How Alan Embraced Distance Learning for Professional Growth

Charting a New Course: Alan Watson's Journey to Bookkeeping Mastery

Embracing Distance Learning for Professional Growth

ICB award winner and Feefo Platinum Award winner

Background

Alan Watson’s professional journey began in 1985, delving into the world of ground investigations within the construction industry. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish G7 Geotech Ltd in 2015, where he not only managed operations but also honed his bookkeeping skills. Recognising an opportunity to expand his expertise during a lull in early 2023, Alan turned to Training Link’s comprehensive distance learning programmes.

The flexibility and depth of Training Link’s courses allowed Alan to seamlessly integrate study into his schedule, proving that professional development is not confined to traditional classroom settings.

From Ground Investigations to Financial Insights

With a solid foundation in bookkeeping through self-directed study, Alan achieved the ICB Level 2 certification by mid-2023, earning the title of Associate Member of the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers. His dedication to excellence propelled him to complete Level 3 studies and secure an ICB Practice Licence by March 2024. Alan’s passion for deciphering financial data and aiding clients in understanding their fiscal health has become a cornerstone of his service. His commitment to clarity and precision in bookkeeping has already begun to transform challenges into opportunities for his clientele.

I really enjoy analysing company accounts and making sense of all the financial data. This can often involve assisting clients to see their financial position more clearly and enable them to make good business decisions. I am already finding with my first few clients that companies tend to seek bookkeeping services when there is an accounting problem to solve. It is important not to be put off by this, as after all, bookkeeping is about ensuring clarity where previously there may have been confusion.
Naturally, in time, with each client, I would hope to get the accounts in good shape thereby making the ongoing regular weekly or monthly tasks easier for everyone concerned. This can also involve liaison with, and providing assistance to, any number of accountants.

I have always enjoyed undertaking ground investigations for the construction industry and now feel so fortunate to have two separate roles that I really enjoy, with my bookkeeping practice being a part time role. I have named the bookkeeping practice B2 Bookkeeper Ltd and now have two businesses with numerical influences in their names, which might say something about how important numbers are to me.

Alan’s dual expertise in ground investigations and bookkeeping showcases his adaptability and the power of distance learning to open new professional avenues. B2 Bookkeeper Ltd stands as a testament to his dedication to numbers and his ability to craft a successful, multifaceted career portfolio.

 

Request a brochure

Want more information? Fill in this form for a free PDF guide.

Landing page - Generic

ICB Self-Employed Package

Perfect if you want to work as a self-employed bookkeeper. When you pass the exams you can apply for your ICB Practice Licence.

  • ICB Level 2 Certificate in Bookkeeping
  • ICB Level 3 Certificate in Bookkeeping
  • ICB Level 3 Diploma in Payroll Management
  • ICB Level 4 Self-Assessment Tax Returns

Read more »