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deedee38 said:
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I’m currently completing the ICB Level 2 & 3 Bookkeeping & Accounts qualifications, followed by Level 3 Payroll Management and Level 4 Self Assessment Tax.
I’d really appreciate some honest advice on employment prospects afterwards.
I have no previous experience or background in finance/accounting, and I want to know how easy or difficult it is to secure an entry-level job in an accountancy/ bookkeeping practice after qualifying?
What sort of starting salary/pay could I realistically expect? (I'm based in London).
I’m only interested in employment prospects at this stage, rather than setting up my own practice, as I need a level of stability at the beginning before going straight into self-employment.
I’d be grateful to hear from anyone who has either hired people at this level or started their accounting/bookkeeping career in a similar position. What types of roles should I be looking for? And what are starting salaries like?
Edited at 11 Aug 2026 08:30 PM GMT”
Hi deedee38, I have been studying with the ICB for a few years and worked in finance positions for about 25 years starting as a Credit Controller, Purchase Ledger Clerk through to Assistant Accountant and everything in between. I found when I started at the basics in Credit Control starting salaries were not great but it was an easy field to get into, from there I built up my skill set either within that role or moving to another.
Salaries at the moment seem to be very competative and even some entry level positions are offering decent money, more so in London.
Looking at some job sites salaries vary from basic £27K as minimum wage up to £35K for Accounts Assistants with knowledge of AP & AR with some over spill into trial balance, P&L and balance sheets/Accruals and prepayment journals. Some roles can be a mixed bag. 12 months ago I wasnt seeing much on the market but at the moment there are some good roles out there. I found as well that onboarding with recruitment agencies that specialise in finance recruitment is a good way to get someone else ie the agency to sell your skills on your behalf. Sometimes all you need is that foot in the door, the ability to learn quick and listen is all you need to start your career!
Best of luck and hope you are successful in your job search. I am currently looking at starting my own bookkeeping business based on my years of experience.
Edited at 13 Aug 2026 07:45 PM GMT
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