In recent times, finding entry level accounting jobs have become increasingly difficult. There are several hurdles that you will need to overcome; however, you can certainly get through them and have a successful career if you approach landing the accounting job of your dream with the right effort and attitude.
One of the biggest challenges college students and graduates encounter when planning a career in this industry is first and most significantly, the lack of open accounting positions. However, you have to acknowledge, even through tough economic times, that accounting and finance jobs are still very much available. Like in any other industry, there will always be people retiring from a business, changing employment, losing their jobs as a result of poor performance and even businesses expanding and creating new opportunities. Thus, if you remain focused and prepared, you will always find the chance to land one of the entry level jobs available in accounting and finance.
About Entry Level Accounting Jobs
Preparing for Entry Level Accounting Jobs
As already mentioned, entry level accounting jobs can be tough to get as you will have to face very stiff competition any industry has to offer. As a junior accountant, you might start off working for the government, small or medium enterprises, CPAs and Non-Profit organizations. There are plenty of jobs available in the accounting and finance industries as long as you have the right education. However, you have to be prepared and ready for them.
Here are five sure steps that can help you get started in your accounting or finance career.
Step 1:
The World Wide Web is full of opportunities for prospective employees in any industry, including accounting and finance. As you may already know, there are several job posting sites online for fresh accountants. Apart from the popular sites, you might also want to check out small forums and communities for accounting and entry level finance jobs. Better still, there are several free websites where you can find jobs in your industry without registering. Alongside these sites, consider submitting your resume to the local CPA network, you never know where your first phone call might come from.
Step 2:
Build a strong network for yourself. Get to know, and establish a social interaction with people who might be interested in hiring accountants. Even if they do not hire you, these contacts might come in handy when you need references. Also, talk to your friends and neighbors about your desire to start a career in accounting.
Step 3:
Make your resume as professional and objective as possible. This is going to be your most important marketing tool. Alongside this, ensure that you polish your interviewing skills in readiness for your first job interview. In case you are not getting as many calls as you may want to for your finance or entry level accounting jobs, be sure to recheck and fine tune your resume.
Step 4:
When you are invited for an interview, ensure that you are punctual. Provide straightforward answers and never hesitate to play with the numbers whenever an opportunity presents itself. Remember, there are different categories of accounting and finance jobs; thus, you need to be clear about the direction you want your career to take.
Step 5:
Take your accounting or finance internship very seriously. Besides giving you the initial feeling of the industry you are about to join, this will also provide you with a much needed work experience that will give you a competitive advantage. During your internship, try to get as many contacts as possible; you will need them when searching for your full-time job.
Tips for Success in the Industry
Just like in most other industries, success in finance and accounting industries does not come easily. Besides working hard, you must also learn to work smart in order to succeed. Your paycheck as an accountant will no doubt be fat; however, letting the salary dictate the choice of your career path is definitely not a prudent idea. Here are two crucial tips that will help you have a successful career in the accounting and finance industries.
1. Start off by getting your degree from an accredited and reputable school. There will always be accounting and finance jobs available; however, unlike in the previous years, competition for jobs in these industries has grown tremendously in recent times. This is why you need to get a head start by receiving the best possible education.
2. Always keep your eyes open for new and better offers. Once you have secured your entry level job, do not sit back satisfied. There are plenty of opportunities out there waiting for you. Remember, there is always room for growth in these industries. For instance, if you are good at preparing budgets, why not go for the position of Corporate Treasurer in a big firm? Let the sky be your limit.
Average Annual Salary of Entry Level Accounting Jobs
As of 2009, the average salary for accountants in the US was $67,430. Senior accountants earned $104,450 while entry level accounting jobs paid $37,690 per annum. The five states that paid accountants the highest include:
- New York at $84,280
- Washington DC at $79,990
- New Jersey at $79,330
- Maryland at $76,220
- Massachusetts at $73,290
Success in finding entry level accounting jobs is defined by hard and smart work, drive and perseverance. Your degree and calculator will never be enough to do the magic. Since there are several types of accounting and finance jobs available, you need to ensure that you make the right decision. With adequate preparation and effort, you will certainly get the accounting job of your dreams.