Becoming certified to work in a different sector can give us a new lease of life. If we stopped procrastinating and took control of our lives, we could soon be enjoying the rewards and motivation that a fresh new working environment would give us.
Which Direction Should I Take?Selecting the right career to move into can be a bit daunting. Yes we need to do something, but how can we be sure that a move would bring the results we're looking for? Something to consider - you could build a very substantial career if you train and qualify in book-keeping, finance or accountancy. You'd certainly be able to achieve recognition for your efforts, and get paid well into the bargain!
Of course there are many training options available - what you'll have to do is identify the profession you're going for first, and then find suitable training to qualify you for it. There are jobs for Cashiers, Book-Keepers and Accounts Clerks at entry level. Then as you become more experienced and qualified that could lead on to becoming a Sales or Purchase Ledger Manager or Finance 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. Reassure yourself that any courses you're contemplating are industry- recognised. It's essential that the certifications you take are the ones employers are looking for.
There are a range of different skills and subjects to pick up when working in this industry. If this is your first experience of it, you'll need to go through all the basics. 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. These might include Capital Expenditure, Final Accounts, Accounting Packages and the operation of an Accounting System, Ethics and Regulatory Standards and Policies.
If you're looking to become qualified in Book-Keeping or Accountancy, you can choose to work in whichever industrial sector appeals to you the most. There's so much choice because every business in the land has to do their accounting. You might be expected to deal with all financial matters in a small business, or be part of a large team in a major corporation. There are jobs working for the council or MOD as well as private industry. It's not unusual for an organisation's high flyers to have come from accounting backgrounds. Finally you could work for yourself, looking after the books for a number of one man or woman businesses in your locality.
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. Financial work is suited to assiduous and well organised people.
And obviously you'll need to be able to keep your work confidential, as it's not appropriate to chat to others about the financial affairs of your company.
"Look at a day when you are supremely satisfied at the end. It's not a day when you lounge around doing nothing; it's when you've had everything to do, and you've done it." - Margaret Thatcher.
Start Looking Now!There are a great number of training companies offering financial and accounting certifications. The only way to really find the right one for you is to thoroughly research the market. Think of the research you do as an exploratory project - you need to read through several, look at testimonials and get an understanding of their teaching methods before you can decide.
Some courses follow a strict timetable, where all students work through the programme together. Others leave you to work alone at home. It will depend on whether you like the idea of a student community, or might feel self-conscious amongst others - plus your availability for college attendance of course.
Shortlist a handful, then to get an idea of how satisfactory their training is, request some examples of the coursework and see how you get on with it. Then trust your instincts and begin training. There's nothing better than being actively involved in the pursuit of your dreams and goals. You know you're worth it!