Set Goals

Setting realistic goals is the first step to ensuring your job search starts on the right foot.

Why You Need to Set Goals

You must set some realistic goals when starting your job search to become a bookkeeper. You will want to set goals pertaining to the education needed to become a bookkeeper and how to position yourself within the job market to truly stand out. The first thing you should do is look at the companies you would like to work for and their job descriptions. This will give you an understanding of what you must do to standout to prospective employers. Knowing that the best way to stand out is through certified skills and knowledge gained through education and experience is essential. NACPB offers multiple pathways to gain the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to succeed as a professional bookkeeper. The second thing you need to do is set a timeline for how long it will take you to gain the necessary education, certifications, and experience. Lastly, once you have gained those necessary skills, set goals for your desired position and plan to reach that goal. That could be deciding to apply for ten jobs a week, visit five perspective employers’ places of business per week, or make five new professional connections on LinkedIn. Setting goals will help you create accountability in your job search and will ultimately help you reach them.

Required Paths

Helpful Resources

Download the SMART Goal Tracker Excel file.

Article

Feel free to read Mastering Success: A Guide to Crafting SMART Goals and A strategy to get hired in 5 short weeks

Next Step

When you have completed everything here and are ready to move on, go to step 2: Build a Professional Resume.