11 Nov From Self Taught Bookkeeper to General Ledger Accounting: Heather’s Career Journey
You don’t always need a college degree in accounting to begin building a career in the field.
For Heather, her introduction to bookkeeping came unexpectedly when a manager was preparing to leave for vacation.
With a few instructions, a little encouragement, and a willingness to learn, Heather took on a responsibility that would help shape her career.
Today, at 35, Heather has spent much of her working life developing accounting and business management skills across several industries, including manufacturing, laboratory services, and property management.
Her experience shows how learning on the job, accepting new responsibilities, and staying open to opportunities can lead to a lasting career.
Learning Bookkeeping by Doing It
Heather began her working career as a bookkeeper for a family business.
She didn’t start with extensive formal training. Instead, she learned through experience.
When the company’s HR manager was preparing to go on vacation, she gave Heather a few tips about the work that needed to be done.
Then she offered some simple encouragement.
“You can handle it.”
And Heather did.
She took on the responsibilities, figured things out, and continued developing her skills.
Over the next eight years, Heather gained valuable experience in bookkeeping and business operations.
Eventually, she felt ready for a new challenge.
Expanding Her Skills in Manufacturing
Heather’s next opportunity came with a rapidly growing manufacturing and laboratory company.
Because the business was expanding, she had the chance to take on several different roles.
It became one of her favorite jobs.
She enjoyed the variety of responsibilities and the opportunity to learn new skills.
During her five years with the company, Heather moved into an Accounting Assistant position, where she gained experience with accounts receivable and accounts payable.
Accounts receivable involves tracking money customers owe a business, while accounts payable focuses on managing the money a business owes its vendors and suppliers.
Both are important parts of keeping a company’s finances organized.
Heather appreciated the experience because she was constantly learning and expanding her knowledge.
After five years, however, she was ready to explore another opportunity.
Finding a New Opportunity in Property Management
Heather eventually joined a property management company, where she works today.
Her accounting experience has allowed her to move between different industries and apply many of the same financial skills in new settings.
When asked whether she enjoys her current career, Heather gave an honest answer.
Yes and no.
She appreciates the people she works with and enjoys the positive atmosphere.
But she also admits that she is becoming a little bored.
After years of learning new responsibilities and taking on different challenges, Heather is ready to broaden her skills again.
Her answer highlights something important about career development.
Even when someone enjoys their coworkers and workplace, they may still want opportunities to grow.
For Heather, learning has always been one of the most rewarding parts of her career.
Be Willing to Learn and Take on New Responsibilities
Heather has practical advice for anyone interested in bookkeeping, general ledger accounting, or other accounting support positions.
Be willing to be the person who helps wherever needed.
She encourages people to remain open to different responsibilities, including temporary positions that may provide valuable experience.
A job that wasn’t part of the original plan could introduce someone to new skills or a different career path.
Heather also recommends developing strong computer skills, especially in Microsoft Excel and QuickBooks.
These programs are commonly used to organize financial information, track transactions, and support business accounting.
She suggests exploring QuickBooks certification as a way to demonstrate knowledge of the software to potential employers.
Another recommendation is to think about the type of business you would like to work for.
Accounting positions are available in many industries, including property management, manufacturing, retail, and other businesses.
While the basic accounting principles may be similar, each industry has different processes, responsibilities, and opportunities.
A Career Built on Curiosity and Growth
At 35, Heather has built her career by being willing to try new things.
She started as a bookkeeper, learned new responsibilities in a growing manufacturing company, developed accounting skills, and moved into property management.
Along the way, she discovered that she enjoys being challenged and having opportunities to expand her knowledge.
Her story also shows that career satisfaction can change over time.
A position that once offered exciting opportunities may eventually become routine, and that can inspire someone to pursue additional training or new responsibilities.
For anyone considering a career in accounting, Heather’s experience offers a valuable lesson.
Be willing to learn, take opportunities seriously, and never stop developing your skills.
Sometimes the first step toward a rewarding career begins when someone says, “You can handle it,” and you discover that you can.
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