How to Get Into Accounting: A Guide to Your First Accounting Job
Dreaming of crunching numbers, balancing books, and diving into the world of finance? If you're wondering how to get into accounting, you're in the right place! A career in accounting offers a stable and rewarding path, providing opportunities for financial growth and professional development. This guide will walk you through the ins and outs of launching your accounting career—from choosing your educational path to landing your first job. We'll explore the various career options available, discuss the skills that will make you stand out, and offer practical advice on job searching and interviewing. Whether you're a recent graduate or looking for a career change, with careful planning and preparation, you can break into the accounting field and start a rewarding career!
Understanding Different Accounting Fields
So you're interested in an accounting career! Accounting is a diverse field, offering numerous paths, each with its own focus and day-to-day responsibilities. It's important to explore the options to find the best fit for your skills and interests. These include the following:
General Accounting and Bookkeeping: If you're just starting out, roles like accounting clerk or bookkeeper are great entry points into the field. Accounting clerks typically handle routine tasks like maintaining financial records, processing invoices, and generating basic reports. Bookkeepers have similar responsibilities but may also be in charge of managing payroll or balancing ledgers. These roles provide valuable hands-on experience and a strong foundation, which can lead to more specialized accounting jobs over time.
Auditing: Auditors review financial records to check for accuracy and compliance with laws and regulations. Auditors can work for accounting firms, government agencies, or even large corporations and are typically responsible for examining financial statements to ensure everything is reported correctly. They may also work with public institutions like the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to ensure compliance with SEC regulations, particularly in connection with publicly traded companies.
Tax Accounting: Tax accountants handle tax filings for businesses, individuals, and other organizations and provide advice regarding relevant legislation. This field focuses heavily on understanding tax laws and helping clients minimize tax liabilities while remaining compliant with regulations.
Management Accounting: Management accountants focus on helping companies make informed financial decisions. Their work often includes creating reports that offer insights into a company's financial health, which executives use to plan budgets, optimize resources, or evaluate financial performance. This specialization involves some overlap with cost accounting, especially in smaller businesses, where both roles require analyzing costs and operational efficiency.
Cost Accounting: Like management accountants, cost accountants focus on analyzing a company's expenses, particularly around production. Their work involves calculating the cost of materials, labor, and other operational expenses and providing detailed reports that help businesses reduce costs and improve profitability through a thorough understanding of where resources are being used.
Forensic Accounting: Forensic accountants investigate financial crimes like fraud. This includes analyzing financial transactions to uncover suspicious activity in corporate accounts or during criminal investigations. These professionals often work closely with law enforcement and legal teams.
Public Accounting: Public accountants offer services like auditing, tax preparation, and consulting to a variety of clients. For example, they might prepare taxes for small businesses or audit large corporations. Public accountants often work at accounting firms that handle clients from different industries.
Understanding these varied accounting roles can help you make an informed decision about your career path. Whether you're more interested in helping businesses make strategic decisions, ensuring compliance, or investigating fraud, there's a specialization for you.
Educational Pathways for Accountants
Starting your accounting career begins with finding the right educational path. The route you choose will depend on the specific role you're aiming for, so it’s important to understand how different options pair with various accounting careers.
College Degrees: Many entry-level accounting positions, like accounting clerks or junior auditors, require at least an associate's degree in accounting or a related field such as finance. However, most employers prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree in accounting, which provides a deeper understanding of tax law, financial reporting, and general business practices. If you’re aspiring to more advanced roles, like a tax accountant or auditor, a bachelor’s degree can greatly improve your job prospects.
Internships: Internships are a valuable part of your accounting education, providing essential hands-on experience that can’t be gained in the classroom alone. During an internship, you might help prepare financial records or assist with audits, getting practical exposure to everyday accounting tasks. Internships not only sharpen your skills but also help you build a professional network, which is crucial for future job opportunities. Many students secure full-time positions with companies they interned for after graduation.
Advanced Degrees: If you’re looking to move into leadership roles or specialized positions, a master's degree in accounting or an MBA can be beneficial. Advanced degrees provide you with higher-level knowledge and skills, which is especially useful if you plan to work at larger companies or take on more complex responsibilities.
Certifications: Earning a professional certification can significantly boost your career. The most well-known is the Certified Public Accountant, or CPA, certification, which is often required for auditors, tax professionals, or those working at an accounting firm. The CPA certification is recognized as a standard of excellence. Another popular credential is the Certified Management Accountant (CMA), which focuses on strategic financial management and decision-making, making it a strong option for those interested in management accounting. For those focused on internal audits, the Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) is a globally recognized certification that demonstrates expertise in internal auditing processes. Additionally, if you're interested in forensic accounting or fraud investigations, the Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) credential is highly respected in that field. Remember that certifications like these often require continuing education to maintain.
Online Courses and Self-Study: If you’re transitioning into accounting from another career, online courses can be a practical way to develop foundational skills. Many platforms offer training in areas like bookkeeping, financial analysis, and accounting principles. Not all accountants start with a formal degree, especially in entry-level positions at smaller firms, but certifications or further study will likely be needed down the road.
Career Change Strategies: If you're making a switch into accounting from another field, you can leverage transferable skills you already have, such as analytical thinking, problem-solving, and attention to detail. You might also consider starting in an entry-level role that doesn’t require additional certifications while gaining experience and continuing your education. Apprenticeship or work-study programs can provide a practical entry point as well.
By choosing the right educational path for your desired career—whether through degrees, certifications, or self-study—you’ll be well on your way to success as an accountant.
Building Essential Skills for Accounting Careers
To successfully launch and grow in your accounting career, you'll need a diverse skill set that includes both technical abilities and soft skills. These will help you navigate the complexities of the field while effectively managing tasks and collaborating with others. Below are some key areas to focus on:
Technical Skills: Aspiring accountants need to be proficient in handling financial data and using accounting software like QuickBooks and Xero, which are commonly required in entry-level roles. Advanced Excel skills, along with knowledge of data analytics tools like Tableau and Power BI, can give you an edge when analyzing financial documents and identifying trends. Familiarity with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) is also essential for ensuring accuracy in record keeping and compliance in reporting.
Soft Skills: In addition to technical knowledge, accountants must be able to communicate complex financial information clearly and concisely. Strong organizational skills will help you manage tax returns, ensure accurate bank deposits, and stay on top of data entry tasks. Problem-solving, critical thinking, and time management are critical for navigating challenges like analyzing operational costs or conducting a risk assessment. Communication, managerial skills, and building relationships with potential clients can be especially valuable for those in management accounting or client-facing roles.
Attention to Detail: Accuracy is a non-negotiable skill in accounting. Whether you're reviewing financial documents or preparing reports, attention to detail is critical. Even small errors can lead to significant issues, so developing a meticulous approach to your work is essential.
Industry-Specific Knowledge: Understanding tax laws, financial reporting standards, and regulations specific to the accounting industry is crucial. Depending on your industry and specialization, this can include familiarity with tax returns, compliance standards, and complex financial processes. Keeping up with changes in tax laws, reporting standards, and other relevant regulations is essential and will make you an asset to both employers and potential clients.
Gaining Practical Experience: Hands-on experience is invaluable in developing your accounting skills. Internships, part-time jobs, or freelancing opportunities allow you to gain practical insights into real-world accounting processes, whether you're assisting with record keeping or preparing financial documents. Volunteering or working with local businesses also helps you build experience while contributing to your community.
Strong Ethics: Accounting is a position of trust, making ethical behavior foundational to the profession. Accountants must adhere to strict legal and ethical standards to maintain trust and ensure accuracy in their work. Familiarize yourself with the ethical guidelines provided by organizations like the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), and always follow regulations to avoid conflicts of interest.
Emerging Technologies and Trends: As automation and AI increasingly streamline tasks like data entry, auditing, and tax preparation, it's important to stay updated on these technologies. Accountants who understand and leverage these tools will be more competitive and better equipped to navigate the future of the profession.
Developing these essential skills will not only set you apart from others in the field but also provide a strong foundation as you pursue a successful career in the accounting industry.
Creating a Strong Resume and Cover Letter
When applying for entry-level accounting jobs, it’s important to tailor your resume specifically to the role you're pursuing. Start by carefully reviewing the job description and identifying the skills and qualifications the employer is looking for. Although your experience may be limited, focus on highlighting relevant coursework from your accounting degree, internships, or part-time work that demonstrate your understanding of the tax code, accounting principles, and financial reporting. Employers prefer to see how you’ve applied your knowledge, even if it’s through class projects or volunteer work, so be sure to include any practical examples. Don’t forget to highlight your soft skills as well, as these show your ability to communicate complex financial information clearly, meet tight deadlines (especially during busy periods like tax season), and think critically when analyzing financial data or making budget recommendations. These skills are just as important as technical abilities and help show that you’re a well-rounded candidate.
In addition to listing your skills, quantify your achievements wherever possible. For instance, if you helped reduce invoicing errors or improved efficiency during an internship, mention the percentage of errors reduced or time saved. Using metrics helps employers see the value you bring and sets your resume apart from others. Even small achievements in entry-level roles can make a significant impact on how potential employers view your application.
Your resume should also emphasize the technical skills that are most relevant to the accounting positions you’re applying for. Proficiency with software like QuickBooks, Xero, and Excel is highly valued by accounting firms. Be sure to mention any hands-on experience you’ve had with these tools. Understanding industry standards like GAAP is also important, so including your familiarity with them can further strengthen your application. Since attention to detail is key in accounting, ensure your resume is error-free, well-structured, and professionally presented.
Optimizing your resume for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) is essential, as many companies use these systems to scan resumes for specific keywords. To ensure your resume gets through, incorporate relevant terms from the job description like "tax preparation," "financial analysis," or specific software the employer mentions.
A well-crafted cover letter is just as important as your resume. It allows you to introduce yourself to potential employers and explain why you're a great fit for the role. Use your cover letter to build on the experiences listed in your resume, focusing on how they have prepared you for the specific position you’re applying for. Tailor the letter to each job by addressing the company’s unique needs. For instance, if you’re applying to an accounting firm that specializes in tax services, highlight your familiarity with the tax code and any experience you’ve had with tax preparation.
In both your resume and cover letter, avoid generic statements. Instead, focus on specific achievements and skills that directly relate to the job you’re applying for. By personalizing your documents and emphasizing your unique qualifications, you’ll have a much better chance of catching a hiring manager’s attention and landing an interview.
The Job Search Process
Starting your job search for your first accounting role can feel overwhelming, but with the right strategies, you can significantly improve your chances of finding the right fit. One of the most effective ways to uncover job opportunities is through networking. Building relationships in the accounting field can open doors to positions that may not even be advertised. Joining professional organizations like the AICPA (American Institute of Certified Public Accountants) or local accounting societies allows you to meet others in the industry. Attending industry conferences, seminars, or workshops not only helps you stay informed about trends but also gives you the chance to connect with potential mentors and employers. Consider working with a recruiter who specializes in accounting staffing, as they often have exclusive opportunities and direct connections with hiring managers that can help you get your foot in the door.
In addition to networking, take advantage of online job boards and platforms that specialize in accounting roles. Sites like Indeed, LinkedIn, and niche platforms regularly post entry-level jobs aimed at accounting graduates. Setting up job alerts and refining your search filters by location, job title, or company can make the process more efficient. Also, don’t forget that many accounting firms post vacancies directly on their own websites, so it’s worth checking their career pages for roles that may not be listed elsewhere.
Your LinkedIn profile plays a crucial role in your job search. Ensure it's polished and up-to-date, showcasing your relevant skills, certifications, and any hands-on experience like internships or volunteer work. Engaging with accounting-related content—whether following industry leaders, commenting on posts, or sharing articles—can increase your visibility to recruiters and expand your professional network. Making connections with people in the industry through LinkedIn can lead to valuable networking opportunities and future job leads.
Consider setting up informational interviews as part of your networking efforts. These informal conversations with experienced accounting professionals can provide you with insights into different career paths and help you get a better sense of the daily responsibilities of various roles. Even though these interviews may not lead to immediate openings, they often lay the groundwork for future job opportunities and connections.
Finally, it’s important to remember that the job search process can take time, and persistence is key. Staying patient, organized, and motivated will help you navigate the challenges that come with finding your first role.
Interview Preparation and Tips
Preparing for your first interview for an entry-level accounting job can feel intimidating, but with the right preparation, you’ll be ready to make a strong impression. One of the best ways to get ready is by practicing common accounting interview questions. These often cover both technical aspects, such as accounting knowledge, and more general questions about your experience and goals. For example, you might be asked, "How do you ensure accuracy when preparing financial statements?" or "Can you describe a time when you faced a tight deadline and how you managed it?" Make sure you're comfortable explaining key concepts and discussing how you've applied your foundational knowledge through internships or academic projects. It’s also a good idea to do some mock interviews to get comfortable with the process and boost your confidence in answering both technical and behavioral questions.
Along with technical questions, many interviews include behavioral interview techniques. These focus on how you’ve handled past situations, such as managing pressure, solving problems, or meeting deadlines. A good way to answer these is by using the STAR method: describe the Situation, the Task you were dealing with, the Action you took, and the Result. This approach helps you give clear, concise answers that highlight your problem-solving and critical thinking skills, which are essential qualities in accounting.
Before your interview, take the time to research the company. Knowing their specific needs and goals will allow you to tailor your answers and show how your skills fit with the organization’s objectives. This can help you stand out as a candidate who has done their homework and is genuinely interested in contributing to the company’s success.
When talking about your skills and experience during the interview, make sure to connect them directly to the job you’re applying for. Whether you’re highlighting your ability to analyze financial data or manage deadlines, link these abilities to the specific responsibilities of the position. If possible, relate your experiences to larger goals, like how your work could support the company’s growth or assist a chief financial officer in making informed decisions. Show that you’re informed about industry trends by mentioning emerging technologies, such as AI and automation, or discussing how economic changes might affect businesses’ accounting needs. Also, pay attention to your body language—maintain good posture, make eye contact, and dress professionally. These small details can leave a positive impression on the interviewer.
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask insightful questions about the role or the company. Ask about team dynamics, how success is measured, or opportunities for professional growth. Showing curiosity about the company’s long-term goals or how they stay ahead of industry trends can make you stand out as someone who is genuinely invested in their future.
Finally, after the interview, send a brief thank-you note. This small gesture not only shows your appreciation but also gives you the chance to reiterate your interest in the role, helping you stay top of mind with the hiring manager.
Landing Your First Accounting Job
Landing your first accounting position is an exciting step, and handling the final stages of the process carefully can make a big difference. Once you receive a job offer, be prepared to negotiate your salary and benefits. Even for entry-level roles, like an accounting clerk, there’s often room to negotiate. Before you start these discussions, research typical salaries for similar positions in your area and experience level. For instance, if the salary offered is lower than expected, you could say, "Based on the market data I’ve found, the average salary for this position is around X. Given my skills and background, is there room to discuss adjusting the salary to match that?" Be sure to also consider benefits, like health insurance, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities, as these can add substantial value to the overall package. When you’re ready to accept the offer, review the terms carefully before committing. If there’s anything you’re uncertain about, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification.
To make a strong impression from the start, familiarize yourself with the company’s structure, the software they use, and their key procedures before your first day. If your role involves specific tasks like auditing or data management, review any skills or tools that will help you succeed. Showing up well-prepared demonstrates that you’re proactive and committed to excelling in your new position.
As you get settled, it’s important to network within the company. Building relationships with colleagues and seeking out mentors can help you learn the ropes more quickly and create future opportunities within the organization. You should also set specific goals for your first few months to stay focused on your development. For example, you might aim to become proficient in the company’s accounting software within your first month or take responsibility for a key reporting process by the end of your second month.
Continuing education is key to long-term success in accounting. Even after landing your first job, consider working toward advanced degrees or specialized certifications like the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) or Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE). These credentials can help you progress into more rewarding careers, whether you’re aiming for senior accounting roles or specialized positions. The accounting field is always changing, and staying on top of new regulations, technologies, and trends will help you advance in your career.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does It Typically Take to Become an Accountant?
Becoming an accountant typically takes around four years, which is the time it takes to earn a bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field. However, the timeline can vary depending on your goals. If you plan to pursue certifications like the Certified Public Accountant (CPA), it may take additional time to meet education and experience requirements, along with passing the CPA exam. Some students may also complete internships or part-time roles while studying, which can add to the overall timeline but provide valuable experience. Overall, expect the process to take anywhere from four to six years, depending on your path and goals.
Are Certifications or Licenses Required to Work in Certain Accounting Fields?
To work in some accounting fields, specific certifications or licenses are often required. For example, becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is essential for auditors and tax professionals, while certifications like the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) or Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) are valuable for specialized roles. These credentials demonstrate your expertise and can open more career opportunities. Research which certifications align with your career goals to understand what is necessary for your desired path.
How Can Networking Help You Secure a Job in the Accounting Field?
Networking is a powerful tool in the accounting field, helping you connect with fellow accounting professionals who can offer job leads, advice, or referrals. Attending industry events, joining professional groups like the AICPA, and being active on LinkedIn can expand your network. Engaging with alumni or former colleagues can also open doors to hidden job opportunities. Building genuine relationships and staying visible within the industry will increase your chances of securing a job, even in a competitive market.
What Are Some Common Challenges Faced by Entry-Level Accountants in Their First Job?
Starting your first accounting position can come with challenges, including adapting to new software, learning company-specific processes, and balancing workloads. Many entry-level accountants also find it challenging to fully grasp complex financial concepts or navigate tight deadlines. However, seeking guidance from colleagues, staying organized, and continuing to learn can help ease these hurdles. With time and persistence, these initial challenges will become valuable learning experiences that shape your career.
How Can Accountants Stand Out in a Competitive Job Market?
To stand out in a competitive market, focus on showcasing a combination of technical skills and soft skills, such as problem-solving, attention to detail, and a strong work ethic. Highlight any relevant internships, certifications, or projects that demonstrate your passion and expertise in accounting. Tailor your resume and cover letter to each position, emphasizing how your experience aligns with the role’s specific requirements. Additionally, building a strong network in the industry and maintaining an active presence on professional platforms like LinkedIn can help you gain visibility.
Conclusion
Landing your first accounting job is a significant milestone, but it's just the beginning of your career journey. By continuously developing your skills, staying updated on industry trends, and building a strong professional network, you can position yourself for long-term success in the accounting field. Remember to be patient and persistent in your job search. The accounting world is vast and varied, offering plenty of room for growth. Keep networking, tailor your applications to each position, and practice your interview skills. With dedication and determination, you can achieve your goal of securing a rewarding accounting career.
Article Author:
Ashley Meyer
Digital Marketing Strategist
Albany, NY