Sage What you need to know

Sage What you need to know by Michael Cheary Want to become certified in the one of the most popular accounting and payroll programs? A Sage idea… Whether you’ve been working in the finance industry for a while, or you’re just starting out in your career and looking for a certification to help set you apart, a Sage qualification could be the perfect way to validate your skills.Not sure what your options are? Here’s a quick rundown of what you need to know:  What is Sage?Sage is one of the world’s most popular accounting programs.Their software is used by over six million customers, in 24 countries worldwide, and is utilised by businesses of all shapes and sizes, from start-ups to large multinational corporations, and everything in between.What are the different Sage qualifications?There are two main areas you can become Sage certified in: Sage Payroll and Sage Accounts.Both are primarily concerned with the Sage 50 program. However, there is also a Sage Instant Accounts certification available , as well as Instant Payroll.Here’s a quick rundown of the main Sage certifications:Sage Instant Accounts â€" The only accredited, performance-based Instant Accounts certification program approved by Sage. Proves you have the expertise to work with Sage Instant Accounts software, and are proficient in areas such as creating invoices, calculating VAT returns and analyse spending. No prerequisites.Sage 50 Accounts â€" Becoming certified in Sage 50 Accounts allows you to prove your proficiency in the software, as well as learning to manage your cash flow, invoicing, banking, customers, suppliers and VAT at the touch of a button. Perfect for anyone looking to work for an SME.Sage 50 Payroll â€" This course will validate your skills in one of the most popular payroll software solutions in the world. Aside from improving your product knowledge, you’ll also learn to run automated calculations, and learn the latest safe and secure payroll best practices.View all Sage courses nowWhy do I need Sage?Sage is one of the most popular accounting and payroll solutions, not just in the UK, but throughout the world.In fact, with over six million customers using their software, a growing number of businesses rely on Sage to help their companies operate. And the need for Sage certified individuals is only increasing.Sage certifications prove that you’re a competent Sage user, and provide credibility to prospective employers that you’re fully up-to-speed and ready to start using their systems right away.Additionally, notwithstanding the fact many employers consider Sage skills as absolutely essential for prospective payroll and accounting positions, Sage software is also great for anyone looking to start their own business.What methods of learning are there?Sage courses are offered in a variety of different formats.It all depends on how you like to learn. You could choose to do all of your learning online, and study at times that suit you. Or you could choose to go back to school, and take a more intensive, classroom-based course.So whatever your preference, and whatever the timescale you’re working towards, there’s a Sage course out there for everyone.How long will it take?This will depend on which certification you undertake, as well as your current level of Sage expertise, and the course provider.It could anywhere from a few days to go through and complete exams for each module, through to a year of part-time studying.Advantages of becoming Sage qualifiedSome advantages of becoming Sage qualified include:A validation for your proficiency using Sage softwareIncreased earning potentialIncreased opportunities for career advancementGlobal recognitionCompetitive advantage when applying to payroll and accounting roles  Ready to start studying Sage? Find your Sage course today.