What should an accountant know before starting a job?

What should an accountant know before starting a job?

In the current context, the ability to learn and adapt to situations is vital to career growth. As you move forward your career in accounting, make sure you enhance your accounting skills as well as you are having sufficient time to learn new ones. Most of the companies are checking whether newly hired accountants are a good fit or not in their first 3 months and you should be able to prove your worth during that time.

They want to see whether newly hired accountants, especially those at the beginning of their careers, are taking direction well, picking up the technology, asking good questions, taking notes, and having a positive attitude. Dependability is a must. So is an eagerness to get things done, which most managers look for in the body language and actions of new hires.

What does an accountant do?

Accountants help people manage their finances and offer advice on how to make the best decisions regarding money. You’ll keep records and make sure they’re accurate and up-to-date. Accountants can choose many specialties, but all of them have one thing in common: money.

Depending on your specialty or the needs of a clients, other duties may include: 

  • Examining financial statements for accuracy 
  • Preparing, filing, and paying taxes 
  • Analyzing trends and financial data
  • Making budget recommendations 
  • Identifying risks and recommending solutions

What should an accountant cover before a job?

In-demand accounting skills vary by specific job title, but the following overview sets of skills for accountants can help you advance in job search and your accounting career.

Specialized experience

Many employers look for candidates with a background in accounting plus tilted specialization toward a certain field of study. A specialization, such as a focus on revenue recognition, can be a strong addition to your accounting skills.

General business knowledge

Accounting professionals who possess strong business acumen can help develop strategy and inform key decisions. They must collaborate with other departments and must be able to take on multiple roles within a company.

Up-to-date technology expertise

With advancements in software, cloud computing and automation, accountants are working with new technologies all the time. You’ll want to gain familiarity and even enhance your expertise with the specific software and tools such as:

  • Advanced Excel
  • Enterprise resource planning (ERP) (e.g., SAP, Oracle)
  • Big data analysis, advanced modeling techniques and SQL
  • Business intelligence software (e.g., IBM Cognos)
  • Hyperion (for analyst and financial reporting roles)
  • QuickBooks (for positions with small and midsize firms)

Communication skills

Accountants need to be able to tell the story behind the numbers, particularly for colleagues in other departments. Both verbal and written communication skills are critical for success in any accounting role.

Adaptability and flexibility

Adaptability and flexibility are also top among the skills accounting professionals possess. A key driver for this trend is technological change, like the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) as a critical business tool. The ability to pivot and roll with change is an absolute must.

Leadership abilities

Managers have an eye on the future and want professionals who possess strong leadership qualities and who can step into more senior roles when the time is right. They look for individuals who can avoid or resolve conflicts, adapt well to change, mentor others and embrace continuous learning.

Customer service orientation

Whether you work in public or private accounting, you need to be able to retain current customers and bring in new clients. You must meet the needs of the organization’s other departments and managers. Good customer service skills are critical if you want to succeed in the professional world.

Quick tips to consider while preparing

1. Nurture Relationships Early

The majority of new hires are internal or people they know, whether that be because they’re close friends or just a very weak connection. With most businesses being active on social media nowadays, it’s easier than ever for newly qualified candidates who are complete strangers to make themselves known.

2. Be Frank and Open About Your Career

It’s one thing to be vague and another to be realistic and honest. Employers don’t like vague applications, so that won’t help you land your ideal job. Showing on your LinkedIn profile and CV that you’re open to taking risks will help you come across as a real, open person.

3. Research The Company Inside Out

LinkedIn is one of the best places to research companies and the people that work for them. With just a simple search you can find out about their projects, history, management, stakeholders and personalities. Some companies even share information on their culture and what they want from candidates.

If you are looking to get your dream job in accounting and want to get a hands on experience, contact Kloudac Global to be enrolled to be a part of our Accounting Training Program

Call: +94 777 870 464 / +971 5043 53515  

Email: info@kloudac.com

Website: www.kloudacglobal.com

KLOUDAC Global

KLOUDAC Global is a dedicated expansion of KLOUDAC, a recognized accounting firm with branches in Dubai, London & Colombo with 15 years of service experience. KLOUDAC Global mainly focuses on back office accounting with a whole package of services such as Financial Consultancy, Business setup, Audit and assurance services, Taxation services, Recognized accounting software, and more.

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