How to Land Your First Remote Accounting Job With No Experience

Trying to land your first remote accounting job in 2025 without any prior experience can feel like a catch-22– You need experience to get hired, but you need to get hired to gain experience. The good news? Employers are more open than ever to training junior talent if you know how to position yourself.

This guide will walk you through practical, beginner-friendly ways to stand out in a competitive remote job market. From free certifications and freelance work to portfolio tips, analyst roles, and interview prep, each step is designed to help you build credibility–even if you're starting from scratch.

Whether you’re switching careers, fresh out of school, or building something new from the ground up, here's how to take smart, strategic action and land your first remote accounting role with confidence:

1. Get Certified in Bookkeeping or Accounting Software (Even If You're New)

Certifications are one of the most effective ways to bridge the experience gap. They show employers you're committed to the field, familiar with essential tools, and ready to hit the ground running–even if you've never held a formal accounting job.

In 2025, these beginner-friendly, remote-relevant certifications are in high demand:

• QuickBooks Online ProAdvisor Certification

• Xero Advisor Certification

• Google’s Professional Certificate in Bookkeeping (via Coursera)

• FreshBooks Partner Program (ideal for small business accounting)

Not only do these certifications teach real-world skills, they instantly make your resume more credible to hiring managers looking for entry-level remote talent.

2. Build Strong Communication Skills 

In remote accounting roles, technical ability isn’t enough. Employers also want to know that you can communicate clearly–whether it’s over email, Slack, Zoom, or a shared Google Sheet.

Strong written and verbal communication shows that you can work independently, ask the right questions, and collaborate with clients or teams without constant supervision. Being a great communicator makes you a stronger remote hire–especially when you don’t have years of experience yet.

3. Optimize Your Resume and LinkedIn for Entry-Level Remote Accounting Roles

Before a human ever sees your resume, it’s often screened by software known as an Applicant Tracking System (ATS). This tool helps companies filter through hundreds of applications by scanning for specific keywords and formatting. If your resume doesn’t match what the system is looking for, it might never reach a hiring manager–even if you’re a great fit.

That’s why formatting your resume correctly and using the right keywords is especially important if you’re applying with no prior experience.

Here’s how to optimize your resume and LinkedIn profile:

• Format your resume simply–no tables, columns, or graphics–and use a common font like Arial or Calibri

• Include keywords from the job listing like “remote bookkeeper,” “junior accountant,” or “entry-level accounting”

• List certifications, even if they’re in progress (e.g., QuickBooks, Xero, Google Career Certificates)

• Highlight transferable skills like time management, communication, and attention to detail

• Mention remote tools you’ve used: Excel, Google Sheets, QuickBooks, Zoom, Slack, etc.

• Use online tools to check if your resume is ATS-friendly

• On LinkedIn, turn on “Open to Work” (privately) so recruiters know you’re available

An ATS-compatible resume and professional digital presence make a strong first impression–even if you’re applying for your very first role.

4. Volunteer or Intern Remotely to Gain Real-World Experience

If you’re not ready to jump into paid work, volunteering or interning can be a powerful way to build experience, grow your network, and strengthen your resume. Many nonprofits, startups, and small businesses need help with basic bookkeeping tasks–and they’re open to newer professionals willing to contribute remotely.

Whether paid or unpaid, internships and volunteer roles give you credible experience that hiring managers value.

5. Start With Freelance Platforms That Welcome Beginners

Freelance job sites are one of the easiest ways to gain hands-on experience–even if you've never worked in accounting before. Many small businesses use these platforms to hire part-time or project-based help, which is perfect for entry-level candidates looking to build their portfolio and confidence.

In 2025, these remote-friendly platforms are ideal for beginner accountants:

• Upwork – Offers short-term bookkeeping gigs and flexible client work

• BELAY Solutions – Hires virtual bookkeepers with a focus on remote work

• Freelancer.com – Competitive but includes beginner-friendly tasks

• PeoplePerHour – Good for pricing your services hourly or by project
  

Freelance platforms let you build real experience and client feedback–even before landing your first traditional job.

6. Explore Analyst Roles for a Foot in the Door

If you’re struggling to land a remote job with the title “accountant” or “bookkeeper,” widen your search. Roles like Financial Analyst, Program Control Analyst, or Budget Coordinator often hire candidates with accounting skills–especially those early in their careers.

These roles focus on tasks like:

• Tracking budgets

• Monitoring project costs and timelines

• Analyzing financial data for reports

• Supporting billing, forecasting, or contract compliance

Many of these jobs exist in industries like government contracting, tech startups, or consulting, and are remote-friendly by nature. You don’t always need a CPA or years of experience–just basic Excel skills, attention to detail, and an understanding of financial processes.

Broaden your search beyond "accounting" roles, and you might find the perfect entry point into a remote financial career.

7. Prepare for Common Interview Questions–Especially for Remote Settings

Landing the interview is only half the battle–being prepared to speak clearly and confidently during a remote interview is just as important. Since many beginner accounting roles are remote-first, hiring managers want to know not only that you’re capable, but that you can manage tasks independently and communicate well without in-person supervision.

Expect questions like:

• “Tell me about yourself”

• “How do you stay organized while working from home?”

• “Describe a time you solved a problem or simplified a complex task”

• “What tools have you used for remote collaboration?”

• “Where do you see yourself in five years?” (Hint: Something like “Hopefully on the other side of the interview table” can break the ice, if the tone feels right.)

Practicing your responses with a friend (or recording yourself on Zoom) can make a big difference in how confident and clear you come across.

Conclusion

You don’t need years of experience to land your first remote accounting job–just the right strategy. By building practical skills, showcasing your potential, and targeting roles that welcome beginners, you can stand out in today’s remote job market. With consistency and focus, your first opportunity is within reach.