Ask the Accounting Community

Accounting is a popular industry because the work is reliable, in-demand and it can be a lucrative area to work in. Businesses of all shapes and sizes always need good accountants, making it an intelligent area to pursue.

 

However, accounting can also be a difficult field to enter and hard to excel in because it requires a range of skills. What’s more, it can be highly competitive. With this in mind, here is a guide to how you can get on the right career path and find work in this industry. Provided that you are willing to put the work in, there is no reason why you can’t excel as an accountant and enjoy a rewarding career.

 

 

To be a successful accountant, you will need a wide range of skills and more than just being good with numbers. You should also develop soft skills which can be helpful in finding work. These include time management, communication, presentation, and leadership skills. You can easily acquire them through reading, practice, networking, and by attending courses.

 

 

In order to find work, it will be of great value to earn a Bachelor’s degree (this will be a minimum if you want to become a CPA). These degrees are popular and common at colleges all around the country. If you are struggling to afford to attend college, then you could look into a scholarship. For those who are talented in sport, why not browse www.asmscholarships.com to find a scholarship to suit you?

 

 

You will also need to decide if you want to be an accountant or a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). Accountants usually work in the accounting department of a business; a CPA must meet a number of requirements but can represent clients before the IRS, conduct audits and review statements. Nearly all accountants also specialize in at least one area of practice, such as public accounting or corporate accounting.

 

 

Getting your foot in the door is a huge challenge. Take any opportunity that presents itself even if it is short-term work or an internship. Additionally, you should be networking by attending any industry event and by using social media to increase your circle. By doing so, it could help to open up new opportunities.

 

 

There is always more that you can learn as an accountant which can increase your employability and provide you with the skills and knowledge that you need to exceed. It could be going back to college to get a Master’s degree, learning how to use new software and technology or brushing up on your business skills. It is essential to stay afloat on all of the latest industry trends and news too.

 

These are the main steps that you need to take to become an accountant. It is a great industry to work in as there will always be a demand for good accountants, plus it can be a rewarding and lucrative career path. It can be competitive and hard to find work, but the above advice should help you to find the job that you are after.