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Job outlook for bookkeepers in the United States
Bookkeeper job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected bookkeeper job growth rate is -5% from 2018-2028.
About -77,200 new jobs for bookkeepers are projected over the next decade.
Bookkeeper salaries have increased 10% for bookkeepers in the last 5 years.
There are over 991,047 bookkeepers currently employed in the United States.
There are 38,481 active bookkeeper job openings in the US.
The average bookkeeper salary is $40,337.
Are bookkeeper jobs in demand?
Bookkeeper job and salary trends over time
Bookkeeper jobs over time
Bookkeeper job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 991,047 | 0.29% |
| 2020 | 951,944 | 0.28% |
| 2019 | 986,847 | 0.30% |
| 2018 | 992,000 | 0.30% |
| 2017 | 989,981 | 0.30% |
Average bookkeeper salary over time
Bookkeeper salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $40,337 | $19.39 | +2.9% |
| 2024 | $39,215 | $18.85 | +2.5% |
| 2023 | $38,273 | $18.40 | +2.5% |
| 2022 | $37,322 | $17.94 | +2.2% |
| 2021 | $36,514 | $17.55 | +3.1% |
Bookkeeper jobs by state
Most common states for bookkeepers
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 130 | 19% |
| 2 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 114 | 11% |
| 3 | Delaware | 961,939 | 92 | 10% |
| 4 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 546 | 8% |
| 5 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 153 | 8% |
| 6 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 102 | 8% |
| 7 | Vermont | 623,657 | 48 | 8% |
| 8 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 423 | 7% |
| 9 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 392 | 7% |
| 10 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 389 | 7% |
| 11 | Oregon | 4,142,776 | 302 | 7% |
| 12 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 54 | 7% |
| 13 | Alaska | 739,795 | 53 | 7% |
| 14 | Illinois | 12,802,023 | 793 | 6% |
| 15 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 521 | 6% |
| 16 | Tennessee | 6,715,984 | 383 | 6% |
| 17 | Connecticut | 3,588,184 | 205 | 6% |
| 18 | Iowa | 3,145,711 | 197 | 6% |
| 19 | Utah | 3,101,833 | 188 | 6% |
| 20 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 63 | 6% |
Most common cities for bookkeepers
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Land O Lakes | 3 | 9% | $37,824 |
| 2 | Redford | 3 | 6% | $37,583 |
| 3 | Sarasota | 3 | 5% | $37,947 |
| 4 | Coral Gables | 2 | 4% | $37,966 |
| 5 | Fort Lauderdale | 5 | 3% | $37,953 |
| 6 | Lowell | 3 | 3% | $46,875 |
| 7 | Miami | 7 | 2% | $37,964 |
| 8 | Boca Raton | 2 | 2% | $37,933 |
| 9 | Centennial | 2 | 2% | $38,748 |
| 10 | Denver | 4 | 1% | $38,756 |
| 11 | Minneapolis | 3 | 1% | $40,940 |
| 12 | Orlando | 3 | 1% | $37,769 |
| 13 | Saint Louis | 3 | 1% | $36,982 |
| 14 | Chicago | 5 | 0% | $40,943 |
| 15 | Los Angeles | 5 | 0% | $43,510 |
| 16 | San Diego | 4 | 0% | $43,130 |
| 17 | Baltimore | 2 | 0% | $44,673 |
| 18 | Boston | 2 | 0% | $47,119 |
Bookkeeper job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of bookkeeper experts
Henderson State University
Skyline College
Western Kentucky University
Oakland University
University of Missouri - St Louis
Muhlenberg College
Eastern Oregon University
University of California, Riverside
Indiana University Northwest
Eastern Illinois University
Misericordia University
Pacific Lutheran University
University of Maine Orono
Florida Atlantic University
What will help Bookkeepers increase their earning potential?
James Lawson: The ability to leverage AI (artificial intelligence). There is a lot of discussion regarding the impact of AI on society, but AI is another tool that accountants can use to complete their tasks and add value to their client relationships.
What general advice would you give to a Bookkeeper?
Lisa Bell MBA, CPA: Continuously improving on existing skills and learning new skills will set you apart from your counterparts. I used to tell students to pick an area and become a master. Now I tell them to seek certifications in different areas so they can be more well-rounded. I advise them to figure out the knowledge gaps in their organization. Then fill that gap for the organization and ask to be compensated for bringing value
What Bookkeeper skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Lisa Bell MBA, CPA: If students are unsure what type of accounting they would like to pursue, I advise them to apply at small to mid-size public accounting firms. Usually, they will get exposure to various types of work such as tax, audit, and consulting. Also, they are more likely to work with a wide range of industries. The experience provides new accountants with opportunities to learn where they fit!
What will help Bookkeepers increase their earning potential?
Lisa Bell MBA, CPA: Artificial Intelligence(AI) isn't changing accounting, but it is changing how accounting is performed. Organizations will need to learn how to leverage AI to decrease redundant data entry and increase data analysis. Effective use of AI can lead to significant increases in efficiencies which allow organizations to have a more competitive edge
What general advice would you give to a Bookkeeper?
Kirsten Cook: In accounting (like most other fields), I hope that graduates "began their careers" long before crossing the stage at commencement. That is, most college and universities offer a wealth of opportunities for students to interact with employers throughout their college careers. When an employer speaks in a class, holds an informational session, or tables at a career fair, make a point to introduce yourself, ask informed questions, and generally leave a favorable impression in that employer's mind. Also, if possible, complete one or more internships while in college to understand the culture of professional accounting before your first day of full-time employment after graduation.
What Bookkeeper skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Kirsten Cook:
Ten years ago, I would've said "soft skills" like verbal and written communication. Five years ago, data analytics was all the rage. I don't believe these skills have become any less important; rather, we must continue to layer on new skills to match the changing professional environment. Today, I encourage students to be technologically agile. For example, if you learned to use Alteryx in a class, but your new employer uses PowerBI, recognize the similarities between these programs and build on your existing knowledge to master the new tool. Also, stay abreast of developments in accounting by not only reading the business press but also by connecting with experts on social media like LinkedIn.
What will help Bookkeepers increase their earning potential?
Kirsten Cook:
Ten years ago, I would've said "soft skills" like verbal and written communication. Five years ago, data analytics was all the rage. I don't believe these skills have become any less important; rather, we must continue to layer on new skills to match the changing professional environment. Today, I encourage students to be technologically agile. For example, if you learned to use Alteryx in a class, but your new employer uses PowerBI, recognize the similarities between these programs and build on your existing knowledge to master the new tool. Also, stay abreast of developments in accounting by not only reading the business press but also by connecting with experts on social media like LinkedIn.
What general advice would you give to a Bookkeeper?
Ms. Leah Parker-Roth 15, CPA: One common criticism of accounting is the long hours and the demanding 'busy season.' However, based on my own experience working in public accounting, although there were long hours, I had the opportunity to work with various clients and was able to learn many skills, including sales tax, payroll preparation, financial statement preparation, bookkeeping, and tax return preparation.
What Bookkeeper skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Ms. Leah Parker-Roth 15, CPA: Accounting is an excellent field to enter right now because it isn't going anywhere. Even with advancements in artificial intelligence and automation, clients still need accountants to interpret complex tax laws and regulations that are constantly evolving. Accounting is the language of business and is a valuable skill to have. Moreover, accountants examine financial information to provide useful insights to clients, enabling them to make well-informed business decisions.
What will help Bookkeepers increase their earning potential?
Ms. Leah Parker-Roth 15, CPA: Due to the broad nature of accounting, it is challenging to describe an accountant's typical day-to-day life accurately. However, this is a good thing because there are various specific areas within accounting, such as public accounting and governmental accounting. Accounting professionals generally expect to perform a standard set of tasks and utilize specific skills, including analytical skills and effective communication with colleagues and clients. While anyone can gather and organize data, accountants possess the expertise to analyze and communicate the data. Accountants perform specific tasks, including preparing financial statements and tax returns, payroll processing, maintaining accounting systems, and providing consulting services.
What general advice would you give to a Bookkeeper?
Abbie Daly PhD, CPA: Accounting is often referred to as the "language of business" because accountants communicate financial information. So communication is an integral part of an accountant's day. For example, auditors and tax preparers meet with their clients to understand their financial information, and accountants at organizations prepare and communicate financial information to guide strategic decisions. To facilitate these communications, accountants analyze and interpret many data points. For example, in auditing the revenue recognized by a company, an auditor would examine the underlying transactions, contracts, and supporting documentation.
What Bookkeeper skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Abbie Daly PhD, CPA: There are so many career options for those with an accounting degree, that there is something for everyone to like. Further, accountants are consistently in demand, so accountants enjoy job security and good income. Accounting is often stereotyped as being a dull profession, but that couldn't be further from the truth. Accountants work in different industries and have different specializations so that it is an incredibly interesting career. Every organization needs an accountant, so someone with an accounting degree could be an accountant for a professional sports franchise or investigate business crimes as a forensic accountant for the FBI. Further, accounting is a noble career path for anyone wanting a career with purpose - ensuring that financial information is communicated with integrity supports a prosperous society.
What will help Bookkeepers increase their earning potential?
Abbie Daly PhD, CPA: Accounting has long been an excellent field to enter for those interested in any aspect of business - understanding a business requires speaking the language. However, now is an especially excellent time to enter the profession, as opportunities are plentiful with more accounting positions available than there are accountants. Further, rapid technological development is affecting the role of the accountant, with routine accounting tasks being automated as platforms such as artificial intelligence and blockchain become more widespread. This will increase accountants' efficiency so that accountants can spend their time on more value-added advisory and analytical tasks. Those entering the accounting profession with these skills will have boundless opportunities available to them. At UW-Whitewater, students acquire these skills by taking classes on accounting analytics, artificial intelligence, and blockchain.
Tony Viertel
Accounting Dept. CoordinatorSkyline College
Accounting And Related Services
What general advice would you give to a Bookkeeper?
Tony Viertel: This answer to this question depends on if an account is
working in public accounting or private industry. Public accountants perform the following
tasks:
a. Client communication: Public accountants frequently communicate with clients,
either in person, via phone calls, or through email. They discuss financial
matters, provide project updates, address client concerns, and gather necessary
information to complete tasks.
b. Auditing: For clients requiring audit services, public accountants conduct audits
to verify the accuracy and completeness of financial records. This involves
examining documents, conducting interviews, testing internal controls, and
assessing compliance with relevant regulations and accounting standards.
c. Tax preparation and planning: Public accountants assist clients with tax planning
strategies to minimize tax liabilities while ensuring compliance with tax laws and
regulations. They prepare and file tax returns for individuals, businesses, and
organizations.
d. Consulting Services: Public accountants offer consulting services to clients
seeking advice on various financial matters, such as budgeting, forecasting,
mergers and acquisitions, risk management, and internal controls improvement.
Accountants in private industry perform the following tasks:
a. Financial reporting: Private industry accountants are responsible for preparing
financial statements such as balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow
statements. These reports provide a snapshot of the company's financial health
and performance over a specific period.
b. Budgeting and forecasting: Accountants collaborate with management to develop
annual budgets and forecasts for revenue, expenses, and cash flow. They
monitor actual performance against budgeted figures, analyze variances, and
recommend adjustments to achieve financial goals.
c. Cost accounting: Accountants in private industry analyze the costs associated
with producing goods or services. They calculate product costs, track inventory
levels, and identify opportunities to reduce costs and improve efficiency.
d. Internal controls: Accountants design, implement, and monitor internal control
procedures to safeguard company assets, prevent fraud, and ensure compliance
with regulations and company policies. They may conduct internal audits to
assess control measures' effectiveness and identify improvement areas.
What will help Bookkeepers increase their earning potential?
Tony Viertel: We are looking for insights into what Accounting majors can expect at their jobs.
What Bookkeeper skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Tony Viertel: Stability and demand: Accounting is a fundamental function for businesses across
industries. There will always be a demand for skilled accountants to manage financial
records, ensure regulatory compliance, and provide strategic financial advice.
Diverse career opportunities: Accountants can work in various sectors such as public
accounting, corporate accounting, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and
academia. This diversity allows for flexibility and the opportunity to explore different
career paths.
Professional growth: The accounting profession offers numerous opportunities for
advancement, including obtaining certifications such as Certified Public Accountant
(CPA), Certified Management Accountant (CMA), or Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA).
These certifications can open doors to higher-paying positions and increased
responsibilities.
ď‚· Intellectual Challenge: Accounting involves problem-solving, analysis, and interpretation
of financial data. It requires critical thinking skills and attention to detail.
Stacy Bibelhauser Ph.D.
Associate ProfessorWestern Kentucky University
Accounting And Related Services
What general advice would you give to a Bookkeeper?
Stacy Bibelhauser Ph.D.: While obtaining CPA certification is not necessary for all accounting positions, it does set you up with some of the best opportunities to get high paying starting salaries. It's also important to negotiate or try to negotiate a higher salary than is in the original offer and it never hurts to ask.
What Bookkeeper skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Stacy Bibelhauser Ph.D.: Do your very best on every task you are asked to do and do not act as if a task is beneath you. You do not know who is watching, and your attitude and work ethic on each and every job will be noticed by those who are around you.
What will help Bookkeepers increase their earning potential?
Stacy Bibelhauser Ph.D.: The integration of data analytics with accounting-related jobs is already prevalent and will continue to impact the field. I also believe a good working knowledge of cybersecurity practices and policies will become essential in all areas of accounting.
Liang Fu Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Accounting, ChairOakland University
Finance And Financial Management Services
What general advice would you give to a Bookkeeper?
Liang Fu Ph.D.: Job opportunities and career growth trajectory.
What Bookkeeper skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Liang Fu Ph.D.: Really depends on what they do.
What will help Bookkeepers increase their earning potential?
Liang Fu Ph.D.: Dislike: accounting is not for everyone, degree requirements/licensing requirements can be challenging. And sometimes, long work hours are required.
Thomas Kozloski PhD, CPA, CGMA
Chair - Department of AccountingUniversity of Missouri - St Louis
Accounting And Related Services
What general advice would you give to a Bookkeeper?
Thomas Kozloski PhD, CPA, CGMA: This is an excellent time to enter the accounting profession! Not only because technology continues to remove some of the more mechanical tasks that used to be performed by a person, but also because there is an extreme shortage of accounting-educated personnel across the country, especially those seeking to enter the profession. This fact is increasing salaries and benefits as hiring companies compete to hire new professionals.
What Bookkeeper skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Thomas Kozloski PhD, CPA, CGMA: Accountants use their business and accounting knowledge and skills to assemble and analyze financial and operational data and communicate that information to various internal and external stakeholders of the entity they work for. This includes preparing financial reports including financial statements. Accountants may also work in the tax profession preparing tax reports and returns, and the auditing profession where they conduct procedures and tests to provide assurance that financial information is fairly stated.
What will help Bookkeepers increase their earning potential?
Thomas Kozloski PhD, CPA, CGMA: This is an excellent time to enter the accounting profession! Not only because technology continues to remove some of the more mechanical tasks that used to be performed by a person, but also because there is an extreme shortage of accounting-educated personnel across the country, especially those seeking to enter the profession. This fact is increasing salaries and benefits as hiring companies compete to hire new professionals.
What general advice would you give to a Bookkeeper?
Ermira Mazziotta MBA, CPA, CFE: Understand what is one skill that is needed, example cyber security, understanding and utilizing Ai and invest on learning that skill. Become the person with the answers that helps your team reach their goals.
What Bookkeeper skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Ermira Mazziotta MBA, CPA, CFE: Understand and know how to utilize technology. Learn as much as possible.
What will help Bookkeepers increase their earning potential?
Ermira Mazziotta MBA, CPA, CFE: Accounting students are in a very good position to land well paying jobs because of the demand. Most important advice I would give is to continue to learn and grow and invest in your professional growth by taking classes, working on different clients from different industries and most importantly network. If you have an option to work in the office, do that instead of working remotely. Making those face to face connections will help propel and grow your career.
Amber Lawson CPA
Assistant Professor of Practice in AccountingWhat general advice would you give to a Bookkeeper?
Amber Lawson CPA: Graduates beginning their careers in accounting need to continue to be willing to learn and easy to teach. The technical skills that are taught in the classroom are incredibly important and crucial to passing the CPA exam, but much of the necessary knowledge to succeed in the industry will come from on-the-job, in-the-moment training, so learning doesn't stop when you exit the classroom! I would also emphasize, given the importance of the license, that recent graduates should position themselves to take and pass all sections of the Certified Public Accountant ("CPA") exam as soon as possible. This may mean that the first year of your career is spent juggling both working and studying for the exam, but statistics and anecdotal evidence alike support the notion that the sooner you push towards accomplishing this goal, the more likely you are to achieve it!
What Bookkeeper skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Amber Lawson CPA: First and foremost, meeting the necessary requirements for your CPA license is crucial for maximizing your salary potential in any field of accounting. Becoming a CPA not only elevates your earning potential within your starting position, but also creates mobility should you choose to shift your career path. The license signals that you are truly a professional and is a recognizable badge of excellence and the effort you expended to achieve it. Additionally, regardless of where you start your accounting career, become an expert. Whether that is within a particular industry or in regards to a particular methodology, learn whatever you can. Again, this allows you to not only elevate yourself in your existing role, but gives you more value (in tandem with your CPA license) as a professional should you choose to change.
What will help Bookkeepers increase their earning potential?
Amber Lawson CPA: Two skill sets that are going to continue to gain importance in the field in the next 3-5 years will be the knowledge of and openness to using artificial intelligence and data analytics tools and a well-honed set of soft skills. While those two things may seem counterintuitive, they each will have their place in the industry. Undeniably, technological advancement will continue to change the approach to data-driven fields, like accounting. Being positioned to harness that technology to create efficiency in combination with your technical knowledge will propel you in your career and allow you to adapt to those changes. In regards to soft-skills, as we see more of the "data processing" aspect of the field being completed with efficient forms of technology, the job of the professional will need to change. Accountants, in particular, will need to fulfill a trusted business advisor role more so than a data input role. Being able to think critically, communicate efficiently, evoke confidence and collaboration among your teams and your clients, and just generally "humanize" the financial information industry will be crucial for being successful in the long term.
What general advice would you give to a Bookkeeper?
Ermira Mazziotta: Understand and know how to utilize technology. Learn as much as possible.
What Bookkeeper skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Ermira Mazziotta: Understand what is one skill that is needed, example cyber security, understanding and utilizing Ai and invest on learning that skill. Become the person with the answers that helps your team reach their goals.
What will help Bookkeepers increase their earning potential?
Ermira Mazziotta: Accounting students are in a very good position to land well paying jobs because of the demand. Most important advice I would give is to continue to learn and grow and invest in your professional growth by taking classes, working on different clients from different industries and most importantly network. If you have an option to work in the office, do that instead of working remotely. Making those face to face connections will help propel and grow your career.
Dr. Mohamed Abualhaija
Associate Professor of AccountingEastern Oregon University
Business/Commerce
What general advice would you give to a Bookkeeper?
Dr. Mohamed Abualhaija: In the corporate world, soft skills are critical, particularly for those starting careers in accounting, business, or similar fields. These skills help people deal with diverse situations at work and communicate with others more effectively. Communication, teamwork, problem-solving, leadership, flexibility, and emotional intelligence are all examples of essential soft skills.
What Bookkeeper skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Mohamed Abualhaija: Accounting students and graduates possess competencies that make them highly effective and trainable in related roles. Their attention to detail and analytical skills allow them to address challenges holistically and examine the wider influence on multiple components. They also have a comprehensive knowledge of various software and technologies, which makes it easier for them to adjust to changes in the workplace and advancements in technology. Moreover, accounting graduates and students demonstrate their practical knowledge and problem-solving skills by applying academic concepts to real-world scenarios. Employers can immensely profit from their capacity to handle challenges and thrive on difficult tasks. They have a unique combination of soft skills and technical knowledge that make them especially prepared for success in different business and commerce sittings.
What will help Bookkeepers increase their earning potential?
Dr. Mohamed Abualhaija: Soft skills like teamwork, leadership, problem-solving, communication, and flexibility are also essential for launching a successful career after earning an accounting, business, or commerce degree. While teamwork entails collaboration, consideration for the views of others, and conflict resolution, effective communication entails the clear expression of ideas and attentive listening. Problem-solving skills require critical thinking and creativity to address complicated situations, but leadership traits require initiative, motivation, and accountability. Adaptability is essential in managing the dynamic corporate world, which necessitates flexibility, readiness to change, and resilience. In order to succeed in a variety of business settings and stand out in the competitive job market, it is imperative that these soft skills be developed through real-world experiences, feedback, and ongoing education.
Eric Allen
Assistant ProfessorUniversity of California, Riverside
Accounting And Related Services
What general advice would you give to a Bookkeeper?
Eric Allen: I'm not going to lie, busy seasons can be rough. There will be certain times of the year where you just have to put your head down and put in long hours. That can be tough for a lot of people. But if you can handle that, it's a great profession. You constantly have the opportunity to learn new things and interact with all kinds of individuals and companies. The skills you learn are also highly transferable, and every industry you can think of needs an accountant or someone with accounting skills. I personally got to work in the entertainment and sports industries before going into academia which was a lot of fun and a direct result of my accounting background. Basically, if you want to eventually do anything business related, the skills you learn as an accountant can open a lot of doors.
What Bookkeeper skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Eric Allen: Busy seasons can be rough, with certain times of the year where you just have to put your head down and put in long hours, which can be tough for a lot of people. However, if you can handle that, it's a great profession. You constantly have the opportunity to learn new things and interact with all kinds of individuals and companies. The skills you learn are also highly transferable, and every industry you can think of needs an accountant or someone with accounting skills. The skills learned as an accountant can open a lot of doors for those interested in business-related careers.
What will help Bookkeepers increase their earning potential?
Eric Allen: It really depends on the type of employer you're working for. If you're working for a public accounting firm you'll most likely start as a staff auditor or staff tax preparer. In both roles you'll be responsible for reviewing client information and organizing it in a way that allows the firm to conduct an audit or prepare a tax return. In an audit role you'll often be asked to go observe and document certain aspects of a client's operations. In a tax role you may be responsible for taking the initial pass through a tax return and do research into specific tax positions.
ALternatively, if you're an accountant for a private company you'll most likely be assigned to a specific sector such as payroll, accounts payable or budgeting, and be responsible for recording transactions in that area and preparing reports that your managers can use to make decisions.
Jaclyn Barkow
Clinical Assistant Professor of AccountingIndiana University Northwest
Accounting Department
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Bookkeepers?
Jaclyn Barkow: In my opinion, the enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the accounting profession includes more flexibility on working from home, more requirements on adhering to strict technological safeguards of client information, greater adaptability to adjust the work environment as needed.
Working with sensitive information will require organizations to maintain effective internal controls and security controls to avoid instances of fraud or interception of client information. If the best firewalls and controls are not in place, moving to a virtual environment could lead to identity theft, hacking, and other fraud. Accounting professionals must understand how working from home or other remote locations puts sensitive information at risk and what measures must be taken to protect such information.
The pandemic required many organizations to adjust the workplace in many ways. Workspaces spread out, and able individuals began working from home. This may continue as the workplace could continue to be equally successful with individuals working remotely. This may result in a more flexible schedule or work from home option for accountants. Doing so would also require individuals to be exceptional with communication and adaptability as you must be able to engage with colleagues and clients without meeting face to face.
What type of skills will young Bookkeepers need?
Jaclyn Barkow: In addition to the accounting skills necessary to perform the position's duties, communication, problem-solving, ability to ask questions, and adaptability are also excellent skills to hold. While the skills learned in each accounting course are vital to success, these additional skills will help to set young accountants apart from others who have limited skills in these areas.
Effective communication is so important in the accounting industry. Young accountants must be able to speak and write clearly to colleagues, superiors, and clients. Communication is not just being able to hold a conversation. Accountants must be able to discuss information in a manner that is clear and concise. Part of communication is also being able to ask the right questions and learn from the responses received. Young accountants must ask questions to guide the learning process. Part of asking questions is to learn from the process and avoid asking the same question repeatedly.
Accountants must be able to critically evaluate information and problem solve as necessary. Textbook assignments tend to be very clear on what items are needed or not needed, but such is not always the scenario in the workplace. Young accountants must be confident in their understanding of accounting concepts and critically evaluate problems presented on a case-by-case basis.
What experience really stands out on Bookkeeper resumes?
Jaclyn Barkow: From employers I have spoken with in the past, the experience that stands out is having some type of internship. While it does not have to be in the precise area of the employer's industry, my observations have been that employers like to see that they have some type of hands-on experience. In addition, employers also speak highly of being involved on campus, in various clubs, and positive community involvement.
Dr. Nicholas Robinson
Director of AccountancyEastern Illinois University
EIU School of Business
What skills stand out on Bookkeeper resumes?
Dr. Nicholas Robinson: In a general sense, the skills that are most impactful on a resume are demonstrating success when faced with a problem. This can be difficult to convey on a resume, but if you can show problems or challenges that you face, how you overcame them, and the resolution of the problem, recruiters love that more than almost anything.
Showing the ability to overcome and solve problems illustrates your skills in a practical way that will be beneficial to the company you are applying to. Every business has challenges. If you can help solve them, you are invaluable. Demonstrating a history of problem-solving will certainly make you stand out amongst the applicant pool.
What soft skills should all Bookkeepers possess?
Dr. Nicholas Robinson: Thinking of the less than the obvious answer would be the ability to ask questions the right way. If something is unclear or you just cannot figure it out, ask a question. The key part to this is TRYING to figure it out first and understanding when you are wasting your own time not getting anywhere. People will respect that you tried before coming to them for help. Another aspect of asking questions is listening to the answer. Make sure the answer is clear, and you know where or what you are supposed to do from there. Carry a notebook or something like that to both write down the questions you have on your project and their answers. I always find it impressive when people take notes and pay attention to the answer because it happens far too often that people ask questions but never listen to the response.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Bookkeepers?
Dr. Nicholas Robinson: Excel, excel, excel. It does not matter how much you know in Excel. There is always something more to learn, improve upon, or make more efficient. If you are coming straight out of school, you may have had a lot of exposure to Excel, but if you are not using it every day in a work-like setting, you can get slow and forget how things work. Know how to look up techniques and tools. You will spend much of your working life dealing with Excel spreadsheets, so be sure you are comfortable with them.
What skills will help Bookkeepers earn the most?
Dr. Nicholas Robinson: Management and sales. If you can rise above your peers as a manager, you will make more. If you can drive sales, you will make more. If you enter an accounting firm and have the ability to not just do the work but can efficiently manage a team to do the work, you will be promoted to that position. Similarly, if you can attract more clients to the firm, you will become far more valuable to the firm. Your ability to create new revenue will be rewarded.
Working for a business as an internal accountant likely would not present the opportunity to drive new business. Promotion and raises will be determined by your ability to lead a team.
Charles Makar
Instructor of BusinessMisericordia University
Business Department
What hard/technical skills are most important for Bookkeepers?
Charles Makar: Ability to write and understand journal entries; prepare and interpret financial statements; prepare tax returns; understand job-order costing, process costing, and activity-based costing; working knowledge of GAAP and GAAS.
What skills stand out on Bookkeeper resumes?
Charles Makar: Technical competence in financial accounting, auditing, taxation, and cost/managerial accounting.
What soft skills should all Bookkeepers possess?
Charles Makar: Communications skills (oral and written).
What skills will help Bookkeepers earn the most?
Charles Makar: Auditing and tax preparation skills.
Abby Xin Liu Ph.D.
Assistant ProfessorPacific Lutheran University
School of Business
What skills stand out on Bookkeeper resumes?
Abby Xin Liu Ph.D.: Writing and communication skills were mentioned frequently by the recruiters. In addition, lots of recruiters mentioned having a good attitude for learning new things.
What soft skills should all Bookkeepers possess?
Abby Xin Liu Ph.D.: People skills or communication skills.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Bookkeepers?
Abby Xin Liu Ph.D.: Software skills.
What skills will help Bookkeepers earn the most?
Abby Xin Liu Ph.D.: Generally, having professional licenses is related to a higher salary level.
Dr. Henri Akono Ph.D.
Associate Professor of AccountingUniversity of Maine Orono
Maine Business School
What skills stand out on Bookkeeper resumes?
Dr. Henri Akono Ph.D.: -Both hard and soft skills are important for an accountant's success and should be included in accountants' resumes. To the extent possible, candidates should tailor their skills (on the resume) to the type of job they seek.
-Hard accounting skills encompass:
-Financial Accounting and Reporting
-Understanding of accounting rules and regulations (GAAP)
-Recording of journal entries & compilation of financial reports
-Ratio analysis or Financial statement analysis (for master level candidates)
-Some basic Financial modeling
-Controllership
-Budgeting
-Cost management
-Performance metrics
-Some financial reporting
-Business strategy and processes
-Internal controls
-Cost analytics (regressions, visualizations, etc.)
-Tax
-Tax reporting
-Tax compliance (federal vs. individual or both)
-Audit
-Auditing standards (PCAOB/AICPA)
-Audit risk assessment
-Audit procedures planning and substantive
-Analytical procedures
-Internal controls
-Materiality
-Audit Analytics (Alteryx, Tableau, PowerBi, etc.)
-Analytics for accounting/audit/tax
-Usage of software such as Excel to complete accounting-related tasks
-Use of visualization tools such as Tableau to complete accounting-related tasks
-Certifications
-CPA or intent to complete this
-CMA or intent to complete this
-Excel at least basic
What soft skills should all Bookkeepers possess?
Dr. Henri Akono Ph.D.: -Teamwork
-Ability to work in teams (team-oriented)
-Interact with teammates
-Contribute to the team's work
-Keep the team on track
-Working remotely
-Communication (both written and oral)
-Written communication
-Memos
-Short papers
-Emails
-Oral communication
-PowerPoint presentations
-Use and quality of visual aids
-Making presentation videos using software such as zoom or Kaltura
-Others
-Time management
-Working under pressure
-Ability to complete the work within deadlines
-Self-motivation
-Attention to details
-Goal-oriented
-Understand firm strategy and objectives to the extent possible.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Bookkeepers?
Dr. Henri Akono Ph.D.: -In today's environment, with greater usage of data big and small by companies, accountants are expected to have a better understanding of accounting analytics and a greater ability to analyze and identify patterns in data. Therefore, accounting analytics is a very important skill for accountants today.
-Just knowing excel is not enough. Being able to use software like excel QuickBooks for accounting/controllership/audit/tax-related decisions is a plus.
-In addition, being able to use visualization software like Tableau or Power BI is also a plus.
-Some type of analytics certification (Excel, general analytics, etc.) is a plus.
-However, this does not substitute for accounting-related knowledge and understanding.
What skills will help Bookkeepers earn the most?
Dr. Henri Akono Ph.D.: -Most accounting jobs pay really well, and there is demand.
-So, having knowledge and understanding of accounting analytics is definitely very important, but companies still operate and have a need for traditional accountants.
In summary:
Accountants need to demonstrate knowledge of their area of interest, ability to solve problems in their area of interest, ability to use analytics for accounting-related purposes and decisions, ability to communicate both orally and in writing, ability to work and contribute to team success, commitment to meeting deadlines, and ability to perform tasks under pressure or time constraints.
What skills stand out on Bookkeeper resumes?
Dr. George Young: Skills pertaining to software, especially software used to analyze data for reasonableness, classification non-conformity, other errors, and fraud, will always be eye-catching to employers. Students should also not overlook participation in activities that represent a contribution to the greater good. Activities like Habitat for Humanity and the local Helping Hands organizations not only convey the willingness to benefit others but also conveys the skill of getting along with others while working on a common goal.
What soft skills should all Bookkeepers possess?
Dr. George Young: The soft skills of communicating orally and in writing will always be more important. These skills, which develop over time, enable one to minimize misunderstandings and convey messages with sufficient clarity that they contribute to the mission of the employer. Related to communication is the skill of interacting with others; exercise of this skill allows the creation and maintenance of a more respectful and inclusive environment. Every student should remember this: The practice of honing the skill of treating others with fairness and respect not only increases the likelihood that the employer's firm succeeds, but it also increases the likelihood that the student will continue to experience success in life.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Bookkeepers?
Dr. George Young: Besides becoming fluent in accounting, which is the language of business, students should take every opportunity to learn more about spreadsheet software such as Excel and increase their skills in using Tableau. These types of software enable accountants to analyze, summarize, and communicate their results in an understandable manner.
What skills will help Bookkeepers earn the most?
Dr. George Young: There are several skills that will help you earn the most. One skill is the ability to incorporate changes to the accounting and business landscape (the first step is to keep current with accounting, auditing, and tax standards, as well as learn new types of software that are developed). Another skill is the ability to interact well with others; we do not achieve success by ourselves. Still another skill is the ability to look for opportunities in every situation - even those that do not appear to contain opportunities. If you do not feel you have these skills now, never fear - these are skills that you can acquire and improve!