Employers

Of the nearly 1.6 million bookkeeping, auditing, and accounting clerks, many work for personnel supplying companies; that is, those companies that provide part-time or temporary office workers. Approximately 25 percent of bookkeeping and accounting clerks work part time, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Many others are employed by government agencies and organizations that provide educational, health, business, and social services.

Starting Out

You may find jobs or establish contacts with businesses that are interested in interviewing graduates through your guidance or career services offices. A work-study program or internship may result in a full-time job offer. Business schools and junior colleges generally provide assistance to their graduates in locating employment.

You can locate job opportunities by applying directly to firms or responding to ads on employment agency Web sites and in newspaper classified sections. State employment agencies and private employment bureaus can also assist in the job search process.

Bookkeeping workers generally begin their employment by performing routine tasks, such as the simple recording of transactions. Beginners may start as entry-level clerks, cashiers, bookkeeping machine operators, office assistants, or typists. With experience, they may advance to more complex assignments that include computer training in databases and spreadsheets and assume a greater responsibility for the work as a whole.

With experience and education, clerks become department heads or office managers. Further advancement to positions such as division manager, accountant, or auditor is possible with a college degree and years of experience. There is a high turnover rate in this field, which increases the promotion opportunities for employees with ability and initiative.

Join the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB) and the National Bookkeepers Association to access training and networking resources, certification, industry publications, and employment opportunities.

For job listings, visit:

• http://www.aipbjobs.com
• http://www.nationalba.org/jobs/bookkeeper_bookkeeping.cfm
• http://www.officeteam.com

Join the AIPB's e-mail discussion lists to interact with fellow clerks and learn about certification.