CareersOpportunity.co.uk

Studying Financial & Accountancy Courses

Why shouldn't we bite the bullet and retrain for a new career? Rather than trudging to the same old job that we've been frustrated with for ages, we could take charge of our lives and build a career that satisfies and rewards us.

Which Re-training Course Is Right For Me?

Selecting the right career to move into can be a bit daunting. We need to make a list of what we want in our new career, and probably equally importantly what we don't want.

Many people find a new career in book-keeping or accountancy provides the answer - maybe this could be something for you? Colleagues usually have a high regard for accounting personnel, and salaries reflect the important work they do.

Clearly there are many training routes a student can take - so research the job you want to do first, and then look on training sites to see who can teach you how to do it. Entry level accounting work often deals with purchase ledgers, or book-keeping. As your knowledge and working experience builds, with application you could become a Finance Team Leader or Manager.

There are always several different training companies promoting themselves on this page. You'll see more every time you visit, so it's worth typing Ctrl D to bookmark us. Weigh several up against each other, by comparing things like quality of training, delivery and price. Be wary of courses that only offer college accreditations. You don't want to put effort in and find that employers don't value your certificates.

What Should I Be Taught?

To be deemed ready for employment, there will be a number of essentials you'll need to become familiar with. This list is by no means exhaustive, but you can expect to learn manual and computer systems, payroll, credit control, double entry, business law, reconciliations and vat. There are also more advanced book-keeping and accounts subjects, for those already with experience. So here you could learn about methods of stock valuation, Limited Liability companies, manufacturing accounts, final accounts and capital expenditure for example.

What Work Is Available?

You can take your pick of the industry or government body you want to work in if you gain reputable certifications in accounts related subjects. You have plenty of scope as every company needs at least one person to deal with their finances. You may prefer to be a member of a large team, or take responsibility for the entire finances of a small operation. You could seek employment in either the public or the private sector - the chances for career progression are there in both sectors. Alternatively of course you could start your own Book-Keeping business and deal with the tax affairs of several small companies.

Is This Really The Career For Me?

Obviously you'll need a good head for figures - that goes without saying. But if you also take pleasure in working thoroughly and steadily, and paying meticulous attention to the detail of the job you're doing then this work is probably for you. People who like systems and order make good book-keepers and accounting staff.

Employers rely heavily on their financial and accounting staff, and so they look for people who are completely trustworthy and loyal.

"Failure is the path of least persistence." - Anon.

Research Your Training Alternatives

A vast number of training providers and colleges offer various accounting study programmes. You must take time to do your research to find the one that's best for you.

It's a mistake to look at one and think you know enough - 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.

Whilst some colleges offer all home-based study with tutor support upon request, others are all class-based. A third category have a blend of both. You might feel more comfortable in a classroom with others, or you might prefer to dictate your own pace - plus geography and location will also come into it.

Finally, shortlist two or three and see if you can get hold of a taster of the coursework. Then you can see the standard of each. But ultimately the thing to do is to get on with it. Once you've made your verdict, you'll be swept along with the momentum of your bright new future career. All the Best!