Level Up Your Bookkeeping Career: Certifications to Consider
Hello there! As a 27-year-old with a background in part-time Bookkeeping within a public school system, you might feel the struggle of securing a full-time position in this field. One effective strategy to significantly enhance your appeal to potential employers is by acquiring relevant certifications.
Adding a certification to your resume not only demonstrates your commitment to professional growth but also equips you with the knowledge and credentials that could give you a competitive edge. The US Career Institute offers a well-regarded Bookkeeping program that you may find worthwhile. However, before making any decisions, it’s always beneficial to explore your options and hear from others who have been in your shoes.
Do you have experiences or thoughts about pursuing certifications in bookkeeping? Whether it’s the US Career Institute or other programs you can recommend, I’d love to hear your insights. Sharing your journey and advice could make a world of difference for someone looking to make their mark in the bookkeeping world. All thoughts and recommendations are greatly appreciated!
One response
Pursuing a certification can certainly enhance your resume and make you a more appealing candidate to potential employers, especially in the field of Bookkeeping and Accounting. Certifications serve as a testament to your skills, knowledge, and commitment to the profession, often giving you an edge over other candidates. Here are some certifications that could be particularly beneficial for someone looking to advance their career in Bookkeeping:
Certified Bookkeeper (CB) from the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB): This certification is highly regarded in the industry and covers fundamental aspects of Bookkeeping such as adjusting entries, error correction, payroll, and depreciation. It is designed to validate your proficiency and dedication to a career in bookkeeping.
Certified Public Bookkeeper (CPB) from the National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers (NACPB): This is another certification that’s well-respected in the bookkeeping community. It covers similar topics to the CB certification and even includes QuickBooks and payroll certification as part of its curriculum, which can underscore your expertise in essential bookkeeping tools.
QuickBooks Certification: Given the prevalence of QuickBooks in bookkeeping and Accounting environments, obtaining a QuickBooks Certification could be extremely advantageous. This certification demonstrates your capability to manage and interpret financial data using one of the most popular Accounting Software programs. Many bookkeepers find it useful because employers often look for proficiency in such tools.
Enrolled Agent (EA): While not strictly a bookkeeping certification, becoming an Enrolled Agent can broaden your career opportunities. This IRS-awarded certification allows you to represent taxpayers and is a strong addition if you’re considering roles that might require some tax expertise.
In terms of choosing a program, it would be valuable to consider factors such as the program’s reputation, the comprehensiveness of the curriculum, support for finding placements or internships, and its alignment with your career goals. The US Career Institute is a decent starting point, but also compare it to other popular online platforms such as Coursera or edX, which offer various bookkeeping and accounting courses. Additionally, consider the community and networking opportunities available through membership in organizations like the AIPB or NACPB.
Beyond certification, practical experience remains invaluable. Look for opportunities to gain hands-on experience, whether through internships, volunteer positions, or freelancing on platforms such as Upwork. Networking with professionals through LinkedIn or local business events can also provide insights and opportunities in your field. In today’s job market, combining certification with practical experience and a