Transitioning Careers at 49: Is Bookkeeping the Right Path?
Hello to all career adventurers out there! After dedicating 28 years to the field of HR and Recruiting, I find myself at a crossroads, eager for a fresh start. If you’re like me, seeking a new direction, you may wonder which path is worth exploring.
In my case, the state of New Jersey has provided an intriguing opportunity—a $4,000 stipend to acquire new skills, with Bookkeeping being one of the options on the table. This has made me ponder: Is Bookkeeping a suitable choice for someone like me who hasn’t delved into it before? I haven’t used QuickBooks and my only acquaintance with Accounting was way back in high school, 35 years ago. Yet, I do have a knack for numbers.
So, how does one determine if bookkeeping is a career they could excel in? And what does the job market look like for newcomers armed only with newfound knowledge from a training course? Anything seems promising compared to my current HR predicament.
I’m on a mission to remain valuable in today’s job market, and I’d appreciate any insights or experiences you can share about transitioning into bookkeeping or any other rewarding career paths for mid-life career changers. Thank you for joining me on this quest for professional renewal!
One response
Switching careers at 49 can be both a daunting and an exciting opportunity, especially when you’re able to leverage support like the NJ stipend for retraining. Bookkeeping could certainly be a viable option for you, and here’s why, along with some considerations to help you determine if it’s the right fit.
Understanding the Role and Preparing for Bookkeeping:
Bookkeeping involves recording financial transactions, managing ledgers, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations. It’s true that the skillset required for bookkeeping is different from HR/Recruiting, but there are transferable skills from your past career that could be beneficial. For instance, your experience in managing details, analyzing data, and maintaining confidentiality are valuable assets in bookkeeping.
You’ll need to be comfortable with various software platforms, primarily QuickBooks, which is industry-standard for many small businesses. Given that you’ve indicated strength with numbers and past exposure to Accounting basics, this could bode well for your success. To gauge your interest and aptitude further, you might consider starting with free introductory online tutorials or a trial version of QuickBooks to get a feel for the software.
Training and Certification:
Even though the field might seem new, formal training can bridge that gap. There are comprehensive bookkeeping courses that can train you from the ground up, and many offer certification upon completion. As you’re exploring options, look for courses that provide hands-on practice with real-world scenarios. Getting a certification, such as becoming a Certified Public Bookkeeper (CPB) or a Certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor, can also enhance your credibility and employability.
Job Market and Opportunities:
The demand for bookkeepers remains strong, especially as businesses—small and large—require an acute focus on fiscal health. Many organizations are looking for bookkeepers who can also advise on financial best practices, perform analytics, and ensure regulatory compliance, which could be an area to explore as you transition. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of bookkeeping, Accounting, and auditing clerks is expected to remain stable, as efficiency improvements and technology are balanced with the need for accuracy.
Starting fresh out of a course may mean beginning in an entry-level position; however, your vast professional experience could differentiate you in the marketplace, making you appealing to employers who value seasoned professionals. You might also consider freelancing or consulting, giving you flexibility and the ability to build a portfolio of clients.
Networking and Applying Skills:
Leverage your existing professional network. Let people know about your career change and new skills.