Four Tips for Advancing Your Accounting Career

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Moving forward in your accounting career involves careful planning. By gaining the necessary skills and experience, you set yourself up for success in your field. Follow these four tips for advancing your accounting career.

  • Earn Additional Qualifications

If you are just starting out, you may want to earn the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) qualification. This will advance your understanding of financial performance and may help you earn promotions. If you would like to move into management positions, you can complete the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) qualification. In addition, you can earn advanced degrees such as a Master of Science in Accounting. This degree will help you prepare for the certified public accountant (CPA) exam, leading to another qualification that can help you move forward. Furthermore, becoming a CPA prepares you for specialized qualifications such as a Certified Management Accountant (CMA), Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) or Certified Internal Auditor (CIA).

  • Enhance Your Soft Skills

Strengthen your communication skills by joining a local Toastmasters club. Improve your leadership skills by participating in related workshops and seminars. In addition, increase your collaboration skills by joining a sports team. Because your ability to understand, relate to, and serve clients is a vital aspect of working as an accountant, developing your soft skills helps you perform at a higher level and shows you are the best candidate for a promotion.

  • Find a Mentor

A mentor can provide you with inside information about your company and/or the accounting industry to help you be more productive in less time. A mentor can also help you create and achieve long-term career goals so you progress professionally over time. Furthermore, a mentor can connect you with contacts and opportunities that you may not have found otherwise.

  • Network

Daily connecting with new professionals and cultivating relationships increases your influence in and out of the accounting field. You increase your chances of finding new ways to advance your career. Because the majority of desirable jobs are filled by word-of-mouth rather than advertising, you may be able to interview for roles you would not have had access to otherwise. Therefore, you need to participate in accounting events such as seminars, conferences and professional association meetings.

Partner with WinCorp Solutions

For help securing your next position, contact WinCorp Solutions today.