How to become a bookkeeper

Many people think about retraining as a bookkeeper, as this can be a well paid, flexible and interesting role. In this article explore how to become a bookkeeper and what you can expect from bookkeeping jobs. 

What’s good about bookkeeping jobs?

One of the big benefits of bookkeeping for working parents is its flexibility. There are opportunities in employed roles, both part time and full time, or you could set up your own business. It’s common for bookkeepers to work from home while creating a meaningful career.

Bookkeeping is both interesting and in great demand, as companies of all sizes need support with this important financial role. Bookkeeping professionals face new challenges every day, making it a fulfilling and rewarding job.

On top of that, it’s a fairly well paid role. A bookkeeper salary ranges from £25,000 to £45,000 depending on the location.

What’s in a typical bookkeeping job description?

Bookkeeping jobs involve generating, recording and analysing data about an organisation’s financial transactions and operations. Typical jobs include:

• Processing payment runs
• Raising and managing invoices
• Recording purchases and managing receipts
• Supporting payroll
• Preparing VAT returns
• Assisting with year end accounting
• Preparing management accounts
• Working with internal/external accountants

Every bookkeeper job description will be unique depending on the size of the organisation and the requirements of the type of business.

What skills are needed to be a bookkeeper?

The main skills you need in bookkeeping are:

• numerical accuracy – you certainly need a head for numbers
• attention to detail – you will be checking and rechecking data
• analytical approach – it helps to enjoy challenges and problem solving
• strong communication skills – to explain things simply to colleagues and seniors
• good organisation skills – you will often need to prioritise your work
• computing skills – most bookkeeping is done via ever-changing software and apps.

What are the typical bookkeeper qualifications needed?

The big advantage of bookkeeping over accounting is that you won’t need a degree.

Some people don’t study for qualifications at all, and find an entry level job in a finance team and learn as they go.

But if you do want to do some training, It’s fairly straightforward to find appropriate courses at a local college or online. There are various options at diploma or certificate level.

The Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (ICB) is the main bookkeeping body, offering certificate and diploma courses through accredited providers. The Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) is another source of bookkeeping qualifications, and you can ultimately become an AAT licensed bookkeeper.

What job opportunities are there for bookkeepers?

The best way to understand what bookkeeping jobs look like in your area is to do a job search. Bookkeepers are always in demand and you will often find part-time or remote roles available.

There are also various apprenticeships available for bookkeepers – the government website is a good place to search for these.

Another option is to set up your own bookkeeping company. It may take time to build up your client base, but offering bookkeeping services can be a very rewarding career with low overheads.

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