How Can I Improve Myself As An Accountant?

Throughout my accounting career, I have continued to encounter all kinds of challenges around the typical accounting activities, especially during the month-end close. Trying to meet deadlines that management was always looking to reduce.

Trying to ensure everything was being done (journals all booked, balance sheet accounts reconciled, and month-end tasks completed).

This was particularly difficult in organizations where the work was being performed by different teams and in some cases, in different locations.

Many of the companies I worked with were experiencing significant changes, including mergers and acquisitions, expansion into new countries, or rapid growth, which only further exacerbated these challenges.

After quickly realizing just how to complex how accounting work can be, I knew that if I wanted to advance in my own career, I had to figure out ways to become more efficient and effective.

Ultimately, I found myself in a position where I had to find alternative solutions. I knew I had to expand my knowledge base and provide more strategic insight in addition to better managing the close process.

To remain competitive and be in demand in some of the top positions in the field I enrolled in this practical accounting course that built my skills and technical ability.

Find out more about how I improved myself as an accountant.

1. Improve your networking skills

Networking is a big part of advancing your career in accounting. It’s not what you know, it’s who you know.

When I was thinking about how to move up in accounting, an extensive network of contacts helped massively!

Making contacts as early on as possible means that you have multiple people to turn to for advice, ideas, or guidance on business-related issues.

It also means that you are likely to be at an advantage when you want to move firms as there are many hidden positions you may be the first to hear about.

2. Keep up with new technological developments

It is important to remain updated on new tech developments that are relevant to accounting. The skills that fall into this category could include enhancing your expertise in the use of excel and gaining familiarity with accounting systems like SAP, Microsoft Dynamics, and Oracle.

Finally, you can learn how to use business intelligence tools like Cognos and Crystal Reports.

3. Diversify Your Experience

For you to succeed in your career, it is important to have a wide range of knowledge and experience in other roles related to accounting.

Request your manager to allow you to work with accounting managers or change your responsibilities after 2-3 years as this will prepare you for more advanced roles and move up the corporate ladder.

4. Find a mentor

Having someone who you can turn to when your job is at a critical juncture can provide tremendous benefits, it doesn’t just have to be one person though.

You could have a couple of people who are older and more experienced than you who have different strengths.

Perhaps you need a mentor to help you with technical matters but another to offer advice and guidance on your career progression.

Final Thoughts

Creating your future in the accounting field is an exciting thought. If you already know the direction you’re heading, it can be a lot easier for you to take steps toward your next role. To advance in accounting Enroll in this Practical Accounting Course to learn, develop, and grow in 2022.