For as long as there have been businesses, there have been accountants. Even with the arrival of software and tools, they continue to be sought after. This is because somebody still needs to input the data, make the reports, and monitor the transactions.

Virtual accounting may be new but it continues to grow in demand. While it is mentally exhausting and stressful, it is very rewarding. If you are skilled at computing numbers, this may be the career for you.

What a virtual CPA does

To put it simply, a virtual accountant career is a bookkeeping or financial position that is done remotely. Just like with their office-based counterparts, their responsibilities include:

• Helping companies reduce their costs and run more efficiently
• Making sure that accounting processes adhere to best practices
• Checking financial statements
• Keeping financial records and the books updated
• Overseeing the payroll
• Preparing and filing tax returns and other related work
• Using accounting software to manage data

Why pursue a virtual accountant career

If you’re considering a career as a remote accountant, here are reasons why that is a wonderful idea:

Flexible schedule

Though there are deadlines to meet during the fiscal year, accounting doesn’t have to be nine-to-five. Thanks to accounting tools that are accessible online, work is now done from anywhere in the world. You aren’t limited to a certain time so you aren’t forced to take the night shift.

Transferable skills

Solid financial skills are also useful in other occupations, especially in business administration. You may even work in developing accounting software too. If your goal is to become a virtual CPA, you may earn an income as a bookkeeper while honing your skills specifically for accounting.

High demand

Regardless if your employer is in mining or food, there has to be someone to manage the books. This means you may work in any industry you love but aren’t qualified for. For example, maybe you love art but don’t have the skills to be an artist.

Stable income

A traditional bookkeeper receives around PHP 171,895 every year in salary. According to My Virtual Mate, a remote bookkeeper makes around PHP 23,439 a month while a remote accountant makes PHP 32,170. You may conclude that a virtual accounting career has an above average salary.

Technological innovations

Accounting tools and software are updated all the time. You’ll notice that there are new ways to input data and make reports. This is what makes this career so interesting, as you are unlikely to get bored if you love working with numbers.

How to start your virtual accountant career

1. Get an education

To become qualified for accounting jobs, you need a related bachelor’s degree in finance, business administration, or accounting. Some clients accept associate degrees in bookkeeping and the like. Qualifications or requirements vary depending on the role you’re applying for.

2. Get a certification

If you want to land the high-paying accounting jobs, you need to become a virtual CPA. The basic requirements include a bachelor’s degree in Accountancy or its equivalent. It’s advisable that you take time to review for the exam since it’s long and tedious.

3. Get the skills

You might have the degree but that’s not enough to attract recruiters to you. You need to have the skills that sets you above the other candidates or professionals. Gain the basic skills, like knowing how to use Microsoft Excel at the very least.

How to be a successful virtual accountant

Now that you know how to start your career, you have to learn how to build an online presence as a remote bookkeeper or accountant. Doing so increases your exposure to potential clients or employers, which is important when you’re starting out.

• Blogging: Make content that people will want to share on social networks. This enables you to showcase your knowledge and expertise in the field.
• Social media marketing: Reach your target audience through different social media platforms. Ensure that you post something on a regular basis to boost exposure.
• Inbound linking: Gain access to the wider market by getting yourself listed on professional sites. Anyway, when you pass the CPA exam, you’ll be listed on the PICPA.
• Web marketing: Consider making your own website where you may describe the skills you possess and how you may be of assistance to business owners.
• Cloud-based onboarding: Think about how you will sign documents digitally and share files virtually, all the while ensuring data privacy and confidentiality.

Begin your virtual accountant career

It’s not enough to know how to become a successful virtual accountant. You have to apply the things you have learned and the tips provided to make any progress.

Are you looking for an opportunity to apply the suggestions above? We at Remote Workmate are here to help you find the right virtual accounting role. Not only do we provide listings but also we’ll prepare you for when you actually get hired.