Accounting Skills

Course Overview

1 - Getting the Facts Straight

• The first session will go over basic financial terms
• Explore their role in company finances
• Governing organizations in their area.

2 - The Accounting Cycle

• Four phases of the accounting cycle
• Key concepts: cash vs. accrual methods

3 - The Key Reports

• Take a close look at balance sheets and income statements
• Review cash flow statements and statements of retained earnings

4 - Keeping Score

• Explain the chart of accounts and single vs. double entry accounting.

5 - A Review of Financial Terms

• Introduction to some additional financial terms.

6 - Understanding Debits and Credits

• De-mystify accounting terms: debits and credits.

7 - Your Financial Analysis Toolbox

• Sources for financial data
• Tips on weeding out useless information
• Calculate common ratios
• Read an annual report, and some useful decision-making tools.

8 - Identifying High and Low Risk Companies

• Guidelines for identifying high and low risk companies.

9 - The Basics of Budgeting

• What is a budget?
• How a budget fits into the big picture
• The budgeting process

10 - Working Smarter

• Basic checklist of computer skills required for success
• How to choose an accounting package

11 - People and Numbers

• Dealing with finances
• Expense Reports
• Making cuts to someone’s pay?
• Provide tips on what to do.