Posted October 17 2024
By Liam Fergusson
The early stages of your career journey as a Newly Qualified accountant are crucial. It can seem intimidating, juggling your personal and professional development but the decision you make now can set you up for the rest of your career.
When I speak to candidates in my network, they are often looking for advice. Which skills should they develop? How can they grow their personal brand? How can they meet some of the best and brightest in the industry?
Here are my Top 10 tips for Newly Qualified accountants.
Build Your Network
Networking is crucial for career growth. Attend industry events, join professional groups, participate in online forums or alumni groups and engage with peers and mentors. Building relationships can provide valuable insights, career advice and potential job opportunities.
Develop Soft Skills
While technical skills are essential, soft skills like communication, teamwork, and leadership are equally important. Accountants are no longer locked in an office, away from the rest of the business. These skills can set you apart from your peers and help you excel in your career – especially if you’re likely to be tasked with making presentations or explaining complex information.
Seek a Mentor
Find a mentor within your current organisation or the industry more generally. A mentor can offer guidance, share experiences and provide constructive feedback. Learning from someone who has navigated similar career paths can be invaluable.
Continue Your Development
The accounting field is dynamic, with evolving regulations and technologies. Stay updated by attending workshops, webinars and pursuing additional certifications where possible. Continuous learning will keep you relevant and proactive.
Stay Tech-Savvy
Technology is transforming the accounting profession. Familiarise yourself with the latest software and tools used in the industry. Being tech-savvy can enhance your efficiency and make you a valuable asset to your organisation – especially if you can demonstrate time-saving techniques or automated processes.
Build Your Personal Brand
A professional online presence can enhance your career prospects. Update your LinkedIn profile, share industry-related content (or write your own, if your company has a blog), get client and peer testimonials and engage with other professionals online. This can help you stay connected and visible in the industry.
Use Recruitment Professionals
Recruitment consultants can help you find the right job and provide industry insights that you wouldn’t otherwise be privy to. Building a long-term relationship with a respected recruiter can support your career development and help you find roles that align with your goals.
Manage Your Time Effectively
Time management is crucial in accounting. Prioritise tasks, set realistic deadlines and use tools like daily planners or task managers to stay organised. Effective time management can improve your productivity and reduce stress.
Understand Your Career Goals
Think strategically about your career goals. Identify the areas of accounting that interest you the most and that align with your skills. Having clear career objectives can help you make informed decisions. It is especially helpful if you are engaging with a recruitment professional that you have a focused idea as to what you’re looking for.
Embrace Change
The accounting profession is constantly evolving. Be open to new opportunities and willing to adapt to changes in the industry. Embracing change can help you stay competitive and resilient in your career.
These tips should help you navigate the early stages of your career as a newly qualified accountant. Continuous learning, adaptability and a strong sense of your accountancy niche will be key in outlining your future career.
If you’d like to speak to me about current opportunities on the market, click here to drop me an email and get in touch.