CareerProgression.co.uk

Financial & Accounting Careers Through Sage Courses

Re-training for a new career can be an excellent move. Instead of wasting our lives in an un-fulfilling job that doesn't inspire or motivate us, we can take control and spend our time working on projects that captivate our interest and stimulate our minds.

Which Re-training Course Is Right For Me?

The challenge facing many of us is choosing the right career move. We need to make a list of what we want in our new career, and probably equally importantly what we don't want.

Training in finance or accounting will equip you with the skills to build a solid and rewarding career or business. You'd certainly be able to achieve recognition for your efforts, and get paid well into the bargain!

Obviously training programmes cover a diverse range of subjects; your first task is to pin-point your ideal job or career track, and then look at which colleges offer the appropriate certifications and training.

When you first join a company, you might be a cashier or a purchase ledger clerk. As your knowledge and working experience builds, with application you could become a Finance Team Leader or Manager. There are always several different training companies promoting themselves on this page.

You'll see more every time you visit, so it's worth typing Ctrl D to bookmark us. Check to see how they vary from each other - what's covered, how long the course will take, how much it will cost etc. Check that any training you short-list will prepare you for well-acknowledged exams. You need to know when you look at the job ads that you've passed the right exams.

What Will I Learn?

To be competent and prepared for your first position in accounts or finance, you should get taught a number of 'hands on' basic accounting skills. For example you'll need knowledge of how to operate computerised book-keeping records, the double-entry system, vat, payroll, reconciliations to name but a few. For those wishing to move on in the industry, training also covers subjects at a higher level. At this stage you can go into things like final accounts, accounting packages, calculating and interpreting accounting ratios partnerships and regulatory standards.

What Jobs Are Available?

After you've trained and qualified you'll have the opportunity to seek employment in whichever sector of industry or commerce you choose. There's so much choice because every business in the land has to do their accounting. There are positions within large companies for many book-keeping members of staff. However, you may work alone if your employer runs a small company. Many company directors once had jobs in accountancy or finance, and progressed to the top through diligence and hard work. Or of course you could choose to start your own small business and look after a handful of clients, either full-time or part-time.

Will This Type Of Work Suit My Personality?

Of course you will have to demonstrate your ability in the maths department! The work demands patience and thoroughness as well, so if you see yourself as the type of person who can be left to work through the nitty gritty you'll doubtless get on well. Jobs in finance are for people who can think logically.

And obviously you'll need to be able to keep your work confidential, as it's not appropriate to chat to others about the financial affairs of your company.

"Failure is the path of least persistence."
- Anon.

Do Your Research

Various accounting and financial courses abound on the internet and throughout the country. You must take time to do your research to find the one that's best for you.

Think of the research you do as an exploratory project - you need to read through several, look at testimonials and get an understanding of their teaching methods before you can decide.

There are in-centre courses with specific starting dates, train-at-home programmes to start anytime, and blended options incorporating some of each. Your preference will depend on how you're going to fit studying into your existing lifestyle, and how you feel about learning alongside other people.

When you've narrowed your options down, ask to be sent an example of their training materials - that way you'll know what to expect. Then make your decision and get started. You've nothing to lose from doing your best, but you do have everything to gain. You know you're worth it!