Are you looking into work in the accounting or finance sector? You’ve chosen a good time. Jobs in this sector are expected to grow eight percent between now and 2024, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – adding about 632,400 new jobs nationwide. With a median annual wage of $64,790 as measured by the BLS, accounting and finance also offer better chances at family prosperity than many industries.
Here are five things to keep in mind as you start your accounting or finance path:
- You can start without a college degree. Individuals without a degree in accounting or finance often begin their work in the field as bank cashiers, where they gain firsthand experience in handling daily transactions. Working your way up to senior cashier or bank manager can offer a solid boost to your resume and your income. Or start as a cashier while earning the credits you need for a degree in accounting or finance.
- Carve your niche with a specialist position. In the finance sector, specialists like card services team members or operational managers often start by working as cashiers. These specialists can often make themselves indispensable to their institutions simply by finding a topic they enjoy and learning all they can about it.
- Find a company that offers a clear path upward. Being stuck in a “dead-end” job is no fun in any industry. To make the most of your entry into finance or accounting, choose a company that offers you a clear path to career advancement. Many accounting firms offer ways for their accountants to continue developing their skills and push toward partnership.
- Capitalize on essential “soft skills.” Even if you’ve never “crunched the numbers” before, chances are that you have developed job skills that are essential in accounting and finance. Find examples in your past work of times your attention to detail, ability to communicate complex ideas simply, or integrity and accountability paid off. Use these as the foundation for your application materials and interview responses.
- Don’t forget to seek professional assistance. A recruiter who works with companies in the accounting or finance sector can help you find the position that is right for your skills and that will help you grow into the work you want.
At Burnett’s Staffing, our experienced recruiters connect current and future accounting and finance professionals with some of the best companies to work for in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. If you’re looking for a position in Los Colinas, Arlington, Irving, or the DFW area, contact us today.
