Exploring Bookkeeper Roles as a Licensed CPA: Challenges and Insights
As a licensed CPA with extensive experience in both public Accounting and corporate Accounting, I find myself at an unexpected crossroads. Despite my extensive background, I’m encountering difficulties when applying for bookkeeper positions. This situation is puzzling, especially since my goal is to gain confidence in Bookkeeping to eventually launch my own venture.
What factors could be influencing this challenge, and how can I better align my skills with the expectations for these roles? I am eager to learn and grow in this area, but finding the right starting point remains elusive. Any advice or insights from fellow professionals would be greatly appreciated.
One response
Embarking on a career transition, even one that seems like a natural step from your current role, can sometimes present unexpected challenges. Here are some potential reasons and actionable advice for overcoming obstacles in securing a Bookkeeping position:
1. Overqualification Perception
Hiring managers may view your CPA designation and extensive experience as overqualification, raising concerns about whether you would see Bookkeeping as a temporary or less satisfying role.
How to Address It:
– Tailor Your Resume: Emphasize skills that are directly applicable to Bookkeeping. Highlight your detail-oriented nature, understanding of financial regulations, and experience with financial software.
– Cover Letter: Use this as a platform to explain your genuine interest in bookkeeping, your career goals, and how this role fits within them. Clarify why you’re interested in transitioning to bookkeeping.
2. Experience Mismatch
Public Accounting and corporate Accounting might seem distant from the day-to-day tasks of bookkeeping, which often involve more routine, transactional work.
How to Address It:
– Bridge the Gap: Highlight any experience you have with the transactional side of Accounting, such as managing accounts payable/receivable or preparing financial statements.
– Network and Gain Insight: Connect with peers who have transitioned from similar roles to bookkeeping to understand and convey the skill overlaps better.
3. Technical Skill Gaps
Despite your accounting expertise, employers may require experience with specific bookkeeping software or methodologies.
How to Address It:
– Training and Certification: Consider taking courses in popular bookkeeping software like QuickBooks or Xero to boost your proficiency and credentials.
– Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest in bookkeeping trends and technologies. This not only enhances your resume but also demonstrates your commitment to the field.
4. Market Competition
Bookkeeping roles are often sought by candidates with more targeted backgrounds, such as those with direct experience or certifications in bookkeeping.
How to Address It:
– Targeted Applications: Focus on SME or startup environments where your diverse skill set could add tremendous value.
– Professional Associations: Join bookkeeping associations or online communities to increase your exposure to opportunities that might not be advertised broadly.
5. Entrepreneurial Angle
Given your interest in learning bookkeeping for starting your own business, employers might worry about your long-term commitment.
How to Address It:
– Communication is Key: Be transparent about your entrepreneurial ambitions in a way that reassures potential employers of your commitment to investing in