A career in accounting can be suitable for you if you like dealing with numbers and appreciate being in an office environment. Accountants oversee various financial records and business accounts in addition to monitoring, documenting, and analyzing financing on behalf of a company. It is still feasible to start your career and find an entry-level accounting position if you are interested in accounting but lack experience.
If you take the appropriate steps to get experience, it is possible to start the accounting industry without any prior experience and progress in the profession. To start, you may pursue the necessary education to locate entry-level accounting positions.
When you get a degree in finance or accounting, you can start looking for entry-level positions in the field that don’t require prior experience. In that position, you can seek training to increase your understanding of accounting principles. Early in your career, it may be a good idea to gain training and experience in the accounting business by working for financial institutions and governmental organizations.
Here are some measures you may take to launch your career if you’re interested in pursuing an accounting position:
1. Research accounting types and roles
If you hope to establish your career in a new industry, you could benefit from taking the time to become familiar with the different types of accounting businesses or the roles accountants can take, including roles in accounts receivable, payroll, financial reporting and tax preparation. Research the different roles in the accounting field, including their typical duties and requirements. You can use a spreadsheet to add notes and link to helpful accounting career pages.
2. Complete your education
Many roles in the accounting industry require candidates to have a certain level of education, including at least a high school diploma. Certified accountants need a minimum of a bachelor’s degree to work in a finance company, bank or financial services institution. While in high school and college, take courses in accounting, finance, mathematics and business to learn about the accounting software you might use in the field and further develop your accounting knowledge.
3. Pursue additional training or certifications
Once you’ve completed the necessary education, consider pursuing additional training, education or certifications. Many employers consider a master’s degree equivalent to two years of experience, so earning one can help you differentiate yourself even if you lack experience.
Some programs offer online options or part-time availability if you have obligations that require flexibility. You can also ask an industry mentor for suggestions on accounting training programs.
Extended training may offer you an advantage when applying for accounting jobs without previous experience in the field. Research the preferred certifications in the field. The Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certification is a recognizable accounting certification equivalent to one year of experience, and it qualifies you to perform most accounting tasks. The Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) certification can also be useful if you hope to work in wealth management or financial planning.
4. Intern or volunteer
When you are just starting your accounting career, internships and volunteer opportunities can be helpful methods to develop your résumé. While you’re still finishing your accounting degree, think about applying for these positions. Upon program completion, several businesses offer interns or volunteers working in unpaid roles paid ones.
A financial reporting internship can improve your knowledge of financial reporting and help you develop important skills, further preparing you for the workforce. To push yourself and strengthen your résumé, think about interning or volunteering with small businesses, established companies, and governmental organizations.
5. Network effectively
Networking can be an effective way to communicate with people who have experience in the accounting field. Try attending social gatherings when possible, and develop connections online using digital tools like social media.
Search for virtual networking events to meet with other accountants and learn more about the field. Family members, friends and acquaintances may also know someone in the accounting field who can help you find an entry-level position within their organization.
6. Apply for entry-level positions
When you’re ready to apply for accounting jobs, search for entry-level openings first. Entry-level positions are beneficial for people with accounting degrees who have the required education but might not yet have experience in the field.
These listings sometimes also use the phrase “new graduate” to state that their preference is candidates who’ve completed their education and don’t have experience yet. As you search and apply for entry-level positions, be sure to continue pursuing educational and development opportunities to further develop your skills as an entry-level accountant.
In your resume, demonstrate that you have the knowledge and skills necessary for the job even if you lack experience. Mention your accounting strengths and include volunteer experiences and internships in the accounting field within the experience section of your resume. In addition, detail your college coursework and educational awards or memberships in professional organizations. These details can help supplement a lack of experience.
Following are a few entry-level accounting positions for new grads that don’t frequently call for candidates to have a lot of job experience:
Tax preparer: These individuals engage in tax preparation for both large financial institutions and small businesses using their knowledge of tax laws. They may also analyze, calculate and file income tax returns for individuals.
Accounting data entry clerk: These clerks record financial transactions and maintain databases with updated account information. They may also process account documents and file accounting paperwork.
Accounts receivable clerk: These clerks prepare, verify and record customer payments and transactions associated with accounts receivable. They also update customer files to reflect address or name changes and mergers.
Accounting assistant: These assistants work with senior accountants and perform a variety of administrative duties. They maintain and file records, answer phone calls, send invoices and resolve accounting discrepancies.
Bookkeeper: Bookkeepers track client accounts, manage financial transactions and engage in general record-keeping. They also create reports and financial statements, such as income statements.
Soft skills are particularly crucial for accounting professions since they require more than just writing journal entries and financial reports. These abilities affect how you communicate with other team members. Accounting staff interacts with a variety of organizational departments, and having strong communication and analytical abilities can help with this interaction as well as with other accountants.
