Going back to work fulltime - switching careers - starting over advice

[sjc0816]

I haven't worked full time since 2006 when my oldest son was born. I'm starting to consider attempting to get back to full time work but honestly, don't know where to start. My previous career was in sales and although I loved it 10 years ago, my life is different now and I just can't go back there (hours, travel, etc). So, I'm looking at starting over entirely.

For the last 6 years, I have done part-time freelance writing/marketing work and have volunteered a lot. I am treasurer of a non-profit, I've done fundraising, event planning/management, and more. As it turns out, the work I enjoy the most....is the finance-related work. I would love to get into finance or accounting but my experience is limited to volunteer work and my degree is in Journalism.

Does anyone have any suggestions on how to go about a career change? I have no expectations of starting anywhere but the bottom...but it seems that most jobs I see even for entry level accounting ask for an accounting degree.  Is this too far-fetched of a goal for myself?  All I need, is for someone to give me a chance. I have superior communication skills and attention to detail, a VERY positive attitude, I work well with others, I am an expert multi-tasker and have a strong work ethic. I know once I am able to get in the door, I will not be entry-level for long. 

Has anyone ever done this before? Or, has anyone hired someone under similar circumstances? I would love some advice!

[okits]

Posting to follow. 

(Try asking a moderator to move this thread to "Ask a Mustachian", where more people will see it.)

[Goldielocks]

I haven't worked full time since 2006 when my oldest son was born. I'm starting to consider attempting to get back to full time work but honestly, don't know where to start. My previous career was in sales and although I loved it 10 years ago, my life is different now and I just can't go back there (hours, travel, etc). So, I'm looking at starting over entirely.

For the last 6 years, I have done part-time freelance writing/marketing work and have volunteered a lot. I am treasurer of a non-profit, I've done fundraising, event planning/management, and more. As it turns out, the work I enjoy the most....is the finance-related work. I would love to get into finance or accounting but my experience is limited to volunteer work and my degree is in Journalism.

Does anyone have any suggestions on how to go about a career change? I have no expectations of starting anywhere but the bottom...but it seems that most jobs I see even for entry level accounting ask for an accounting degree.  Is this too far-fetched of a goal for myself?  All I need, is for someone to give me a chance. I have superior communication skills and attention to detail, a VERY positive attitude, I work well with others, I am an expert multi-tasker and have a strong work ethic. I know once I am able to get in the door, I will not be entry-level for long. 

Has anyone ever done this before? Or, has anyone hired someone under similar circumstances? I would love some advice!

Try a community college book keeping certificate..   the gap for childcare is pretty common among people that get employed through this route.   

[Need2Save]

You may want to explore a temp-agency in your area.  There are plenty of employers who need basic administrative level skill jobs that could ultimately turn into an entry level accounting position.  You don't need a ton of experience to handle basic accounts receivable or accounts payable type work. 

My sister has worked many jobs in accounting (even managerial positions) and only has a high-school degree.  They won't put you in charge of anything right away but if you can just get your foot in the door and make an impression of a hard worker who is willing to learn, it could work out for you!

Best of luck.