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Payroll management is one of the most important business functions. Every business, whether big or small, needs the services of trained professionals to compile the data, process employees' earnings, compute employee work hours, make pay adjustments, prepare their income tax statements and maintain employee records. The job requires high degree of efficiency in using high-end software systems; in-depth understanding of compensation, pensions and benefits; crucial skills in a number of areas, including project management, critical analysis and people management. In order to work as a payroll manager, you have to be certified with the local governing authority. And you're eligible to write this exam only after you complete an advanced/specialized program in payroll. So, can't you work in payroll department of an organization if you are certified? On asking Josh, a payroll manager at a mid-size healthcare firm, he says that this is not mandatory though but it demonstrates your interest in the occupation. Besides, it shows that you have the skills to perform well in this job. Employers also have a perspective that you have gone an extra mile to build a career in a field that you really like. You have chances for being hired for a higher designation. Therefore, attending a payroll management program and getting certified really pays. Josh further says that he himself was an accounting professional for three years before considering payroll as a career. “Actually, I was in the same profile for three years, with added responsibilities and slightly higher pay package each year. But that wasn't all I was looking for.” He says. “Though I was not unfit for a position in payroll department but my supervisor wasn't convinced of my competencies. So, I decided to take a call. I decided to acquire specific knowledge and skills to switch my job.” Josh says further. He entered in Centennial College's one-year graduate certificate program in payroll management in 2012. When the session began, he was more than pleased to find that he wasn't the only one who's back to the school. There were his classmates who had enrolled in the course after spending years in their respective jobs. Also, there were those who were coming straight from post-secondary courses. The curriculum was a mix of classroom sessions, projects, case studies, report writing, presentations, guest lectures and teamwork. Alongside he joined the CPA, which made him eligible to receive the Payroll Compliance Practitioner (PCP) from the Canadian Payroll Association, as soon as he graduated from the course. The program was a great experience for Josh as he reaped multiple benefits. He acquired new skills in strategic compensation, payroll compliance, payroll systems and business communications. Besides, he gained managerial skills, project management and human resource management skills. Not only this, he developed strong perspectives by studying cases of the leading companies and best payroll management strategies. Josh chose to do what most people won't do. But instead of compromising and doing his previous job half-heartedly, he took a strong decision to chase his dream. You can also consider going back to the school, if you wish to avail more advanced career opportunities.
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