I realize that the more certifications/credentials that one has, the better. However, are they necessary for one to be in business as a bookkeeper? I do not have a degree in accounting, am not a CPA or certified bookkeeper, but I have 12 years of experience with QB, working for others, and would love to start my own business at some point. Any advice?
Certifications are not necessary. However there are several benefits of becoming a Certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor. First, you get listed on Intuit's Find a Local ProAdvisor website. This can generate referrals. Second, the certification process provides an organized process for learning more about QuickBooks and how to use its features. Third, becoming certified says to your clients that you have taken the initiative to pass a test demonstrating your knowledge of QuickBooks. They will assume that you will also put extra effort into the work you do for them. Fourth, after being certified for three years you will be eligilble to become advanced certified. By learning everything required to pass the advance certification exam you will truly have the ability and knowledge to deal with very complex client needs. The advanced certification really sets you apart from other people offering QuickBooks services. Fifth, the certification will also help offset not having a degree in accounting or being a CPA. It is another way of demonstrating expertise. Finally, demonstrating your expertise through being certified will allow you to raise your rates since you will have proven expertise.
That is my 2 cents worth. What do you other ProAdvisors think?
Will
I totally agree with Will--well said!
Michelle L. Long, CPA, MBA
Author of: Successful QuickBooks Consulting
Advanced Certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor
National Trainer for Intuit Accountant Trainer/Writer Network
MLongConsulting.com
Go for it! If you know what you're doing and can get business, go get it. I recently got 7 clients. I am not an accountant and I have no certifications. I've just been using Quickbooks for a long time and I know how to fix my clients messed up books. I get referrals from CPAs who know my work. My clients only care that I can fix their books quickly.
I disagree with the notion that the more certifications you have the more credible you are in the marketplace. Better to get one or two solid certifications directly related to your areas of interest rather than to spread yourself too thin. Work experience and glowing recommendations from those that you have performed work for will only be enhanced by any certifications or degrees that you might have. But certifications with no work experience or positive referrals will get you nowhere. Make sure that you can demonstrate your skills and prior work experience and build your base of positive referrals. Then just go for it! Just my opinion.
Robert
AccountingNation.com
