Whether you’re a university graduate, considering an apprenticeship, or toying with the idea of retraining, a career in accountancy is a rewarding and lucrative move. The sector continues to grow each year and offers almost guaranteed professional growth.
But navigating the world of tax, audit, advisory and compliance involves more than just crunching numbers – it requires deep thought and strategic planning.
Before you apply for a course or jump on the job market, it’s important to consider the type of accountancy that interests you and what type of firm you’d like to work for.
Not sure where your interests lie, what area of accountancy suits your skillsets best, or which rung to step onto when climbing the accountancy ladder?
At Public Practice Recruitment Ltd, we know public practice accountancy like the back of our hands. We’ve been filling roles for over 20 years, working hand-in-hand with candidates to help them land the perfect role… and we’re here to do the same for you!
Here’s our helpful guide to set aspiring accountants on the right path.
Understand the Industry
Accountancy is a very broad field. From auditing and tax to financial analysis and management accounting, there are many nuances to navigate.
While it may be confusing at first, see it as a good thing! The variety in accountancy means a plethora of jobs, which is great news for candidates looking to join the profession.
To fully understand each area of accountancy and their differences, it’s important to conduct your own extensive research. This will improve your understanding and help you identify which specialism interests you the most.
Get Qualified
While having a degree in accountancy or a relevant subject is a great start, you should consider extending your list of qualifications.
Jobs in accountancy can be competitive. Therefore, the more qualified you are, the better your chances are at securing a good job and climbing the professional ladder further down the line.
Here are some certifications that you may consider:
- CA (Chartered Accountant)
- ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants)
- ACA (Associate f The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales)
- AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians)
- ATT (Association of Tax Technicians)
Gain Practical Experience
You may have passed your exams with flying colours, but practice experience is just as important as qualifications. Without it, your applications may be overlooked.
Internships and entry-level positions are a great way to learn the tricks of the trade from an experienced team. Not only will these jobs help you find your feet within the industry, but they will also help you create a list of contacts which may benefit you in the future.
Build Your Network
Ever heard the saying “it’s not what you know, it’s who you know?”
Networking is key to the accountancy profession. It heightens your visibility, highlights your professionalism and helps you connect with experts who may be able to provide you with industry insights, and maybe even career opportunities.
A great place to start is attending industry seminars or webinars, joining professional bodies, and actively engaging in online forums and communities related to accountancy.
Continued Professional Development
The world of accountancy, and finance as a whole, is constantly evolving.
Whether it’s the emergence of AI technology, changes in regulation or new industry trends, it’s important that you take continuous notice of the market.
LinkedIn, Instagram and online community groups are a great way to stay abreast of the latest news in accountancy.
Write a Strong CV and Cover Letter
We know CV writing is something that doesn’t come naturally to everyone – but it’s an absolute requirement when applying for accountancy positions.
Your CV and cover letter should clearly demonstrate your skills, education, experience and certifications. Double check it’s formatted correctly, looks neat on the page, and includes your important contact information.
While we appreciate that tailoring your cover letter for every application can be a time-consuming task, it’s a clever way to show your commitment to your potential employer and help you stand out.
Going through a CV writing block? Need a little inspiration? Click here to read our helpful CV writing tips!
Apply Strategically
While it may be tempting to hit ‘Easy Apply’ on every LinkedIn job you see, it’s important to take a calculated approach to applying for jobs. After all, why waste your time applying for a job that doesn’t interest you?
Take the time to find opportunities that match your qualifications and interests. While the job spec is important, don’t see it as the be-all-end-all. Even if you meet most, but not all, all the listed requirements, it’s worth still applying.
By using an experienced and trusted recruitment agency like Public Practice Recruitment Ltd, you can benefit from established relationships built with firms across the country, two decades of experience placing talented candidates with firms, and an unrivalled presence in the market with a strong understanding of the challenges and opportunities for accountants in the current market.
Prepare for Interviews
Interviews offer a rare opportunity for you to unashamedly sell yourself. It’s your chance to shine and show your potential employer your professionalism and personality.
Take time to understand the firms you’re interviewing with, the types of questions they may ask, and how your skills and experience align with their needs.
Looking to ace your interview game? Your body is your best friend! Click here to read our blog on how to embrace non-verbal language as a way to heighten your chances of being the successful candidate.
Be Positive and Persistent
We know that job hunting can be a tedious and disheartening process. The job market is particularly competitive right now due to the ongoing skills shortage.
If you start to feel exhausted by the process, remind yourself that finding the right job often takes time and a lot of backwards and forwards. View rejections as redirection, seek feedback to improve your interview game and future applications, and try to keep a positive frame of mind. Your consistent efforts will be rewarded, we promise!
This is a part of the recruitment process where candidates often see the most benefit from working with us. We don’t just put your CV in front of the right people, we are the intermediary between you and the firm, taking the back and forth off your plate and steering the relationship with your best interests at the forefront.
Wrapping Up
Starting a career in accountancy requires a blend of education, practical experience and continuous learning. By following our guide, you’ll be well on your way to making a name for yourself in the accountancy field.
Remember, the journey into accountancy is as rewarding as it is challenging. The opportunities for growth are plentiful and the job satisfaction is second-to-none.
Here at Public Practice Recruitment Ltd, we’re proud to represent some of the most talented, forward-thinking candidates in the UK, securing them opportunities with leading firms up and down the country.
Whether you’re ready to apply to jobs or looking for advice from an industry expert, we’re here to pull up our sleeves and make finding your dream job an ease! Get in touch with us today to begin.
