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Financial Careers - The Certified Accounting Technician

Getting back into training for a new career could be just what we're looking for! So many of us put up with the wrong job for far too long, when with a bit of effort we can find and work towards a career that suits our personality much better.

What Course Should I Choose?

Selecting the right career to move into can be a bit daunting. It's one thing to know that we need to change, but quite another to be sure the change we have in mind is the right one. Many people find a new career in book-keeping or accountancy provides the answer - maybe this could be something for you? You'll be respected as a professional by your peers, and can anticipate a generous remuneration package as your career progresses.

Obviously training programmes cover a diverse range of subjects; so you'll have to work out the job or career you'd ultimately like to be working in, and then do the appropriate studying to get you there. You might start as an Accounts Clerk, a Purchase Ledger Clerk, a Book-Keeper or a Cashier. And then as time goes on, if you continue to up-grade your certifications you could reach the level of, say, Purchase Ledger Manager or Sales Ledger Manager. You'll see a good range of training providers on this page (especially if you 'refresh' or come back to it frequently). Use them to learn the different options that are available to you, and to compare the benefits offered by each of them. Check that any training you short-list will prepare you for well-acknowledged exams. You must be able to provide future employers with established certifications.

Which Subjects Are Taught?

If this training is going to be your introduction to the industry, there will be certain essentials that you'll need to get to grips with. Such things as computerised and manual systems, VAT, cash books, credit control, trial balance, day books and payroll will be covered. When you're ready to enhance your skills further, there are more complex procedures to tackle. So here you could learn about methods of stock valuation, Limited Liability companies, manufacturing accounts, final accounts and capital expenditure for example.

Who Might I Work For?

After you've trained and qualified you'll have the opportunity to seek employment in whichever sector of industry or commerce you choose. You're not restricted to one narrow area as the law requires all commercial organisations to keep records. Some accountancy staff work as part of a big team, whereas others look after the whole thing for a small business. Many company directors once had jobs in accountancy or finance, and progressed to the top through diligence and hard work. On the other hand, why not consider becoming self-employed (maybe after a year or two in industry) and do the accounts for other self-employed people?

Am I The Right Sort Of Person For This?

Of course you will have to demonstrate your ability in the maths department! But if you're also the sort of person who is very task-oriented, and can patiently and methodically work until the job's done then you'll do very well in this field. Jobs in finance are for people who can think logically.

Finally, the work is often of a confidential nature, and so you must be very honest and ethical.

"You can't build a reputation on what you're going to do." - Henry Ford.

Start Looking Now!

There really are a great number of options available with regard to training and certification. Detailed research is the only way to discover the optimum route for you. As we previously alluded to, you won't know enough if you only find one - the more different organisations you read about, the more you'll discover what you like or dislike about the courses they offer, and their back-up and support. You might want to be left to work through the syllabus in your own time, or feel more reassured if you have deadlines and classroom sessions. There isn't necessarily a best answer - just a best answer for you and your preferences and circumstances.

When you've narrowed your options down, ask to be sent an example of their training materials - that way you'll know what to expect. But ultimately the thing to do is to get on with it. Beginning is half done, as they say, so delay no more - your future depends on it. Here's to your success!