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Am I too old to be starting out in book keeping?

gerrydunne
  • 12 posts
  • # 91191

Hi, I have had a long career in electronics and have been studying book keeping up to level 3 AAT though have not taken any exams yet apart from level 1 computerised book keeping using Sage Line 50.

I am restarting my studies at ICB level 1 to get qualified for a career as a self-employed book keeper and would appreciate any views as to would I be too old to be embarking on this endeavor. I am 51!


Any views on this would be gratfully appreciated. email gerry.dunne@live.co.uk     
Lady of Ledger
  • 491 posts
  • # 91194


Definately not too old Laughing


The fact that you've studied book keeping previously, you'll fly through your studies I'm sure. Within a few months you could be applying for a practising licence and then 12 to 18 months from now, earning yourself a reasonable living. So you'll be 52 or 53 by then, that's still a good 15 years or so of working life AND in something that keeps your brain active - it's got to help in older age, I think.


Some business people like working with a more mature book keeper as they beleive they can relate to life and its consequences better than a younger person. So it's just a case of promoting yourself correctly and you'll soon get matched with the right clients for the work.

  • Carol Saunders
    Lady of Ledger Book Keeping
    Telford, Shropshire



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lainy
  • 746 posts
  • # 91195

Hi Gerry


Im 51 too, and opened by practice in April (still tons 2 learn), so you are definately not too old. Athough I had taught 'O' Level accounts many moons ago.  I had spent the last 25 years in an administration role, (customer relations, credit control etc). so its all very new, and its slow 2 get going. Ive never worked for myself before so its all very scary, but exciting too. I certainly dont think 51 is too old.  Infact its probably the best time, you could specialise in electronic firms or whatever you wanted. Best of luck in your new career, and welcome to the over 50s club.


Very best wishes


Lainy xxx   
David
  • Fellow PM.Dip
  • Practice Licence
  • 424 posts
  • # 91200

Hi Gerry

You are never too old to learn or change career as long as your mind is still young enough.
Lizzie59
  • Fellow PM.Dip
  • Practice Licence
  • 400 posts
  • # 91203

Hi Gerry


Definitely not too old.  I am a similar age to yourself and although I have done accounts all my life I only decided to take the relevant qualifications to set up on my own a year or so ago.  I have now set up my own practice and have taken level 2, Self Assessment and Payroll exams and am now doing level 3.  My long term plan is that once I reach retirement age I will still be able to earn a part time income, keeping both my brain and lifestyle active.

Good luck

 Liz

  • Time can never be replaced. Spend it wisely.


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  • Member
  • Practice Licence
  • 24 posts
  • # 91205

Lizzie59said:

“Hi Gerry


Definitely not too old.  I am a similar age to yourself and although I have done accounts all my life I only decided to take the relevant qualifications to set up on my own a year or so ago.  I have now set up my own practice and have taken level 2, Self Assessment and Payroll exams and am now doing level 3.  My long term plan is that once I reach retirement age I will still be able to earn a part time income, keeping both my brain and lifestyle active.

Good luck

 Liz”

Hi Gerry,

I am 53yrs old and having worked in a post office, business all my life have started applying my bookkeeping skills as a self employed bookkeeper, while studying to get a qualificafication.  Having just passed level !! computerised, and manual bookkeepign am studying level 111, hoping to take the exams in September.  I am really enjoying working with a group of accountants and studying at the same time.
Good luck and don't give up.  We over 50's have a lot of experience and knowledge we are not aware of. As Liz said it will keep our brains ticking and the money will be a bonus.

Good luck

Saroj 
  • 26 posts
  • # 91207

Definately not old. I am 66 and have just got my paractice licence etc, I am going to take the SA exam very shortly. I was in the RN for 10 years and the police service for 33 years. As far as I am concerned you are never too old to do anything and \i certainly am not ready for pipe and slippers just yet.
gerrydunne
  • 12 posts
  • # 91281

Thank you all for your kind words of encouragement. This has truly given me the motivation to continue and pass my exams and qualify as a bookkeeper.


Thanks again... Gerry.  
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