Entering a new work industry can be intimidating, whether you recently graduated and are looking to establish a career; or re-entering the workforce on a new path after some time away. Thankfully, there are training programs that can make this process easier and more accessible, including for those interested in entering the accounting and finance industry. 

The field of accounting and finance is a broad one, with many different opportunities within reach. Nearly every business or organization requires an individual with accounting and finance skills. The knowledge needed to enter the industry is diverse and requires a developed and intuitive program to acquire. During accounting and finance training, you’ll gain the skills needed to thrive in different areas within the industry. Read on to learn about four opportunities available to you upon graduation.

1. Work Independently as A Contractor After Accounting and Finance Training

After completing accounting and finance training, you will have the foundation to start working as a contractor. As a contractor, you can provide companies with services such as payroll management, invoicing, data capturing, and bookkeeping. The companies you provide these services for can include local transport companies, restaurants, grocers, and more. 

Bookkeeping, invoicing, and payroll are universally needed by every business, and the tools and software you’ll learn during your training, such as SAGE 50 and Quickbooks, will ensure that you can provide these services wherever necessary. As a contractor, you will also be able to work for several businesses simultaneously, wearing many different hats depending on the needed work. For instance, one business may require a bookkeeper, while another may require a payroll administrator. This will allow for a diverse portfolio and income stream.

2. Become a Bookkeeper After Your Accounting and Finance Program

A bookkeeper performs a crucial role for businesses, and nearly every company needs one. Your role will be to focus on the daily financial aspects of a business, and you may be involved with several different functions, including payroll, data capturing and invoicing. If these are not done correctly and effectively, a business will not be able to function. A good accounting and finance program will ensure that you can perform all of these tasks effectively. 

Many businesses utilize Sage50 or Quickbooks for their payroll needs, which are extensively taught during your program. Knowledge of these payroll systems will open the door to many opportunities.

3. Thrive As An Accounting Clerk In a Variety of Work Environments

The role of an accounting clerk is to assist the accounting department by processing invoices, recording, tracking, and verifying transactions in the company, as well as managing customer accounts. Most organizations and businesses require an accounting clerk, so you will find yourself with opportunities that abound across different industries and work environments. These include government offices, healthcare organizations, insurance companies, and more.

The skills required to be an accounting clerk include the ability to organize and report on financial ongoings with a company, manage the financial data, and have knowledge about accounts payable and receivable. These fundamental skills are covered during accounting and finance training, providing you with the foundation to fulfil the role successfully for any company. 

4. Pursue a Career as a Payroll Administrator After Graduation

As a payroll administrator, your responsibility will be to oversee payroll, ensuring all employees of the business for which you work are paid correctly. This involves calculating the hours that they worked, deductions or bonuses they have earned, taxes, and commissions. You will also be the first point of contact for any payroll questions that staff members may have. 

You will pick up these skills and more during your accounting and finance program, where you’ll gain the knowledge and practical hands-on skills you’ll need to thrive, including a solid understanding of the Canadian Payroll and Employment Standards, as well as mastery of Sage50 and Quickbooks.

Are you ready to begin your accounting and finance career?

Contact Discovery Community College to learn how you can get started!