Interested in bookkeeping career paths?

What's it like working as a bookkeeper? I'd like to know about the job duties and tasks involved, especially any skills or education needed to succeed in this role.

Bookkeeping is a vital function in any business, large or small. Bookkeepers are responsible for maintaining financial records and managing transactions. This includes tasks like reconciling bank statements, conducting daily financial entries and reconciliations, handling the payroll, tracking income and expenses, invoicing customers, and paying the company's bills.

The level of education required for a bookkeeper can vary. Generally, you'll need at least a high school diploma, but many employers prefer candidates with associate's or bachelor's degrees in accounting, finance, or a similar field. Also, there's no requirement for a bookkeeper to be certified, but there are certifications available which might boost your credibility. One such certification is the Certified Bookkeeper designation offered by the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB).

Regarding skills, a bookkeeper must have an inherent understanding of financial record-keeping. This includes both basic math skills and a comprehensive understanding of accounting principles and procedures. Proficiency in using bookkeeping software such as QuickBooks or Excel, attention to detail, and strong organizational skills are also critical since you'll need to record, store and retrieve financial transactions efficiently and accurately.

While the daily tasks might seem routine, the role is quite important because a company's financial health largely depends on how accurately a bookkeeper records transactions and maintains the accounts. So, if you enjoy working with numbers and have strong attention to detail, bookkeeping might be a rewarding career for you.