5 Key Tips for Becoming a Bookkeeper
There are around 1,673,6000 bookkeepers in the U.S, which shows it’s a popular career.
Becoming a bookkeeper is a fantastic opportunity as you’re in demand, you work flexible hours, and develop up-to-date skills. Perhaps you’re planning to become a bookkeeper but you’re unsure where to start.
Sounds familiar? Don’t worry, we’ve got your back. Here are five tips to help you.
1. Take a Course
Before you jumpstart your bookkeeping career, know that you must hold a high school diploma. This shows that you have basic math, writing, and communication skills which are essential for becoming a reputable bookkeeper.
You should also gain work experience so you learn management skills, how to stay organized, and work well with a team.
2. Get Certified and a License
To become a bookkeeper, you’ll need to get a certification. Once you’ve got an entry-level bookkeeping job, then you must apply to the American Association of Professional Bookkeepers to take a course and pass an exam.
Once you’re certified, you’ll need a license so you can land bookkeeping clients. But to get this, you’ll need in-depth bookkeeping training to maintain your position.
3. Familiarize Yourself With Accounting Software
Aside from attending bookkeeping classes, you must familiarize yourself with accounting software. For example, programs like QuickBooks streamlines the process so that you can track a business’s finances.
Don’t worry if you’re overwhelmed, it’s possible to take courses so you become an expert with the software and help business owners.
4. Apply For Positions
Many bookkeepers choose to work full-time for an employer which you can find either locally or remotely.
To do this, you must submit a detailed resume that highlights your bookkeeping skills and provide examples of professional experiences. If not, take an internship to show that you can apply your skills to real-life situations.
5. Or Go Freelance
Many bookkeepers are interested in the career because they want to be a freelancer. If you’re in this situation and you’re unsure how to get bookkeeping clients, check out job boards online.
But get at least two years experience working for an employer so you gain extensive experience and feel more confident in the role. Then, build a website and advertise your services online so you further your reach.
And aside from offering businesses an hourly rate, advise them to use your services so you’re on a monthly retainer. This is where you offer day-to-day assistance, monitor their bill payments, and share financial advice.
But it’s wise to get several clients like this so you’re not constantly scouring job boards for a part-time role.
Our Becoming a Bookkeeper Tips
Hopefully, after reading this article, you now know everything about becoming a bookkeeper.
Start by taking a course, getting certified, and gain an in-depth knowledge of accounting software. Once you have the basics, you can either find an employer or go freelance to grow your business. Good luck!
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Ben Stern wrote this article on behalf of FreeUp. FreeUp is the fastest-growing freelance marketplace in the US. FreeUp only accepts the top 1% of freelance applicants. Click here to get access to the top freelancers in the world.
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