Aspiring accountants are often faced with the challenge of finding employment in a competitive job market. However, with the right skills, preparation, and networking, you can increase your chances of landing a job as an accountant. In this article, we will explore the key steps and strategies you can take to secure a rewarding career in accounting.
Before diving into the job search process, it is important to have a comprehensive understanding of the role of an accountant. Accountants play a vital role in the financial health of organizations by preparing and examining financial records. They ensure accuracy, compliance with regulations, and help businesses make informed financial decisions.
Accountants are not just number crunchers; they are strategic thinkers who provide valuable insights and recommendations to drive business growth. They are the financial backbone of an organization, ensuring that financial transactions are recorded accurately and financial statements are prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.
One of the key responsibilities of an accountant is financial statement preparation. They meticulously analyze financial data, including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements, to provide a clear picture of an organization’s financial performance. This information is crucial for stakeholders, such as investors, creditors, and management, to make informed decisions about the company’s future.
In addition to financial statement preparation, accountants are also responsible for tax planning and compliance. They stay up-to-date with ever-changing tax laws and regulations to ensure that businesses are in compliance and taking advantage of any available tax benefits. Accountants work closely with tax authorities and provide guidance on tax strategies to minimize tax liabilities while maximizing financial benefits for the organization.
Budgeting is another important aspect of an accountant’s role. They collaborate with management to develop and monitor budgets, ensuring that financial resources are allocated efficiently and effectively. Accountants analyze historical financial data, market trends, and business goals to create realistic budgets that align with the organization’s strategic objectives. They also provide regular reports on budget variances and offer recommendations for cost-saving measures or revenue enhancement opportunities.
Auditing is yet another critical responsibility of an accountant. They conduct internal audits to assess the effectiveness of internal controls and identify any potential risks or irregularities. Accountants review financial transactions, processes, and procedures to ensure compliance with company policies and industry standards. They provide recommendations for improving internal controls and minimizing the risk of fraud or financial misstatements.
Aside from financial expertise, accountants need strong communication and problem-solving skills. They should be proficient in accounting software and have a thorough understanding of taxation laws and regulations. Additionally, attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to work well under pressure are highly valued in the accounting field.
Accountants must possess excellent analytical skills to interpret financial data and identify trends or patterns. They need to be able to think critically and strategically to provide valuable insights and recommendations to management. Strong attention to detail is essential to ensure accuracy in financial reporting and compliance with regulations.
Effective communication skills are crucial for accountants to interact with various stakeholders, including clients, colleagues, and regulatory authorities. They need to be able to clearly explain complex financial concepts to non-financial individuals and provide guidance on financial matters.
Problem-solving skills are also important for accountants as they often encounter complex financial issues that require creative solutions. They need to be able to analyze problems, identify potential solutions, and make informed decisions to resolve financial challenges.
Accountants also need to be adaptable and open to continuous learning. The field of accounting is constantly evolving, with new regulations, technologies, and industry trends emerging. Accountants must stay updated with these changes and continuously enhance their skills to remain effective in their roles.
Building a strong foundation is key to kickstarting your career in accounting. While a degree in accounting or finance is typically required, consider pursuing additional certifications and licenses to enhance your credentials.
A bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance is often a minimum requirement for entry-level accounting positions. Coursework in areas such as financial accounting, managerial accounting, and taxation provide the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in the field. Consider pursuing an advanced degree, such as a Master’s in Accounting or a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certification, to stand out from the competition.
When it comes to choosing a bachelor’s degree program, it’s important to consider the reputation and accreditation of the institution. Look for programs that have strong ties to the accounting industry and offer opportunities for internships or co-op experiences. These practical experiences can give you a competitive edge and help you build a professional network.
While pursuing your degree, take advantage of any extracurricular activities or student organizations related to accounting. Joining clubs like the Accounting Society or participating in accounting competitions can provide valuable networking opportunities and demonstrate your commitment to the field.
Furthermore, consider seeking out additional certifications or licenses that are relevant to your career goals. For example, if you’re interested in working in the field of taxation, obtaining an Enrolled Agent (EA) certification can showcase your expertise in this area. Similarly, if you’re interested in forensic accounting, consider pursuing a Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) certification.
In addition to a degree, obtaining professional certifications can greatly enhance your employability as an accountant. The CPA designation is highly respected and is often required or preferred by employers. Other certifications, such as Certified Management Accountant (CMA) or Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), can also open doors to desirable job opportunities.
When pursuing certifications, it’s important to research the requirements and eligibility criteria. Some certifications may require a certain number of years of professional experience or completion of specific coursework. Take the time to understand the process and create a plan to meet the necessary requirements.
Obtaining certifications not only demonstrates your knowledge and skills in a particular area of accounting but also shows your commitment to professional development. Many certifications require ongoing continuing education to maintain the credential, ensuring that you stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and regulations.
Additionally, consider joining professional organizations such as the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) or the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA). These organizations offer networking opportunities, access to resources, and professional development events that can further enhance your career prospects.
In conclusion, while a degree in accounting or finance is a crucial first step, it’s important to go above and beyond to prepare for a successful career in accounting. Pursuing advanced degrees, obtaining relevant certifications and licenses, and actively participating in professional organizations can help you stand out in a competitive job market and position you for long-term success in the field.
Your resume serves as a crucial marketing tool to showcase your skills and experience to potential employers. Tailoring it to the specific job description significantly increases your chances of getting noticed by hiring managers. A well-crafted accountant resume can open doors to exciting career opportunities in the world of finance and accounting.
When it comes to highlighting your skills and experience, it is essential to focus on the aspects that are most relevant to the accounting field. Employers are looking for candidates who possess a strong foundation in financial analysis, budgeting, and tax preparation. Therefore, it is crucial to emphasize your proficiency in these areas.
In addition to your formal education, including details of internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer work can be highly beneficial. These experiences can demonstrate your abilities and provide real-world examples of your skills in action. For instance, if you have worked as an intern at a reputable accounting firm, you can mention how you assisted in preparing financial statements or conducting audits.
Quantifying your achievements is another effective way to make your resume stand out. Employers appreciate candidates who can demonstrate their impact on previous roles. For example, you can mention how you contributed to cost savings by implementing efficient financial processes or how you generated revenue through effective tax planning strategies. These concrete examples not only showcase your abilities but also provide evidence of your value as an accountant.
When crafting your resume, emphasize your relevant skills and experience in the accounting field. Include details of internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer work that demonstrate your abilities. Quantify your achievements by providing concrete examples of cost savings, revenue generation, or process improvements you’ve contributed to in previous roles.
Furthermore, it is essential to highlight any specialized skills or certifications that you possess. For instance, if you are proficient in using accounting software such as QuickBooks or have obtained a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation, be sure to mention these qualifications. These additional skills can set you apart from other candidates and demonstrate your commitment to professional development.
Customize your resume for each job application by carefully reviewing the job description and aligning your skills and experiences with the requirements. Tailoring your resume shows employers that you have taken the time to understand their specific needs and have the qualifications to meet them.
One effective way to tailor your resume is by using keywords from the job posting. Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to scan resumes for specific keywords. By incorporating relevant keywords into your resume, you can increase the chances of your application making it through the initial screening process. However, it is important to remain honest and transparent about your abilities. Only include keywords that accurately reflect your skills and experiences.
In addition to using keywords, you can also highlight specific achievements or experiences that directly relate to the job description. For example, if the job posting emphasizes the need for strong financial analysis skills, you can mention a project where you conducted a comprehensive financial analysis and provided valuable insights to the management team.
Remember, tailoring your resume is not about fabricating information or exaggerating your qualifications. It is about presenting your skills and experiences in a way that aligns with the needs of the employer. By customizing your resume for each job application, you can increase your chances of standing out from the competition and securing an interview.
Once you’ve impressed potential employers with your resume, the next step is to ace the job interview. Prepare for common interview questions and showcase your professionalism throughout the process.
Accounting interviews commonly include questions about your technical knowledge, experience with accounting software, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork skills. Prepare thoughtful responses that demonstrate your expertise and highlight your ability to contribute to the organization’s financial success.
During the interview, dress professionally and conduct yourself with confidence and poise. Research the company beforehand to demonstrate your interest and ask insightful questions about the company’s financial goals and challenges. Maintain eye contact, listen attentively, and articulate your answers clearly and concisely.
Networking plays a crucial role in the accounting industry, allowing you to connect with professionals who can provide valuable insights and job opportunities. Consider joining professional accounting organizations and leverage social media platforms to expand your network.
Membership in professional accounting organizations, such as the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) or the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA), can provide access to networking events, continuing education opportunities, and industry resources. Engage actively in these organizations to build relationships with peers, mentors, and potential employers.
Use social media platforms, such as LinkedIn, to connect with professionals in the accounting field. Engage in relevant discussions, share thought leadership content, and build a professional online presence. Networking through social media can help you discover job openings, gain industry insights, and connect with influential individuals in the accounting community.
By understanding the role of an accountant, preparing for your career, crafting an impressive resume, nailing the job interview, and networking effectively, you can increase your chances of landing a job as an accountant. Stay committed to continuous learning, honing your skills, and staying updated on industry trends to thrive in this rewarding profession.
Ready to start your accounting career? Search jobs now on STEMHUNTER.com!
Civil engineering is one of the fastest growing STEM careers currently. The Bureau of Labor Statistics has estimated that over the next 10 years, civil engineering jobs will grow by nearly 7%, which is around 310,000 jobs per year.
Job interviewing can be stressful, but it does not have to be when you have all the right tools. Read below to learn more on how to land your next civil engineering job.
Dress Professionally
While it is very important to impress hiring managers with your work experience and qualifications, it is also necessary to make sure that you properly dress the part for your interview.
Zippia found that 50% of hiring managers believe that the way a candidate dresses during an interview should determine if they will move on to the next steps of the interview process.
When attending an interview, consider dressing in business professional clothes. Avoid wearing flashy clothes and make sure your outfit is not wrinkled or stained. Dressing professionally will convey to the hiring manager that you took time and put in effort, ultimately showing that you are interested in the job.
Seem Interested and Be Direct
If you show up wearing nice clothes and have an impressive degree, but do not have a positive attitude during the interview, you may be eliminated from the hiring process.
When answering questions, be enthusiastic and interested in what the hiring manager is saying to you. Also, directly answer the questions you are being asked. In civil engineering, many of the tasks that you will be doing revolve around directly solving a specific problem or working on a complex design. Showing a trait of being direct during the interview may help you stand out from other candidates.
For example, if you are asked about a project that gave you difficulty and how you overcame it, do not try to sugarcoat the problem. Describe exactly what the problem was, and how you took the initiative to work it out with yourself and your team. Discuss any items that worked well, and things that maybe could’ve been better. This will show that you are a problem solver and a team player when faced with adversity and can handle the challenges that come with a career in civil engineering.
Example Interview Questions
A great way to prepare for interviews is to practice possible interview questions beforehand. When you practice answering questions, you may be able to go into the interview more confident and well-equipped compared to other applicants.
During the interview you will most likely be asked general questions about previous work experience, what your desired salary range and more. There will also be specific questions that will relate directly to the civil engineering field that you should be ready to answer.
Here are examples of questions you may be asked:
When preparing for an interview, it is best to over-prepare. Consider practicing answering questions about your skills and experience, situational-based questions and questions that test your knowledge of specific civil engineering practices.
Ask Your Interviewer Questions
Interviewing for a civil engineering job not only involves you being asked questions, but it is also an opportunity to ask the hiring manager questions so you have a better understanding if the organization is the right fit for you. Additionally, asking questions to your interviewer can show that you have researched the position and are overall interested in the role.
Civil engineers can work in a variety of industries and on a variety of projects. Because of this, you should be thoughtful of the questions you ask and utilize this time to get a better understanding of the job’s daily duties.
Here are some questions you could ask your interviewer:
These questions can give you a good sense of the type of work you will be completing and what setting they will need to be completed in.
Expect Multiple Interviews
Civil engineers can design a wide array of products like bridges, buildings, water systems and other important infrastructure that many people rely on for daily use. With designing such crucial products, employers want to make sure they are hiring the perfect candidate to avoid any type of mishaps or mistakes.
Due to this need of excellent workers, do not be surprised if your hiring process contains multiple different interviews. According to Career Sidekick, the average employer will conduct between 2-3 interviews with a candidate before an official offer is made to them.
If your hiring process is more than one interview, it is likely that you will be meeting with multiple managers and employees of the organization throughout the different rounds. Meeting with different people allows the hiring manager to get a better understanding on how you interact with others and will allow for more feedback to make sure you are the best choice for the job.
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Looking for your next civil engineering job? Check out STEMHUNTER, a job board designed specifically for STEM professionals.
The software development field is growing rapidly, and many people are interested in starting a career in this line of work. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, about 163,000 software developer jobs will open yearly over the next decade.
Like most jobs, when interviewing for a career in software, you will be required to go through an interview process but there are some key differences that make software developer interviews stand apart from traditional job interviews.
This often lengthy process is overwhelming and stressful for some, but if you practice enough, you can be on your way to landing a job as a software developer. Here are some tips for how to prepare for your upcoming software developer interview.
Make a Good First Impression
When interviewing for a job, you want to start off by making a great first impression with the interviewer. When you make a positive first impression, you are more likely to get farther into the interview process and have a better chance of getting the job.
One way you can make a great impression is to be authentic and friendly. You do not have to be over enthusiastic and loud, just be sure that you have a positive demeanor and are fully engaged in the conversation you are having. For example, Seed Scientific found that 65% of candidates that do not make eye contact during the interview process, do not get the job they are interviewing for.
Another way to make a great impression is to be a good listener. Make sure that you are listening to everything thoroughly and be attentive to what the interviewer is saying. If it appears that you are spacing out, or not fully listening to the interviewer, this can be seen as a red flag and you could have a chance of no longer being considered for the job.
Practice Interview Questions
Without a doubt, you are going to be asked different types of questions during the interview process. These questions can include the interviewer inquiring about your professional background, career experience, skills and more.
It is always better to go into an interview overprepared than being underprepared. Consider how you’d answer common interview questions. Below are some examples of questions that you could be asked.
While there is no way of knowing the specific questions that you will be asked in an interview, you can prepare with practice questions that will be likely asked. Consider ways you can incorporate your experience and accomplishments into your answers to show the interviewer that you are capable and a good fit for their role.
Ask Thoughtful Questions
A job interview is not only for the interviewer to get to know you, but also for you to understand the company more and decide if the role is right for you. Typically, you can expect the interviewer to leave time at the end of the interview for questions. This is your time to show that you came prepared and get clarification on any questions you have.
It is a good idea to prepare questions ahead of time, so you can learn more about the company and see if you would be a good fit. Some questions you could ask include:
Consider asking questions such as these to gain a better understanding of the company and position responsibilities.
Looking for more example questions? Check out this article with more questions that you could ask your interviewer.
Expect a Technical Assessment of Your Skills
Software development is a career that is built around using different tools and programs to create products and services, so it is only natural that an employer would want to test you on your expertise in these areas when interviewing for a position.
Some of the skills that you could be tested on include:
When being tested, it can be expected that you may be nervous. Do not feel like you must get a perfect score on your assessment to be able to get the job. Often, employers are looking at different aspects of the assessment to analyze your problem solving and critical thinking skills. If you are intimidated by these assessments, there are many online resources that offer example problems and situations that you could be given in a technical assessment, like this guide from Dev Community.
If you show an understanding of the tools and languages that are required for the job, it will be clear that you are a qualified candidate and will increase your probability of being extended an offer.
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Although these interviews can be lengthy and challenging, by following these tips, you can easily land your next software development job in no time.
Are you looking for your next Software Developer job? Check out STEMHUNTER, a job board made specifically for STEM professionals.
The right preparation can make all the difference when interviewing for your dream job. Check out these six interview best practices that will prepare you for your interview, allow you to showcase your talents and make a lasting impression on your interviewer.
1. Do Your Research
You’ve made it to the interview – that’s half the battle. Give yourself a fighting chance by researching your prospective employer. Researching the company will not only show your enthusiasm for the job, it will also give you an introduction to the company culture so you can determine if the company is the right fit for you.
Take a look at the company website and social media platforms. Do they post company news or have a company blog? Have they been involved in any charity or community engagement initiatives? Also, don’t hesitate to ask your recruiter for the names of your interviewers. Google their names and check out their LinkedIn profiles to familiarize yourself with their work history and current responsibilities.
2. Practice Your Interview
We’ve all been on the receiving end of a difficult interview question. How you answer can make or break your chances of getting your dream job.
Once you’ve done your research on the company, take the time to practice your interview. Think about your background and job history. Are there any gaps in between jobs? Are you changing industries? Why are you pursuing this opportunity and how will it affect your long-term career goals?
If you are new to the job hunt or just struggling with this step, try looking for outside resources. Many communities offer career development workshops and mock interviews, which can be a great way to practice your interview skills so you can nail your next job interview.
3. Interview Your Prospective Employer
Today’s job seekers are just as interested in finding a good fit as employers. Use the interview process to your advantage by creating a list of questions for your prospective employer. The information you uncover during your research will help you tailor your questions to each interview. Not only will these questions help you determine if a job is the right fit for you, they will illustrate your industry knowledge and enthusiasm for the job.
4. Pay Attention to Body Language
Interviews put you on display. They are an opportunity to showcase not only your talent, but how you interact with others in the workplace.
So, it is important to remember body language can speak volumes during an interview. Crossing your arms, biting your nails or being unable to make eye contact can count as immediate strikes against you.
If you struggle with any of these habits, take a deep breath and check in with your body throughout the interview. Try to sit comfortably with your arms relaxed at your side or on the arms of a chair, smile, and lean in when you want to show enthusiasm.
5. Dress The Part
We’ve all heard the phrase: dress for the job you want, not the job you have. This is especially true when dressing for an interview. Make sure to get a good night’s rest before your interview and give yourself plenty of time to get ready so you appear well-groomed and professional.
Remember: Even if your interview is virtual, you still need to dress the part. You only get once chance to make a first impression, and dressing professionally is the easiest way to start your interview off on the right foot.
6. Express Gratitude
The interview is over. You’ve done your best, and now all that is left to do is wait – right?
Not quite. Sending a polite and professional “Thank You” note within 24 hours can be a great way to ensure you made the best impression possible. Expressing your gratitude can also further show how passionate you are about the job.
Also, don’t be afraid to follow up with your recruiter by phone. We’ll be happy to communicate any feedback so you can stay informed and make the most out of your job search.
The impact of COVID-19 and current social distancing regulations are changing the world of work. With an increased need for employees to work from home, many organizations are utilizing video chatting platforms to conduct virtual interviews with job candidates. “We are seeing clients utilize video interviewing technology throughout the entire hiring process from initial phone screen to final interview”, says Gabrielle Christman, President & CEO of Hunter International, a STEM-focused Workforce Solutions Partner. “Candidates should adequately prepare ahead of time for their video interview to be successful and stand out to hiring managers.” Consider these tips from our team of hiring experts to put your best foot forward in your next video interview.
1. Get Your Technology in Order
To adequately prepare for a video interview, we recommend that you start by making sure that you have the right equipment to participate in the virtual meeting. Oftentimes, you’ll need working internet, a camera and a microphone. If these aren’t available to you, consider borrowing from a friend or seeing if your local library has an equipment rental program. You also should find out what platform the video interview will be held on such as Zoom, Google Hangouts or Skype. You might want to consider doing a test-run so that you feel comfortable using the platform. Familiarize yourself with the software and tools needed for the virtual meeting so that you are comfortable and prepared when it’s time for the real thing.
2. Set The Scene
Next, you should consider the environment for your video chat. We recommend utilizing a quiet space that will be free from distractions. People walking around or a loud television in the background can make it more difficult for both you and your interviewer to focus on the opportunity being discussed. Lighting is also an important aspect of a video interview. “Shadows or bright light might blur you out and make it more difficult for the interviewer to see you and focus during the interview,” says Christman. “If you can, utilize windows or lamps to help balance out the lighting in the space.” Creating a distraction-free, well-lit space will enable you to shine to your potential employer and keep you on-track during the meeting.
3. Personalize Where You Can
An often overlooked, unique advantage of video interviews is that candidates can be more creative in expressing themselves. Consider keeping some meaningful objects close by that you can show off or include in the background that tell your story. “Let your backdrop show your personality. Do you play guitar? Are you an avid traveler? Don’t shy away from dropping hints that you have interests outside of work,” advises Christman. Some other items to consider including in the background are industry-specific books, certifications or examples of your work. Overall, some personalization where appropriate will help your interviewer learn more about who you are and what you’re passionate about.
4. Treat The Meeting Like an In-Person Interview
Though there are a few differences between a video interview and an in-person interview, the overall purpose of the meeting remains the same. You should prepare just as you would for a face-to-face interview. Among other things, we recommend dressing professionally, writing down some thoughtful questions and doing your research about the organization and position ahead of time.
