Should I be a bookkeeper?

The job outlook might be declining, but don't write bookkeeping off just yet!

The 2025 Future of Work Report identifies bookkeeping as a fast-declining job. So then…why still consider it?

While the overall job outlook is trending downward, bookkeepers will still be in demand till 2034.

The US alone predicts about 170,000 openings, while growth in Canada is moderate to very good, depending on the province.

But keep in mind: the role is evolving. Bookkeepers have the opportunity to lean into problem-solving and analysis, as the more basic tasks are automated or handled by AI. So if you're all about keeping a business running smoothly, while rolling with new technology, bookkeeping might be the right career for you!

Bookkeepers keep businesses running smoothly by tracking every dollar that comes in and out. Bookkeepers record and categorize every sale, payment, and expense.

You'll double-check accounts to ensure everything matches and keep the business audit ready! You may also run payroll, making sure employees get paid on time and accurately.

Bookkeepers love to solve puzzles. When things don't match up, they have to figure out why!

A Day in the Life

Here are the many ways bookkeepers spend their day putting the pieces together:

• Manage cash, checks, and digital payments by receiving, recording, and handling all transactions.

• Check that the business's records match the bank. If not, they track down why.

• Send reports to accountants so they can file taxes.

• Make payments for supplies, payroll, or other business expenses.

• Communicate updates and concerns through meetings or by email.

• Collect payments due to the business.

How Bookkeepers Interact with Customers

Take a look at how Krystal, a bookkeeper at an autoshop, follows up on customer payments.

The rise of AI may be on your mind as you choose your next or first career. One way to think about it is that some skills and tasks are being replaced by AI, not the full job responsibility.

What YOU Can Bring

AI doesn't attend meetings, ask clarifying questions, or understand the story behind the numbers. That's where you come in.

You’ll have those "aha!" moments when you use your skills to solve a business problem, all because of what you noticed or heard in a meeting!

What AI Can Handle

Automate repetitive tasks like data entry, calculations, and report-writing, freeing up your time to focus on nuanced data analysis and business-specific decisions that require human input.

AI can even generate insights for you to consider.

You'll love it if...

• You enjoy figuring out why things don't add up

• You're good with details and catching mistakes

• You like having a routine but with variety mixed in

• You like the idea of being trusted with important information

It's not for you if...

• You don't like working with numbers or sitting at a desk

• You get stressed easily when small mistakes matter a lot

• You want to be the one making the big decisions

• You need constant excitement or fast-paced action

1. Work Flexibility

Choosing to be a bookkeeper means having options on how and where you work. You could work for small businesses or large corporations, work for someone or be your own boss by teaming up with local businesses in your own town or city!

2. Salary

• Canada's median salary is $45K CAD

• US median salary is $58K USD

Check out salaries in other countries.

3. Growth Options

Bookkeeping offers two paths — deepen your craft or climb the ladder.

• Some love being a bookkeeper and focus on mastering their skills or starting their own bookkeeping business.

• You can continue your education and earn certifications to advance from bookkeeper to accountant, financial analyst, and eventually Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Since you can start without formal training, that's an inspiring journey.

Either way, you choose!

Image created by author via Canva

You can start working with a high school diploma or GED and some accounting courses. To boost your skills and be more competitive, you have options:

• Learn basic skills through courses or self-study in accounting fundamentals. You can find free options like Intuit Academy (the makers of QuickBooks software) or AccountingCoach.com.

• For advancement, look into professional certification or a degree (associate or bachelor).

• You can gain experience on the job — stay curious and reskill as technology shifts how the work gets done.

Yes, the job outlook for traditional bookkeeping is declining — but that doesn't mean it's a dead end. There are still plenty of openings, the role is growing with technology, and there are career paths for everyone, from brand new bookkeepers to future CFOs.

Do some more research before deciding!