Many industries evolve rapidly with technology, often making some jobs obsolete, or at least much more competitive. One part of business that won’t be going anywhere (unless money disappears) is accounting, making it a great career for anyone who is looking for job security. Though a lot of the job involves math, there is much more to a successful accounting career than just crunching numbers and making reports all day.
The world of accounting has many different certifications and requirements, depending on which path you choose, but no matter the path, there are a few steps you can take to better prepare you for your career as you finish your education or certifications, that can help you land your dream job.
Soft Skills
As the world becomes more and more internet-based, soft skills are becoming less and less polished. Being able to make eye contact and direct a conversation are both very important traits, even if your business is primarily remote. Mock interviews may be off-putting, but they work if, indeed, you’re someone who struggles with human interaction in the workplace.
Accountability is also becoming a lost “art,” and taking responsibility for your mistakes adds a lot of weight when discussing your successes. This pertains to both pre-employment and at the job itself. If you have gaps in your resumé, be honest about them and prepare to discuss how you will improve in that area(s) if you do get the job. If you make mistakes at work, own them and improve upon them.
Form Relationships
Another part of business that is much easier said than done is self-marketing or “networking”. There are many ways to do this from the comfort of your own home with webinars and services like LinkedIn, but approaching a potential mentor and truly listening to their advice makes you more informed, and also helps to build a network of people who can help you succeed.
If you do plan on staying completely digital, remote business mentor relationships are just as important, but a bit more difficult to convey respect and appreciation through. Be persistent, and always thank whomever you are reaching out to for their time.
Get Experience (Even if It’s Not Paid)
Paid internships are a bit easier to come by in financial fields than many other areas of study, but it’s still a very competitive process, especially if you’re searching for big-name industry giants (which you should be). However, don’t get frustrated if those don’t fly. There is often a lot of “who you know” involved in those businesses, but don’t let it deter you. One of the many good parts of the gig economy is a near-endless field of freelance accountants, many of whom need a hand every now and again. Reaching out to freelancers via LinkedIn or an email relative to their posting can result in legitimate experience that could be the difference maker when applying for a job.
Diversity
As the remote business world continues to grow, so do the scopes of hiring pools, and many companies now have members working from all over the world. With this, being able to showcase a mindset that is in tune with inclusion and diversity in the workplace is paramount for success in 2021. It’s also good for the moral compass, and will open many doors in your own journey that could ultimately have you be an employee working from another country if you find an opportunity abroad.
Change
Though not as drastic as some industries, change is still frequent in accounting. These tips will help you prepare to get your first job, but keeping them polished is important for your second, third, fourth, etc., as is keeping up to date on changes within your industry.
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