Accounts Receivable skills & qualifications

an Accounts Receivable working on his computer in the workplace

What skills do Accounts Receivable jobs need?

In order to be successful in an Accounts Receivable job, you will need to have strong skills in:

Microsoft Office Suite, specifically Excel
Accounts Receivable procedures
Basic bookkeeping, credit and accounting principles
Cash applications
Customer service
Organisational skills
Effective communication

In addition to the skills required, many employers also look for candidates with previous experience in a similar Accounts Receivable role is also beneficial.

What qualifications do Accounts Receivable jobs need?

Most employers will accept candidates who have relevant experience in the role.

Strong skills in the Microsoft Office suite and Accounts Receivable procedures are essential, including basic bookkeeping and accounting knowledge. You must also be able to effectively communicate with customers and colleagues and be well-organised and efficient.

Qualifications required for an Accounts Receivable job also depend on the type of role you are applying for. For example, a Senior Credit Control Supervisor or Manager may require more qualifications or experience than an entry-level Accounts Receivable Officer.

Do you need to study or go to university to be an Accounts Receivable Officer?

No, you don't need to study or go to university to be an Accounts Receivable Officer. However, if you want to work in this field, having a degree in business administration, accounting, or a related field would give you the best chance of getting a job. Alternatively, if you have relevant experience in an Accounts Receivable role, this will also be beneficial.

Do you need a degree to work in an Accounts Receivable role?

Some organisations hiring for Accounts Receivable jobs will specify in the advertised position description that a degree is required. However, not all jobs require candidates to have a degree, and are willing to train someone with no experience.

A good way to find out if the company you are applying to needs a degree is by looking at their advertised Accounts Receivable job description. If they state that they only accept applicants with degrees, it’s more than likely you will need one to secure this role.

How do you become an Accounts Receivable Officer?

To become an Accounts Receivable Officer, you need to be confident performing typical Accounts Receivable duties in the role. The duties of an Accounts Receivable Officer can vary depending on the size of the company and specific role and responsbilities within the Accounts Receivable department.

However, some of the main responsibilities outlined in an Accounts Receivable job description include:

Reviewing customer invoices and ensuring they are accurate and complete
Investigating and resolving payment discrepancies
Contacting customers to request payment of outstanding invoices
Updating customer accounts and records
Verifying and posting receipts
Working with a billing system generating invoices

In order to be successful in this role, you may also need to have strong skills in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel. You will also need to have a good understanding of Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable procedures and basic bookkeeping and accounting principles. Previous experience in an Accounts Receivable role is often beneficial but not essential.

If you’re looking to upskill on some of the skills necessary to work in an Accounts Receivable role, you can sign up to Hays Learning. Hays Learning provides free online courses on a range of skill sets, including free Microsoft Office and Excel courses relevant for Accounts Receivable roles.

Can you become an Accounts Receivable Officer with no experience?

It is possible to become an Accounts Receivable Officer with no prior experience. However, if you’re looking to get into Accounts Receivable, you will need to demonstrate an apetitite for learning and upskilling as well as some relevant experience gained through part-time work or volunteering for example.

Having a relevant degree will give you the best chance of finding employment as an Accounts Receivable Officer. Training may also be available on the job, meaning that candidates who do not have previous experience could still be considered by companies willing to invest in training and upskilling new employees.

Learn more about Accounts Receivable jobs in Australia or start your search now for available Accounts Receivable jobs with Hays.

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