Most people do not consider a career as a certified bookkeeper because, for years, bookkeeping has been synonymous with secretarial and administrative work. While this is still true to an extent, a certified bookkeeper can make far more than your average company receptionist, and university-level training will ensure a full and prosperous career. What’s more, bookkeepers are always needed for companies in both the profit and non-profit sectors, so job security is high.
What does it mean to be certified?
A certified bookkeeper is an individual who has at least two years of bookkeeping experience and has earned certification through the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers. These professionals will likely earn more money than those who are not certified, and might receive priority placement when it comes to finding a job. A bookkeeper with certification will also be more likely to succeed as an entrepreneur.
In order to become a certified bookkeeper, applicants must pass a four-part national exam, two parts of which must be completed at a Prometric test site. They must also be willing to sign a code of ethics and abide by the rules of the AIPB. Applicants who have already earned a degree in bookkeeping might want to pursue certification because it is a different level of education.
Finding work as a certified bookkeeper
Finding a job as a certified bookkeeper isn’t as difficult as with many other career choices. For one thing, just about every company and corporation in American requires accounting employees to record transactions, inventory and other financial data. The best way to find a job, however, is to either become a member of the AIPB, which will introduce you to industry contacts, or to graduate from a school that offers employment assistance upon graduation.
It is also possible for a certified bookkeeper to start his or her own business. Just like other industries, many companies are outsourcing their accounting needs rather than hiring in-house employees. This opens up many revenue streams that come with both flexibility and high income. If you enjoy working on your own and possess an entrepreneurial spirit, this might be the best choice for you.
Moving Up in the World
According to StateUniversity.org, a certified bookkeeper has numerous opportunities for advancement. If you work for a large corporation, for example, it is likely that you will start at the bottom of the totem pole, such as working in accounts receivable. Once you have proven your abilities, you can advance upward through the ranks, perhaps topping out at a senior bookkeeping representative.
A certified bookkeeper already has significant training and experience, but each employer is different. It is a good idea to choose a good company to work for, then to spend the majority of your career with them. You’ll learn their particular needs pertaining to bookkeeping, and transitioning to a new company can be difficult. Furthermore, many companies offer continuing education programs that a certified bookkeeper can take advantage of.
If you’ve decided that you would like to become a certified bookkeeper, start by visiting the AIPB web site, then search for a school near you that offers courses in bookkeeping. An education is vital in this career path, and you’ll make far more as a college graduate than if you’d entered the work force with only a high school degree. Once you’ve gained two years of full-time experience, you can apply for certification.
Sources:
AIPB.org, Certification Program
StateUniversity.org, Certified Bookkeeper
