“The U.S. accounting industry has proven itself to be a highly profitable and indispensable line of business.” - Statista Research Department

How To Become a Bookkeeper Today's Online Space

In today's fast-paced world, where balancing personal aspirations with family commitments has become more challenging than ever, I want to share with you a path that merges the best of both worlds—bookkeeping. Yes, you heard it right! The field of bookkeeping, often perceived as the meticulous art of managing numbers, holds a treasure trove of opportunities, especially for stay-at-home moms looking to rekindle their professional aspirations without compromising family time.

Bookkeeping is the backbone of any business, ensuring financial transactions are accurately recorded and in perfect harmony. It’s a profession that demands precision, reliability, and a knack for details—qualities that so many of you inherently possess and demonstrate daily in managing your households.

I've always believed in the power of reinvention and the endless potential within each of us to embark on new journeys, regardless of our backgrounds or current circumstances. And it's with this belief that I encourage you to explore the world of bookkeeping. Imagine being able to contribute to the success of a business, support your family financially, all while being present for those precious moments at home. It's more than just a job; it's a lifestyle choice that offers flexibility, empowerment, and fulfillment.

I've met incredible women over the years who have turned their lives around by seizing such opportunities. Women and devoted mothers, who find themselves at a crossroads when it comes to living life, being present for their kiddos, managing their households, and seeing their families meet their financial obligations goals and dreams.

Women who are taking the leap into bookkeeping with little more than a willingness to learn and a determination to succeed. 

These women today run their bookkeeping business, balancing client calls with soccer games and family dinners. We have countless stories like this, a testament to the fact that with the right mindset and resources, it's never too late to chart a new course in life.

So, to all the wonderful moms out there, I want you to know that no prior experience in accounting is needed to start this journey. All you need is the curiosity to learn, the courage to begin, and the commitment to see it through. The world of bookkeeping is ready to welcome you with open arms, and I'm here to guide you through every step of this exciting adventure.

Let's embark on this journey together, turning challenges into opportunities and dreams into reality. Because, as I've always said, the biggest adventure you can ever take is to live the life of your dreams.

What Is A Virtual Bookkeeping Business

Understanding the Role of a Bookkeeper

What is Bookkeeping?

At its core, bookkeeping is the process of recording and organizing all financial transactions in a business. It's about keeping a detailed account of every sale, purchase, payment, and receipt. Think of it as the heartbeat of a business, ensuring that everything financial runs smoothly and efficiently.

The Difference Between Bookkeeping and Accounting

Now, you might wonder, "Isn't that what accountants do?" It's a common question! While both bookkeepers and accountants work with financial data, their roles are distinct. Bookkeeping is the foundation—it's about recording the transactions and maintaining the ledgers. Accounting, on the other hand, is about interpreting, analyzing, and summarizing that financial data. In essence, bookkeepers write the financial story of a business, and accountants interpret it.

The Skills of a Successful Bookkeeper

To be a successful bookkeeper, you don't need to be a math whiz or a financial guru. What you do need are qualities you likely already use every day:

• Attention to Detail: Just like when you're balancing your household budget or organizing a family event, bookkeeping requires a keen eye for detail.

• Organization: Keeping financial records in order is similar to managing a busy family schedule—both require systematic thinking and a methodical approach.

• Reliability: Just as your family relies on you, your clients or employer will depend on your accuracy and consistency in managing their financial records.

These qualities will serve to help you in the

of becoming a bookkeeper.

The Importance of Confidentiality

In bookkeeping, you're entrusted with sensitive information. Maintaining confidentiality is paramount, akin to keeping a friend's trust. It's about building relationships based on integrity and respect.

A Personal Story: Meet Ashley

Let me share the story of Ashley. You can watch it here. 

She’s, a vibrant spirit who found herself conquering her cancer journey while still earning an income. She could work from anywhere including treatment centers. What an inspiration!

Watch Ashley’s story here. 

Getting Started as a Bookkeeper with No Prior Experience

Education and Training

Embarking on a new career path can feel like setting sail on uncharted waters. But just like any journey, the right map can guide you to your destination. In the world of bookkeeping, your map is the education and training you choose to pursue.

Exploring Your Learning Options

The beauty of learning in our time is the abundance of paths at your fingertips. Whether you're a night owl who enjoys quiet evenings of study or a morning person who thrives in the early light, there's a learning style and schedule to match your rhythm.

• Online Courses: The digital world brings the classroom to your living room, allowing you to learn at your own pace, often around your family's schedule. Many reputable institutions offer courses that range from beginner to advanced levels, covering the fundamentals of bookkeeping and beyond.

• Community College Programs: For those who prefer a more traditional classroom setting, community colleges provide a structured learning environment. These programs often offer the added benefit of local networking opportunities.

• Workshops and Seminars: Short-term workshops or seminars can be a great way to dip your toes into the bookkeeping waters, offering a glimpse into the day-to-day work of a bookkeeper.

Balancing Study Time with Family

Integrating study time into a busy family life requires a sprinkle of creativity and a dash of discipline. It's about carving out moments of quiet amidst the chaos—be it during a child's naptime or in the golden silence of the early morning. Remember, it's not just the quantity of time but the quality of focus you bring to your studies that counts.

Setting Realistic Goals

Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither is a career in bookkeeping. Setting realistic, achievable goals can help you stay on track without feeling overwhelmed. Celebrate each milestone, no matter how small, and remember that every page turned is a step closer to your dream.

A Personal Touch: Jeremiah’s Journey

Let's take a moment to celebrate Jeremiah, a remarkable man husband and father who, much like many of you, juggled the roles of parenthood and aspiring professional. With a little one on the way Jeremiah needed to kick his business into gear. Armed with a plan, training, he showed up for his marketing and reached 6 Figures in less than a year from our first conversation where he was concerned to admit to his wife that his business wasn’t moving forward. He left his 9-5 in about 8 months after my first conversation with him! Now he has the flexibility to spend time with his young family! 

Watch Jeremiah’s Bookkeeping Journey Here. 

Gaining Practical Experience

Embarking on the path to becoming a skilled bookkeeper involves more than just mastering the theory; it requires getting your hands dirty (figuratively speaking, of course) with the nuts and bolts of real-world bookkeeping. Here's how you can bridge the gap between knowledge and practice.

The Value of Hands-On Experience

There's a certain magic in applying what you've learned in a classroom to solving real-life problems. It's where theory meets reality, and where true learning blossoms. Practical experience helps you understand the rhythm of financial cycles, the nuances of different business operations, and the satisfaction of balancing the books to the penny.

Finding Opportunities to Learn

• Volunteering: Many local nonprofits, schools, and community organizations are in dire need of bookkeeping assistance. Offering your skills not only provides you with valuable experience but also contributes to a cause close to your heart.

• Internships and Part-Time Positions: Keep an eye out for internships or part-time roles in bookkeeping or related fields. These positions can offer a guided entry into the world of finance, under the mentorship of seasoned professionals.

• Simulated Practice: Setting up a simulated bookkeeping environment at home can be an effective way to practice. Use real-world scenarios to challenge yourself, from managing household expenses to creating financial reports for hypothetical businesses. We have practice in The Bookkeeper Blueprint Fast Start™ course. 

• MY FAVORITE! Do your own personal books. Yep - test it all out. From your FREE QuickBooks Online Accountant portal test out the revenue share feature and purchase a Simple Start Subscription for yourself. Set up your chart of accounts, connect your bank accounts, reconcile all of the accounts, review all of the reports and issue yourself financials. Later use this file to set up your bookkeeping workflows using Keeper.app. Have fun learning how to do bookkeeping with books you are most familiar with - your own. 

The Journey of Learning Through Doing Bookkeeping

The beauty of gaining practical experience is that every mistake becomes a lesson, and every challenge, a chance for growth. It's about building confidence, one transaction at a time, and understanding that perfection is less important than progress.

Learn Bookkeeping by asking questions: 

We understand the countless questions that comes up for each new account you sign on. As your bookkeeping business grows and scales, new clients sign on, you see different payment processors, or accounts receivable factoring for the first time we have your bookkeeping back. Kristin said it best here in her review: “...they literally save me.” Ellen said “... Thank you for the talk yesterday it really helped me and gave me the confidence I needed to do this!!!!!!!!” 

See their reviews and other reviews of bookkeepers like you using our Bookkeeper Mentoring | Private Bookkeeper Coaching Calls | 1:1 Calls (thebookkeeperblueprint.com)

Leveraging Technology in Bookkeeping

In today's digital age, mastering bookkeeping isn't just about understanding financial principles; it's also about navigating the software and tools that make the process more efficient and accurate. Embracing technology is not just a necessity—it's a superpower in the realm of bookkeeping.

Essential Bookkeeping Software

The landscape of bookkeeping software is vast and varied, with tools designed to cater to businesses of all sizes and industries. Familiarizing yourself with popular platforms like QuickBooks, Xero, and FreshBooks is a great starting point. Each program offers unique features, but all aim to streamline the bookkeeping process, from automating entries to generating comprehensive financial reports.

Staying Updated with Tech Trends

The world of technology is ever-evolving, and so are the tools and software used in bookkeeping. Staying abreast of the latest updates and innovations is crucial. Online forums, webinars, and continuous learning courses can be invaluable resources in keeping your tech skills sharp and your bookkeeping practices current.

The Power of Automation and Accuracy

Modern bookkeeping software not only saves time but also reduces the margin for error. Automation allows for real-time tracking of transactions, and cloud-based platforms enable you to access financial data from anywhere, offering flexibility that perfectly complements the dynamic lifestyle of a stay-at-home mom.

Certification and Advancing Your Career with "The Bookkeeping Blueprint"

In the journey of becoming a professional bookkeeper, obtaining certification is a milestone that signifies your expertise, commitment, and readiness to serve clients or employers at the highest level. It's more than a credential; it's a badge of honor that opens doors to new opportunities and potentially higher earnings.

The Path to Certification

Certification in bookkeeping can vary depending on your location and the specific industry you wish to enter. Generally, it involves completing a series of courses and passing a comprehensive exam. Certifications such as the Certified Bookkeeper (CB) designation from the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB) or the Certified Public Bookkeeper (CPB) license from the National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers (NACPB) are highly regarded in the field.

Introducing "The Bookkeeper Blueprint Fast Start™"

For those of you seeking a guided path to certification and beyond, "The Bookkeeping Blueprint" offers an all-encompassing course tailored for aspiring bookkeepers. This equips you with the real-world skills needed to thrive in the bookkeeping profession.

Beyond Certification: Building Your Career

Achieving certification is a significant step, but it's just the beginning of your career journey. The next steps involve continuing education, networking, and finding your niche within the vast world of bookkeeping. Remember, the most successful bookkeepers are those who never stop learning and adapting to the changing landscape of finance and technology.

A Beacon of Success: Elise’s Achievement

Let me share with you the story of Elise, a beacon of determination and ambition. Elise, has a passion for numbers, embarked on her bookkeeping journey with a dream and a laptop. Through "The Bookkeeping Blueprint," she added to the skills and knowledge necessary for certification but also discovered a supportive community that propelled her forward. She left her full-time job in under 6 months allowing her to be present and care for her family and herself in a way she was not able to working full-time. She’ll tell you it wasn’t easy but she launch her own bookkeeping business, stepped into the world of tax strategy and tax preparation due to her willingness to step out and put herself to the test. Her story is a vivid illustration of how education, certification, and a pinch of courage can create a fulfilling and prosperous career.

Finding Work and Building Your Career

Once you've armed yourself with education, practical experience, and possibly certification, the next exciting phase begins stepping into the professional world and carving out your unique path in the bookkeeping landscape. Whether you dream of joining an established company or embarking on a freelance journey, the possibilities are as vast as your ambition.

Strategies for Finding Bookkeeping Jobs

The job hunt can be as much about who you know as what you know. Networking, both online and in person, can uncover opportunities that might not be advertised widely. LinkedIn, professional bookkeeping associations, and local business events are excellent places to connect with potential employers or clients.

• Online Job Boards: Websites like Indeed, Monster, and specialized bookkeeping job forums often list opportunities ranging from entry-level positions to more advanced roles.

• Freelance Platforms: For those inclined towards freelance work, platforms like Upwork and Freelancer can be a good starting point to build a portfolio and client base. We cover all of the ins and outs to growing your bookkeeping business on Upwork which was how Sherry built her 6-Figure Business inside The Bookkeeper Blueprint Fast Start Course. 

The Freelance Route: Starting Your Own Bookkeeping Business

The thought of starting your own business can be both thrilling and daunting. Yet, many bookkeepers find great satisfaction and success in running their own freelance operations. It offers unparalleled flexibility, allowing you to tailor your workload to fit your lifestyle and family commitments.

• Marketing Yourself: Creating a professional website, business cards, and a social media presence can help attract clients. Testimonials from satisfied customers can be powerful endorsements.

• Networking: Never underestimate the power of word-of-mouth. Engage with local businesses, attend community events, and join online forums to spread the word about your bookkeeping services.

• Follow Up With Leads: It takes the professional services industry on average 6 months to go from new lead to signed services like your bookkeeping services. Utilizing a CRM can ensure you are making the most of your bookkeeping leads and getting in front of your ideal bookkeeping clients when they are ready to sign or finally hand over their bookkeeping to you.

Balancing Work and Family

The beauty of bookkeeping, especially as a freelancer, is the ability to strike a harmonious balance between professional commitments and family life. Setting clear boundaries and a dedicated workspace, even at home, can help maintain this balance.

A Story of Inspiration: Megan’s Journey

Megan was a Single Mom when she started her journey into becoming a bookkeeper. She fought the same battles she now sees other women battle. The wonder “will this work for me?” When she decided a virtual bookkeeping business was the answer to her leaving her 9-5 and saying goodbye to her long commute, she left replaced the income of her full-time job within 4 months! She said goodbye to missing her daughter's events just in time for football season!

Megan’s journey into the world of bookkeeping began in the early moments before anyone else in the house was awake. She diligently grew her business by showing up every day for it. With no prior bookkeeping or accounting experience, no degree, she honed her skills, gradually expanding her clientele through Facebook, word-of-mouth and local networking. Today, Megan not only enjoys a thriving career but also the flexibility to be present for her family's significant moments. Her story is a testament to the potential that lies in the world of bookkeeping for creating a fulfilling career that doesn't compromise family time.

If you ask Megan what resources, she used to grow her business she would tell you she painstakingly used Bookkeeping All-in-one For Dummies to start before courses were a thing!

Conclusion: 

As we draw this guide to a close, remember that the path to becoming a bookkeeper, much like any journey of transformation, is filled with learning, growth, and the occasional challenge. But the rewards—flexibility, financial independence, and the ability to contribute meaningfully to a business while balancing family life—are profound and fulfilling.

Your journey might begin with curiosity and a leap of faith, like Sherry’s, but with dedication, the right resources, and a community of support, you'll find that bookkeeping offers not just a career, but a lifestyle that aligns with your values and goals.

Read the stories—each started where you are now, and through resilience, learning, and a bit of courage, they've crafted careers that are as rewarding as they are impactful. Let their journeys inspire you to take the first step, to believe in your potential, and to see where this path may lead you.

The world of bookkeeping is vast and varied, and there's a place within it that's just right for you. Whether you're drawn to the precision of numbers, the satisfaction of problem-solving, or the joy of helping businesses thrive, your unique skills and perspectives are needed and valued.

So, take a deep breath, and step forward with confidence. The journey ahead is yours to shape, and I can't wait to see where it leads you.

Additional Resources

To support you on your journey, here are some resources that can help expand your knowledge, connect you with a community of like-minded individuals, and keep you updated on the latest in the field of bookkeeping:

• Join The Bookkeeper Blueprint on YouTube, Facebook, or Podcast

• American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB): An invaluable resource for certification information, continuing education, and industry standards.

• National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers (NACPB): Offers certification, training, and a network of professionals dedicated to the field.

• QuickBooks Training: Provides comprehensive training for one of the most widely used bookkeeping software.

• Coursera and Udemy: Online learning platforms that offer courses on bookkeeping and accounting fundamentals.

• LinkedIn Learning: Offers a plethora of courses tailored to bookkeeping and financial management, perfect for brushing up on specific skills.

• Meetup: A great place to find local bookkeeping and accounting groups where you can network and learn from peers.

• "The Bookkeeping Blueprint": Your go-to course for not just learning the ropes but mastering the art and science of bookkeeping at your own pace.

As you begin on this journey to becoming a bookkeeper, remember that every expert was once a beginner. Embrace the learning curve, lean into the challenges, and let your passion for growth guide you. The world of bookkeeping awaits, and it's yours to conquer.

Looking for encouragement as you conquer this year?