch instructional videos on financial analysis. Relevant topics are data forecasting, statistics, financial strategy, risk assessment and credit analysis.

As technology advances, many routine accounting tasks have been and continue to be automated. Because of this, analysis and consulting become important skills and help you stay relevant as the industry evolves.

• How To Gain Employment a Bookkeeper

6. Intern at an auditing firm or in the accounting department of a company. Work with your school's careers office to find and apply for an accounting or bookkeeping internship. Landing your first job is often a struggle, but having an internship under your belt makes things easier.

Hands-on experience looks great on your resume and builds your skillset. In addition, recent graduates often land their first jobs in companies or accounting departments where they have completed an internship.

Companies that do not have an in-house accounting department hire external companies to manage their books. Both internal accounting departments and external firms generally employ accountants to manage financial records. Accountants, in turn, analyze and interpret this information.

7. Highlight your experience and education on your resume. If you don't have a lot of experience, focus on your education and training. List your degree, relevant coursework, and the accounting software you know. Under Experience, include internships, jobs, and any other entries that show you are detail-oriented, hard-working, and organized.

8. Search job boards for open positions in accounting. Look for career opportunities online and apply to as many as you can. You should also set up accounts on LinkedIn and other job boards. Also, don't forget to tap into the resources of your school's careers center.

You can also become a member of a professional association, such as B. the National Association of Certified Board Bookkeepers. A Professional membership looks great on a resume and gives you access to the organization's job search resources.

9. Contact a temp agency while looking for a full-time job. Find a reputable local temp agency and call or go online to begin the application and interview process. A temp job adds an experience record to your resume and could even turn into a full-time position.

Check a temp agency's online reviews and Better Business Bureau listing to make sure it's reputable.

Temporary employment agencies provide workers with free services and should never require you to pay a fee or a percentage of your earnings.

10. Secure several freelance jobs if you can't find a full-time position. Part-time, contract and teleworking are becoming increasingly popular in the industry. Cast a wide net when looking for a job instead of just applying for full-time positions. You may be able to land several part-time and contract jobs, and even work from the comfort of your own home!

Switching between part-time jobs is a good place to start, but aim to eventually secure a full-time job. In addition to benefits and job security, as a full-time employee, you're more likely to receive additional training.

• How To Advance Career a Bookkeeper

11. Take advantage of opportunities for on-the-job training. Employers often provide at least training on company-specific accounting systems and programs. Your employer may also pay for other professional development opportunities, such as software courses or seminars.

Professional development helps you expand your skills, increase your performance, and advance your career. Take every opportunity that comes your way!

12. Pass a certified accountant exam. Depending on the association, you will need 1 to 2 years of work experience and 2 years of study to take the exam. To apply, visit the website of your national or regional association of certified accountants. Complete the application form, pay the exam fees, and take the exam at the designated exam center.

For example, in the United States, take the Uniform Certified Public Bookkeeper exam from the National Association of Certified Bookkeepers. You can register for the exam, schedule exams, and take practical exams at https://bookkeeperassociation.org/exam/certified-public-bookkeeper.cfm.

The CPB exam costs $150 for non-members and $100 for members (US). It consists of 4 parts completed on separate dates and you have 2 hours to complete each part.

Certification is not required, but it will help you rise to the top of an accounting department.

13. Earn a 4-year degree if you haven't already earned one. Some employers offer full or partial tuition refunds, which can help you complete your undergraduate degree. Remember that you can advance your accounting career without a 4 year degree if you have the right experience. However, the more credentials you earn, the more competitive you become in job hunting and available promotions.

14. Consider a career as an accountant or chartered accountant. Once you earn a 4-year accounting degree, you can take the CPA exam and become a certified public accountant. You could also become a chartered accountant or accountant, evaluating a company's finances, assessing accuracy, and checking for regulatory compliance.

Accounting is a secure profession, but a career as an accountant or chartered accountant can expand your career opportunities. In addition, accountants and auditors earn, on average, about twice as much as accountants.