Bookkeeping and Accounting Clerks: Job Description, Education, Skills and Duties, Earnings and Outlook
Submitted by: paula
Job Overview Bookkeeping had been used since 2600 b.c. when pointed sticks was used by Babylonians to mark accounts on clay slabs. Trade started the need for bookkeepers. Bookkeeping system continues to expand while financial records of industries become complex. Today, the system uses quick and simple procedures and methods. New technology plays an important role in making bookkeeping record system easy by developing electronic data processing, bookkeeping machines, computer hardware and software.
Education, Knowledge and Trainings Required
High school diploma is needed to be a bookkeeper and accounting clerk. Strong background in Business Writing, Computer, Typing and Business Mathematics is recommended. It is essential to develop communication skills through English class. Most employers prefer applicants to have a junior college curriculum or attended post-high school training program in business. On-the-job training are offered by employers for various positions. Training programs include part-time work with academic study.Voluntary certification is also offered for applicants with at least two years of experience. They need to pass the examination by the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers to be a certified bookkeeper.
Skills and Abilities
Strong mathematical ability is needed when pursuing a career as a bookkeeper or accounting clerk. They should be focused with their work and have organizational skills. It is important for them to be accurate, orderly and methodical. Since they are handling financial transaction, employers would want someone who is trustworthy, discreet and honest.
Duties
It is important to keep systematic records of financial transaction and this is maintained by bookkeeping and accounting clerks.
They are responsible in recording the assets and liabilities of institutions, businesses, charities, industries and organizations. They also document profits and losses. They use computer databases to document daily business transactions. Some bookkeepers are involved in sorting and recording bills, inventory lists, sales slips and requisition lists. It is their duty to compile amounts for accounts receivable and payable, profits and losses and cash receipts. Clerical accounting job is handled by accounting clerks. Their duty is to verify an enter the transaction information as well as record and compute charges.
Earnings and Job Outlook
The type and size of the business where they are employed and the size of the city is factors that are considered to compute the income of bookkeepers and accounting clerks. Those who are starting in the field earn around $19,030. Average income for the year 2005 is $29,460. Automation of office function is a reason why bookkeepers and accounting clerks demand will decrease in the coming years. The productivity of the worker will improve because of the latest technology but lessworkers will be needed. Competition will be high among applicants and it those who have excellent computer skills will be preferred.
Paula Hiz is a researcher and a human resource specialist who helps newly graduates, job applicants and post graduate professionals be aware of their job opportunities and available trainings for skills and practice upgrading.
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