Pursuing a career in bookkeeping allows you to work in a broad range of industries. Depending on what you’re interested in, you’re able to tailor your career to suit you. Whether that’s working for an agency, a family-run business or working remotely for clients around the world.
A career in bookkeeping is flexible and can be a great way to earn a living. There is a constant demand for professional bookkeepers since all types of businesses need to keep track of their finances.
Whether they’re a huge firm or a small team, it’s important to keep an eye on the accounts. This ensures they’re properly operating within government legislation. As well as keeping a log on numbers to better inform business strategies.
What’s more, becoming a professional bookkeeper doesn’t require any higher education. Therefore, it’s a lot easier to break into the industry and start your new career. No matter what your previous experience is or level of education, it’s never too late to get started.
If you have an analytical mind and a keen eye for detail, then a career in bookkeeping is a solid choice. Read on to learn more on how to become a professional bookkeeper.
Getting Qualified
There is no definitive route into bookkeeping. So, with hard work and determination, you’re able to have a successful career. However, the fastest way to break into the industry and develop your skills properly would be to get qualified.
Getting qualified helps your application stand out amongst the crowd. Letting potential employers know you’re serious about your profession and have the necessary skills to succeed. Even without any previous experience.
Whether you’re a complete novice or looking to advance your already existing knowledge further, there’s plenty of courses out there.
AAT Qualifications
The Association of Accounting Technicians is an internationally recognised professional body of accountants and bookkeepers. With members across 90 countries making it one of the most well-respected awarding bodies in the world.
Getting an AAT accredited qualification will develop your knowledge to industry standard. As well as opening up career opportunities around the world. Allowing you to expand your horizons for employment in diverse and exciting ways.
There are two levels of AAT bookkeeping qualifications available:
Depending on your skills and experience you’re able to build from the ground up or advance your knowledge further.
Foundation
The AAT Level 2 Certificate in Bookkeeping covers the key principles of bookkeeping. Helping you build a strong foundation and start your new career in bookkeeping.
Throughout your course, you’ll learn how to effectively record business financial affairs. As well as gaining an understanding on how to properly use common bookkeeping software. Ensuring you’ll have the necessary tools to bring to a bookkeeping role in any industry.
In addition to this, you’ll develop your ability to execute tasks manually, such as calculating credit notes and sales.
Once you’ve completed your qualification, you’ll be a qualified bookkeeper. This will ensure your qualification stands out amongst other applicants to potential employers.
Advanced
The Level 3 Certificate in Bookkeeping is ideal for experienced bookkeepers who wish to deepen their expertise.
Through your studies, you’ll learn everything you need to know on how to carry out complex bookkeeping transactions from final accounts preparation to indirect tax and liaising with accountants.
You’ll also gain the ability to prepare and record depreciation calculations. As well as accurately report on VAT returns by understanding current legislation surrounding VAT.
Once completed, you’ll have the level of understanding required to become a Senior Bookkeeper or Ledger Manager. You could also expand your horizons by studying further and becoming a qualified accountant or even start your own business.
Studying Online
What’s more, you can study these qualifications online. That means you’re able to work towards your desired career without impacting on your current schedule.
Online learning gives you the flexibility to work through your course at a pace and place that’s right for you. Whether that’s at home, your favourite coffee shop or during your lunch break at work. It’s completely up to you.
You won’t have to worry about rearranging existing commitments to attend classes as there aren’t any. So long as you have a laptop and stable internet connection, you’re good to go.
As soon as you enrol on an online course the material becomes available to you. So, you won’t have to wait for term-time to begin as you would at a physical college.
Because you’re in complete control of your learning, you’re able to relax and enjoy the experience. Making sure you understand each module before moving forward. As well as being able to revisit previous material as often as you’d like until you’re fully confident.
If you’re ready to pursue a career in bookkeeping then learndirect can help.
learndirect is the leading online learning provider in the UK. We offer a range of courses to ensure you’re able to reach your full potential and go after the careers you want.
All our courses have flexible payment options and dedicated tutors to support your learning. They’ll provide you with constructive feedback on your work and any extra assistance where needed.
To learn more on how to prepare for your online course visit our blog here.
Browse our AAT courses below or get in touch with one of our advisors to learn more and enrol today!
