I am looking at bookkeeping as a career change and buying the Bookcert product. I have 2 questions;
Is it the right time (current economic situation) to start this career or is timing not an issue. Is the Bookcert product sufficient to start a business or are other qualifications required.
I think now is as good a time as any to start up your bookkeeping business. In the current economic climate, a self employed bookkeeper can look very attractive to a company who do not want to be tied into employment contracts, holiday or sickness pay etc., !
The Bookcert product is also good to get you started, I bought it because although I had the experience and qualifications, I had no idea about actually going about setting myself up. Bookcert I felt was worth the money for me.
Bookcert does show you the basics to get you started doing everyday bookkeeping tasks, but as you progress into providing bookkeeping services for your clients, you may find that you need to gain some relevant qualifications / indepth understanding. It all depends upon how far you want to become involved, that is, do you just want to take accounts up to trial balance or perhaps do self assessments and VAT reports ? This is where there is scope to make extra money !
Like all ventures success depends on your location, your experience but more importantly your abiliy to sell yourself and your skills.
I personally have recently passed ICB quals but I am not appling for my practising cert yet till I have passed my payroll diploma and self assessment diploma.
When you offer a professional service a prospective client, they will be more attacted to you if you can offer a wide range of skills.
Also have confidense in your ability and on occasion you may need to blag to get the job. The fact you have passed world recognised qualifictions shows people you are accomplished in your field and are the right person for the job.
I would get some leaflets printed up and instead of posting them off to businessess, just go round and offer them to the business owner with a brief intro. First imprssions count and even if they have not got anytime to talk then maybe after a whlie they will get back to you because they liked your presentation.
Remember the more seeds you sow somewhere along the line some will have to germinate!
