A Day in the Life of a Bookkeeper⁽¹⁾

Careers in Bookkeeping

Bookkeepers are financial record-keepers who help companies, government agencies, and individuals manage financial transactions. Attention to detail is a large part of a bookkeeper's job since he or she must keep meticulous financial records.

What Does a Bookkeeping Career Involve?

Depending on the size of the entity, a bookkeeper may maintain the entire organization's books or only handle one specific facet of the finances. Bookkeepers may perform some or all of the following tasks:

• Record and post debits and credits
• Prepare reports and summaries for management
• Prepare and complete bank deposits
• Prepare invoices
• Track overdue accounts
• Attend meetings
• Reconcile accounts
• Update and maintain accounting records

Technical Skills that can Assist in a Bookkeeping Career

Many organizations have computerized their financial records. As a result, some bookkeepers may be required to use accounting software, spreadsheets, and databases. Along with computer skills, good communications skills are important for bookkeepers because they may be required to make phone calls or send letters to customers and clients. Financial records are often considered private and confidential, so bookkeepers must be discreet.

Getting There: Bookkeeping Education and Training

It is becoming increasingly important to some employers that they hire bookkeepers who possess higher education. Degrees or coursework in accounting and business may be required for some bookkeeping positions. Some accounting degree programs may give students the foundation they need to work in finance and bookkeeping with courses in mathematics, accounting, taxation, business ethics, economics, and financial markets.

While certification is not mandatory to work as a bookkeeper, some bookkeepers may decide to become certified by the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers.