BookkeeperJob Description

Bookkeepers handle daily transaction recording, reconciliations, and basic financial reporting. Accountants analyze financial data, prepare tax returns, provide strategic advice, and typically require a bachelor's degree and CPA certification. Bookkeepers focus on accurate recordkeeping while accountants interpret and advise on financial information.

Yes, many excellent bookkeepers have only a high school diploma plus professional certifications like CPB (Certified Professional Bookkeeper). Prioritize hands-on experience with accounting software, proven accuracy, and strong references over formal education. On-the-job training and certification programs can effectively develop necessary skills.

Accounting knowledge is more critical as software skills can be taught quickly. A candidate who understands debits/credits, reconciliation principles, and GAAP can learn QuickBooks in weeks. However, someone proficient in software without accounting fundamentals will make costly errors. Test their understanding of basic accounting concepts first.

Provide a sample bank statement and transaction list for reconciliation during the interview. Ask them to identify intentional errors in a mock general ledger. Request they explain their process for handling a specific scenario like duplicate payments or missing invoices. Practical tests reveal more than resume claims.

Watch for candidates who can't explain basic reconciliation processes, show resistance to learning new software, or have unexplained employment gaps in financial roles. Lack of references from previous employers, inability to discuss specific accounting challenges they've solved, or unfamiliarity with basic tax forms are concerning signs.