How much do you actually know about being a bookkeeper? Although your bookkeeping is the backbone to your business, you probably have never wondered about it. There are some common bookkeeping myths we’d like to bust and facts we’d like to share so you can better understand the act of bookkeeping and being a bookkeeper.
A degree is not required.
To be a bookkeeper, there is not a required degree or “major” to study. Anyone can become a bookkeeper if they have the right program, the right training, and a self-motivation to learn and then execute. There are many trainings and classes available, so make sure you do your research before pursuing the first course you find.
Certifications put you ahead.
Being certified in your specific bookkeeping software helps you stand out in a crowd. This shows that not only do you know what you’re doing, but you put in the time and effort to excel at this craft. For instance, at Skynar Bookkeeping Services, our bookkeepers are QuickBooks Certified ProAdvisors, which requires an annual exam to renew.
Bookkeeping is not accounting.
Although the words “bookkeeping” and “accounting” are often used synonymously, they’re actually quite different. Bookkeepers manage and record the day-to-day in’s and out’s of your business, while accountants look at everything as a whole and then use this information to foster financial strategies moving forward. A bookkeeper helps keep your business balanced.
Can be done in-house or outsourced.
You do not need to hire a full-time employee to do your bookkeeping, unless that is something you want. Your bookkeeping can be completed by an outside expert so long as they have access to all necessary information and communication remains open. Explore your options and consider your budget.
More than just data entry.
A bookkeeper does more than just log where your money goes. They keep your books balanced, clean up any errors or missing information, provide detailed reports on the state of your business, complete payroll, and more. Some bookkeepers specialize in specific tasks, while others offer a variety of services.