Weighing the Journey: Is Becoming a Certified Bookkeeper in Your Future?
Running a retail business for over a decade has given me a wealth of experience, particularly through my hands-on approach to managing the company’s finances. For the past three years, I’ve been responsible for all the bookwork on QuickBooks Online (QBO), and let me tell you—I genuinely enjoy it. The thrill of working with numbers and overseeing financial management feels less like work and more like a passion project. Handling the Bookkeeping has not only fine-tuned my understanding of the company’s financial standing but has also significantly influenced strategic decision-making.
Despite lacking formal education in Accounting, my skills have dramatically evolved through self-directed learning. Between scouring the internet for knowledge, testing various methods, and occasionally turning to my CPA for advice, I’ve developed a strong competency in this field. My CPA often praises the quality of my Bookkeeping skills, particularly within the context of my own business operations.
Lately, I’ve been pondering the idea of formalizing my education. Pursuing a certification or enrolling in a course could fill in the gaps in my expertise, especially regarding accounts payable and accounts receivable, areas with which I’m less familiar due to their absence in my business model. Moreover, enhancing my credentials might pave the way for offering Bookkeeping services to other small enterprises.
Considering the options, I recently discovered the QuickBooks ProAdvisor certification course, which I believe is offered for free. I’m curious—could this be the stepping stone I need to kickstart this new chapter in my career?
One response
Embarking on the path to becoming a certified bookkeeper is a commendable decision, especially considering your experience and passion for numbers and financial management. It’s clear that you already possess a solid understanding of Bookkeeping, as evidenced by your successful management of your company’s financials over the past three years. However, formal education can elevate your skills, broaden your knowledge, and add professional credibility that could be advantageous if you decide to offer Bookkeeping services to other businesses.
Here’s a roadmap you might find useful:
Assess Your Current Skills and Knowledge: Begin by evaluating what you already know and what specific areas you need to improve. You’ve noted a lack of experience in accounts payable (AP) and accounts receivable (AR). Identifying these gaps will help you zero in on suitable courses and certifications that can enhance these skills.
Explore Certification Options:
Bookkeeping Certification Programs: Consider programs offered by recognized institutions such as the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB) or the National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers (NACPB). These certifications focus on fundamental and advanced bookkeeping principles and will cover areas like AP, AR, payroll, and more.
Broaden Your Bookkeeping Knowledge:
Workshops and Webinars: Join workshops and webinars provided by Accounting bodies and software companies. These usually cover emerging trends and new technologies in bookkeeping.
Leverage Online Learning Platforms: Websites like Coursera, Udemy, or LinkedIn Learning offer courses on financial management and Accounting principles. These platforms often provide you with flexible learning schedules, enabling you to continue managing your business while studying.
Network with Other Professionals: Engage with communities of bookkeepers, either online through forums and LinkedIn groups or in-person at industry events. Networking can provide insights, answer questions, and even offer opportunities to practice your skills through volunteering or part-time work.
Integration Practice: Consider how