Career change

[paddy_36]

It's the time of year for it! I am seriously considering a change of career. I'd like to do book-keeping/accountancy and hopefully work for myself, but I have no relevant work experience of this at all. If I undertake courses (was thinking of starting with AAT book-keeping then maybe going on to HNC in accounting) can I realistically expect a career in this line of work to take off having done something totally different for the last eight years? Would appreciate some honest advice. Thanks.

[xrayspecs]

Past history is no barrier to future careers. Previous experience is not a prerequisit in accountancy or book keeping, particularly as you want to work for your self. You should however be clear about two things. Firstly that you have an interest in this field and by that I mean not just a "hobby" interest but a sustainable interest that will lend itself to forging a career. Secondly that you have the right qualifications to offer the right sort of professional advice. These qualifications can be studied for. You don't have to come to the job already qualified.

The truth is that the qualifications will be the least of any problems you will encounter. Accountancy and Book keeping are the kinds of professions that attract business through referals and word of mouth generally, so getting business will be your biggest hurdle. With a good network of business contacts it becomes easier and in that sense your previous business experience will help. Once you have the necesary qualifications join a Networking Group like BNI or similar. above all GO FOR IT!