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Are you considering a career in accounting and wondering where to start? We understand that undertaking a new career can feel overwhelming, but we're here to help you navigate the complexities of the accounting career path.

Whether you're a student shaping your future or considering a career change, we're excited to help you learn more about accounting, including starting a career in the field and the vast job opportunities that come with it.

How To Start Your Career in Accounting

Starting a career in accounting involves a combination of education, training, and the development of both soft and hard skills. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

Education and training

To start a career in accounting, having a solid educational foundation is essential. You can begin by obtaining a bachelor's degree in Accounting or a closely related field. 

In addition, many professionals pursue advanced degrees, such as a Master's in Accounting , to expand their knowledge and improve their job prospects. 

You should also consider obtaining certifications like the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) or Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA).

After building a solid educational foundation, it is essential to transition into on-the-job training, which is a crucial phase in your accounting career. Entry-level positions usually offer comprehensive training in accounting practices, organizational systems, and industry-specific tools. This practical experience will enhance your accounting knowledge and add value to your resume. 

Soft and hard skills

Achieving success as an accountant extends beyond completing academic requirements; possessing essential soft and hard skills is vital. So, in addition to the intellectual part, a successful accountant must cultivate a diverse skill set encompassing technical proficiency and interpersonal abilities.

Let's explore the essential soft skills for a successful accounting career:

• Effective written and verbal communication: Crucial for conveying complex financial information to clients and colleagues.
• Analytical capabilities: Essential for interpreting intricate data and drawing meaningful conclusions.
• Attention to detail: Non-negotiable given the precision accounting demands.
• Time management: Critical for navigating multiple tasks and meeting tight deadlines.
• Ethical conduct: Necessary for handling sensitive financial information with integrity.
• Adaptability: Essential for navigating the evolving landscape of accounting practices and technologies.

In addition to acquiring soft skills, a successful accountant should focus on developing specific hard skills. When combined with a solid educational background, these hard skills provide you with the expertise necessary to excel in your roles and make valuable contributions to financial processes and decision-making:

• Proficiency in accounting software: Essential for efficient financial management.
• Understanding of financial reporting: Encompasses preparation of income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements.
• Knowledge of taxation laws and regulations: Essential for handling tax-related responsibilities.
• Audit skills: Integral to ensuring financial accuracy and compliance.
• Mastery of spreadsheet software: Crucial in data analysis and reporting.
• Data analysis techniques: Important for extracting meaningful insights from financial data.
• Knowledge of legal and regulatory compliance: Includes the integrity of financial practices.

Private Accounting vs. Public Accounting

Private accounting and public accounting represent two distinct career paths within the accounting field, each with unique responsibilities and characteristics. 

Private accounting refers to the accounting activities conducted within an organization, whether it's a small business, a large corporation, or a nonprofit entity. Professionals in private accounting typically work as internal accountants, controllers, or CFOs, managing the financial records, budgets, and financial reporting of the organization they are employed by. They focus on providing accurate and timely financial information to support internal decision-making.

On the other hand, public accounting involves providing accounting services to external clients, often through a public accounting firm. Public accountants offer services such as auditing, tax preparation, and consulting to various clients, including businesses, government entities, and individuals. Their work is often governed by regulatory bodies to ensure the integrity and transparency of financial reporting.

Top 10 Accounting Career Paths

If you obtain a degree in accounting, you will have access to a variety of career options. A major in accounting will qualify you for numerous positions in both traditional accounting and other financial industry roles. Some of the positions you could pursue include:

Bookkeeper

Bookkeepers play a crucial role in financial management by recording and organizing a company's daily transactions. Their duties include maintaining ledgers, reconciling accounts, and producing financial reports. With their keen attention to detail, bookkeepers ensure the accuracy and completeness of financial records. 

Businesses rely on their expertise to have an up-to-date understanding of their financial status, which allows them to make informed decisions and comply with financial regulations.

Auditor

As financial detectives, auditors have a critical mission to investigate and verify the accuracy of financial records. Their job involves:

• Reviewing of financial statements
• Assessment of internal controls
• Examination of business operations to identify any discrepancies or potential fraud

Auditors ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations while providing valuable recommendations to improve financial processes and safeguard against risks.

Certified public accountant (CPA)

Certified public accountants (CPAs) are financial professionals who have undergone a rigorous examination process and demonstrated practical experience. Their expertise goes beyond traditional accounting, including tax planning, forensic accounting, and consulting services. 

CPAs are trusted advisers who help guide businesses and individuals through complex financial landscapes, providing tailored solutions that meet their unique needs while ensuring compliance with ever-changing regulations.

Financial analyst

Financial analysts play a strategic role in the financial world. They analyze market trends, economic indicators, and company data to provide valuable insights. Their work involves evaluating investment opportunities, conducting risk analysis, and contributing to financial planning. Businesses rely on financial analysts to make informed decisions, allocate resources effectively, and navigate the complexities of the financial markets.

Forensic accountant

Forensic accountants investigate financial irregularities, fraudulent activities, and financial misconduct. They employ various techniques, including auditing and investigation, to uncover financial fraud and provide expert opinion in legal proceedings. They work for law enforcement agencies or private organizations and have a critical role in maintaining the financial integrity of institutions.

Certified management accountant (CMA)

Certified management accountants (CMAs) specialize in management accounting, focusing on the strategic financial aspects of an organization. They contribute to decision-making by providing insights into cost management, budgeting, and performance evaluation. CMAs are essential in developing financial strategies that align with organizational goals, ensuring sustainable growth and profitability.

Tax accountant

Tax accountants navigate the complex and ever-changing landscape of tax regulations. Their role involves:

• Preparing tax returns.
• Advising on tax planning strategies.
• Ensuring compliance with tax laws.

In addition to minimizing tax liabilities, tax accountants provide valuable guidance to businesses and individuals on the financial implications of various transactions, helping them make tax-efficient decisions.

Personal finance adviser

Personal finance advisers are financial coaches guiding individuals through the complexities of personal financial management. They assist with budgeting, investment planning, retirement strategies, and other aspects of financial well-being. Personal finance advisers tailor their advice to their client's unique circumstances and goals, empowering them to make informed choices for a secure financial future.

Accounting professor

Accounting professors are educators who impart their wealth of knowledge and experience to aspiring accountants. They teach courses on accounting principles, financial reporting, and advanced accounting topics. Beyond the classroom, accounting professors contribute to academic research, shaping the future of accounting practices and inspiring the next generation of financial professionals.

Chief financial officer (CFO)

Chief financial officers (CFOs) are top-level executives responsible for the overall financial health of an organization. They lead financial planning, risk management, and strategic decision-making. CFOs play a crucial role in setting the financial direction of a company, ensuring stability, and aligning financial goals with the organization's broader objectives. As critical members of the executive team, CFOs contribute to shaping the long-term success and sustainability of the business.

Accounting Job Outlook

The employment outlook for accountants and auditors is promising, with a projected and an estimated 126,500 job openings annually. This rate aligns with the average for all occupations, indicating steady expansion within the industry.

A majority of job vacancies in the field of accounting and auditing arise from the need to replace retiring or transitioning workers. This process indicates a consistent demand for skilled professionals in this field and presents potential opportunities for job seekers seeking a career in accounting and auditing.

Challenges and Considerations

Starting a career in accounting involves several challenges and considerations that you should carefully weigh. One significant aspect is the need for ongoing education. Despite establishing a solid foundation through an accounting program, professionals in this field must recognize the ever-evolving nature of laws and regulations influencing their work. Continuous learning and higher education become essential, often in the form of certifications.

Obtaining and maintaining these certifications and additional continuing education requirements require a significant time and effort commitment to staying up-to-date with industry changes.

Moreover, the perception that accounting work can be monotonous is acknowledged within the profession. Although some aspects of the job may involve dull number crunching, the problem-solving and evaluative components offer intellectual stimulation.

In addition, there are busy seasons, particularly for tax accountants, which introduce intense activity and potential stress. Managing client deadlines and last-minute information submissions becomes crucial during these periods, highlighting the need for adequate time and stress management skills in accounting.

The Bottom Line 

In conclusion, pursuing a career in accounting can be a wise and rewarding choice due to its versatility, numerous career options, and high demand for skilled professionals. The accounting field offers many opportunities, from traditional to more specialized roles.

For those considering a career in this field, Our Lady of the Lake University stands out as an excellent institution that provides a comprehensive education in accounting. You can choose from a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) with a concentration in Accounting or a Master of Science degree in Accounting .

Let your future in accounting begin here.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What can I do with an accounting degree?

With an accounting degree, you can pursue various career paths, such as:

• Public or private accountant
• Financial analyst
• Government accountant
• Forensic accountant
• Chief financial officer, and more. 

Is accounting right for me?

If you find joy in working with numbers and paying attention to detail, and financial matters pique your interest, then accounting could be your perfect career path. Assess your skill for analytical thinking and your preference for working with data. If these align with accounting tasks, this profession could be an excellent fit for you.

How do I start a career in accounting?

Steps to start a career in accounting include:

• Obtain a relevant degree (e.g., Bachelor's in Accounting).
• Gain practical experience through internships or entry-level positions.
• Consider obtaining professional certifications for career advancement.
• Build a network within the accounting community.

What are the three major areas of accounting?

Three types of accounting are essential for businesses: cost, managerial, and financial. Each serves distinct purposes and contributes to varied objectives.

What are the two main career paths in accounting?

The two main career paths in accounting are:

• Public Accounting: Working for accounting firms that provide services to various clients.
• Private Accounting: Working within a specific organization, managing its internal financial processes.

What skills are needed in accounting?

Essential skills in accounting include, but are not limited to:

• Attention to detail.
• Analytical and critical thinking.
• Strong communication skills.
• Ethical judgment.
• Knowledge of accounting software.
• Time management and organizational skills.