Accounts AssistantJob Description

Accounts Assistants typically work within larger finance teams and handle broader accounting tasks including reconciliations and reporting. Bookkeepers focus primarily on recording daily transactions and may work independently for small businesses. Both roles overlap but Accounts Assistants often have more growth opportunities toward staff accountant positions.

Yes, candidates with relevant certificates, associate degrees, or equivalent experience can succeed in this role. Focus on practical skills like software proficiency, attention to detail, and basic accounting knowledge. Many successful Accounts Assistants start with on-the-job training and pursue formal education later.

Prioritize foundational accounting knowledge first, as software can be taught relatively quickly. A candidate who understands debits, credits, and reconciliation principles will adapt to any platform. However, familiarity with common tools like QuickBooks or Excel demonstrates initiative and reduces training time.

Provide a practical exercise like reconciling a sample bank statement, identifying errors in a spreadsheet, or processing mock invoices. This reveals attention to detail, problem-solving approach, and technical proficiency better than theoretical questions. Time-boxed tasks also show how they handle deadline pressure.

Watch for lack of attention to detail in their resume (typos, formatting errors), inability to explain basic accounting concepts, or gaps in explaining previous financial responsibilities. Candidates who can't demonstrate confidentiality awareness or show impatience with repetitive tasks may struggle in this detail-oriented role.