Accounting has always been a popular career choice for those with an interest in mathematics and analytics and focusing on this particular route can lead to a whole host of opportunities. According to a study, there are over 1 million accounting roles available in the U.S every year which means that the demand for candidates is extremely high. While this may be the case, knowing how to prove your abilities and go on to reach your full potential is essential for making it as a successful accountant.
In this article, we’re going to look at some of the best ways to take your accounting career to the next level.
Get the right experience
Regardless of whether you have recently decided to switch careers or start a business in the accounting field, it’s important to get the necessary level of experience. The type of experience you need will heavily depend on which niche in accountancy you wish to get into.
One of the best ways to get a practical understanding of the field is to volunteer at a company to get your foot in the door. Small-scale organizations and charities with low budgets may appreciate career-driven volunteers to lend a helping hand in the accounts department, which also works in the favor of the individual as they are being given the opportunity to learn their craft in a professional setting and build their confidence.
Relevant qualifications
To become a well-respected accountant, getting the relevant qualifications are a necessity. There are several recognized qualifications in the industry which will help forward your career, including the likes of an online MSA Degree. This course is beneficial for both those who have already studied a bachelor’s degree or don’t have any prerequisites at all. It covers a range of essential topics, including tools and emerging technology, accounting data interpretation, business strategy and modelling and leadership and management.
Network
Being able to network is a huge benefit to any motivated professional who wishes to push their career in the right direction. A network can include family, friends and professionals already in your desired field, but the aim is to keep in contact with those who can help forward your career. Networking ultimately enables you to gain visibility, build long-term relationships and hopefully, be the first to know about new opportunities that arise. A significant percentage of employment prospects derive from positions that were never advertised online but are offered to individuals simply through recommendations as a result of networking.
Focus on soft skills
While accounting relies heavily on analytics and mathematical skills, technical expertise isn’t the ‘be all and end all’ to gain success. Professionals in this field should also have a range of soft skills under their belt to enable them to become a more well-rounded individual and impress employers. Soft skills include the likes of:
- Organization
- Communication
- Empathy
- Decision-making
- Time management
The bottom line is that taking your accounting career to the next level all depends on having long-term plans. Having this mindset will enable you to pick the best route for your desired career outcomes.
