Bookkeepers wear many hats. Beyond the simple act of managing the financial accounts for a business, bookkeepers are also entrusted to help advise on financial decisions for a business, as well as to ensure their accounts are up-to-date. Finally, a great bookkeeper keeps track of legislation or changes that are relevant to a company’s financial health. A great bookkeeper is an invaluable asset for any business.
With advances in technology, it’s possible for bookkeepers to work from anywhere. Many bookkeepers will have multiple clients, although you may find yourself working for one company. Your hours will largely fall during regular business hours, as you will need to devote time to contacting vendors or customers, as well as corresponding with management. Overtime may be required at busier times of the year, such as fiscal year end or tax season.
Working as a bookkeeper can have several different paths. You may choose to work on a freelance basis for a variety of clients, and own your own bookkeeping business. You can also use your skills and knowledge for roles in accounting or finance.
Bookkeepers working in the Guelph area can expect to earn an average annual salary of $38,600 per year, or $20.10 per hour. Here is a more detailed salary breakdown:
annual: $38,600 per year
monthly: $3,217
weekly: $804
hourly: $20.10
lowest salary: $34,200 per year
average salary: $38,600 per year
highest salary: $43,400 per year
junior salary: $34,200-$38,500 per year
intermediate salary: $36,000-$41,200 per year
senior salary: $37,900-$43,400 per year
A bookkeeper is responsible for a variety of tasks in order to properly maintain and record necessary information for a company’s financial ledger (or “books”). Here are some of the tasks you can expect as a bookkeeper:
Bookkeepers are typically found working for small business, as well as not for profits. However, their skills and knowledge are necessary in any industry. Once you have the necessary knowledge to work as a bookkeeper you can typically work in any industry: from consumer goods to service.
Bookkeepers don’t tend to have rigorous schooling (typically employers look for basic accounting knowledge), however, several soft skills are necessary to ensure success:
Most employers looking to hire a bookkeeper are looking for someone who has a degree in a related field, such as accounting. However, experience in the field is also considered instead of formal education. Any additional relevant courses will also be considered an asset.