Most positions you will find in the bookkeeping field will require at least a high school diploma or equivalent. However, it is most desirable to attain a degree or certificate in the field of your employment. Many companies are looking for a bookkeeper with a college education, having an associate’s degree in business or accounting is required for many positions. Although the college degree is not always required, many college graduates will accept positions as a bookkeeper or accounting assistant, with the hope that they will be promoted to a higher position.
As with many other occupations, experience in the field and/or working in an office setting is a bonus for potential employers. Employers are also looking for candidates who are proficient in computer skills. Having a working knowledge of word processing and spreadsheet software, such as Microsoft Work and Excel, are increasingly important.
Once you are hired as a bookkeeper, on-the-job training is often available. Under the direction of a supervisor or other higher-ranking employee, new employees will learn company procedures. Some companies may also require some classroom training. This may include training in specific computer software programs and other company responsibilities.
Bookkeepers must have many specific attributes. They must be responsible, organized and detail-oriented. Bookkeepers must possess these traits in order to avoid making error, and to be able to recognize errors others are making. Bookkeepers should also be discreet and reliable, because they commonly come in contact with confidential data. In addition, bookkeepers should have a strong aptitude for math and numbers because this is the biggest part of the job.
Bookkeepers, chiefly those who handle all the record keeping for companies, may find it advantageous to become certified in the field. The American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers offers The Certified Bookkeeper designation. This guarantees employers that individuals will have the expertise and knowledge necessary to carry out all the bookkeeping functions up through the adjusted trial balance, including payroll tasks. For certification, individuals must have at least two years of bookkeeping practice, pass three tests and adhere to a code of ethics. There are more than 100 colleges that offer preparatory classes for bookkeeping and over 150 online courses on the subject.
For those looking for advancement, The Universal Accounting Center offers the Professional Bookkeeper title. Bookkeepers can advance by taking on more responsibilities and duties for higher pay, or by reassign to a directly related field. Most companies like to fill office and administrative support positions from within the firm, so there is good chance for advancement. Therefore, bookkeepers with certification will have the first advantage of filling those higher-up positions. With appropriate skills and experience, some bookkeepers may eventually become accountants and auditors.
