11 skills and qualities bookkeepers need
Bookkeeping is a secure and rewarding career path that paves the way for you to work in any industry across the world. Although responsibilities will vary from job to job, there’s a wide range of core skills that all bookkeepers need to master.
Here’s a whistle-stop tour of the 11 most desirable bookkeeping traits:
1. Happy working with numbers
Yep, you guessed it. Professional bookkeepers are comfortable working with numbers.
Now we’re not saying that you need to be a mathematical genius. But basic addition, multiplication and division skills will help to prepare you for a career in bookkeeping.
If maths isn’t your forte don’t let this put you off. Tools like calculators, spreadsheets and software will help you complete routine tasks faster than ever before.
2. Organisation and time management
No day is ever the same for a bookkeeper. From pre-planned projects to last-minute requests each week will have various tasks that need urgent action.
To stay on track, effective organisation and time management are essential. There are dozens of tips, tools and techniques you can use to manage your workload.
For example, we recommend that you prioritise your most important tasks. With this technique, you’ll have a clear idea of any upcoming deadlines. You can even take things one step further and add these tasks to your calendar to ensure you have enough time to work on them.
3. Data entry and technology
Thanks to bespoke accounting software you no longer have to keep a written record of all financial transactions.
Despite the shift from paper to electronic records, data entry is still a key competency for bookkeepers. Popular software like Sage, QuickBooks and Xero have made it much quicker and easier for bookkeepers to keep accurate records.
It’s also beneficial to have a good understanding of Microsoft Excel, Word, Powerpoint, and other general software.
4. Attention to detail
Data entry and detail-orientated often go hand in hand. So it’s no surprise to see attention to detail make it onto our list.
Bookkeepers must process invoices, bills and reports within a set timeframe. To complete these tasks, you’ll use a range of financial documents. You’re responsible for ensuring these records are accurate and error-free.
5. Communication
Communication is a core skill for most job roles, and it’s no different when it comes to bookkeeping.
Each day you’ll need to communicate with your team as well as colleagues from other departments. The type of communication will vary depending on the size of your organisation. Whether email, instant message or in-person meetings, you’ll need to present information in a clear and coherent format.
6. Bookkeeping knowledge and qualifications
A professional qualification is the perfect way to kickstart your bookkeeping career. You’ll learn theoretical and practical skills that will help to prepare you for a successful career as a bookkeeper.
At Eagle, we offer two AAT bookkeeping qualifications:
You don’t need any previous experience or qualifications to start studying. After completing Level 2, you could get a job as an entry-level bookkeeper or continue studying with Level 3. Upon completion of both levels, you’re eligible to work as a qualified bookkeeper.
7. Integrity and transparency
Bookkeepers have access to confidential financial data, so it’s vital that you act with the utmost integrity and transparency. Failure to do so can lead to severe consequences.
A bookkeeper’s responsibilities extend far beyond keeping a record of incoming and outgoings. A key area of your role is to protect your organisation’s financial policies and ensure that all transactions adhere to these guidelines.
8. Problem solving and analytical
Successful bookkeepers have the ability to identify and correct errors.
Whether it’s a discrepancy in a financial report or an unrecognisable invoice, it’s your job to quickly find the route of the problem. You’ll have to use your analytical skills to find the solution that doesn’t compromise you or your employer.
9. Business skills and big picture thinking
A solid commercial awareness will certainly help to progress your career as a bookkeeper.
It’s important that you keep one eye on the future and understand how each action you take could impact the business. With big picture thinking, you can take a step back to analyse your options before deciding on the best course of action.
10. Customer service and relationships
From customers to senior management, bookkeepers work with a wide range of stakeholders.
It’s vital that you’re able to manage these complex relationships. Effective communication, timely responses and excellent customer service will help you meet and exceed expectations.
11. Flexible yet committed
Bookkeeping is a versatile career path that keeps you on your toes. Over time it’s likely that your role will change to suit the needs of the business.
Bookkeepers that embrace change and accept new responsibilities are a real asset to the business. With this positive mindset, you’ll prove that you’re committed to working flexibly as and when required.
12. Bonus skills for your CV
After scouring the internet for bookkeeping job descriptions, we found some bonus skills that are worth adding to your CV:
- Familiarity with accounting best practices
- Leadership and management skills
- Ability to use your own initiative
- Comfortable working in a team or on your own
Kickstart your bookkeeping career
Now that you’ve had a sneak peek at what employers look for when hiring bookkeepers, are you ready to kickstart your bookkeeping career?
For just £45 per month, you can get instant access to all the tools, resources and support you need to advance your bookkeeping career. And the best news is, it’s quick, easy and free to get started.
Study AAT bookkeeping free for 7 days to see if it’s for you.