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Is Bookkeeping a Suitable Career Change for a 49-Year-Old with No Experience?
Hello everyone,
After spending 28 years in HR/Recruiting, I’ve reached a dead end due to various reasons. I’m now exploring new career paths and skillsets to facilitate a career change.
In New Jersey, I’m fortunate to receive a $4,000 stipend for retraining, and one of the available options is a course in Bookkeeping.
I’m curious about determining if Bookkeeping is a good fit for me. Although I have never used QuickBooks, I did take an Accounting class in high school 35 years ago and consider myself reasonably good with numbers.
Additionally, I would appreciate insights into the job market for someone who is starting fresh in this field after completing a course. Almost anything seems preferable to my current situation in HR.
Thank you for your guidance as I strive to remain relevant in the job market.
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One response
Transitioning careers later in life can be a rewarding endeavor, and Bookkeeping offers a viable path for someone with a background in HR/recruiting. Below, I’ll address your main concerns and provide some insights into the Bookkeeping field.
Assessing Your Fit for Bookkeeping
Analytical Skills: Bookkeeping involves managing and recording financial transactions accurately. Your proficiency with numbers will be beneficial. Reflect on whether you enjoy or excel at detailed, methodical work, as these are important traits for a bookkeeper.
Attention to Detail: This role requires meticulous attention to detail to ensure financial accuracy. Given your experience in HR, particularly if it involved dealing with legalities and compliance, you may already possess this trait.
Learning New Technologies: While you haven’t used QuickBooks before, your past experience likely involved using various HR software, showing you can adapt to new technologies. Approach learning QuickBooks or similar software as an opportunity to enhance your technological skills.
Self-Assessment: Consider taking an online aptitude test for bookkeeping or enrolling in an introductory course to gauge your interest and capability before committing fully.
Educational Opportunities and Resources
Certification & Training: Look for accredited bookkeeping courses that offer a comprehensive overview of the field. Since you’re receiving a stipend, you might want to opt for foundational courses that include software training in QuickBooks, Xero, or Excel.
Online Platforms: Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer courses that help build basic Accounting skills and familiarize you with essential bookkeeping software.
Job Market Outlook
Growing Demand: Bookkeeping and Accounting are fundamental to business operations. The demand fluctuates, but there’s always a need for skilled professionals, especially in small businesses and startups.
Remote Work Opportunities: With the rise of digital platforms, many bookkeeping roles offer flexibility in terms of remote work, which can be an attractive option depending on your lifestyle and work preferences.
Potential Income: While entry-level salaries may not be exceptionally high, there are opportunities to grow, especially as you gain experience and additional certifications.
Network and Leverage Experience: Use your extensive HR network to connect with small business owners or firms. Often, networking can lead to job opportunities, even in a field that is new to you.
Transition Strategies