How to Become an Accountant

In this blog, you will learn: 

• What an Accountant is
• How to become an accountant
• The different accountancy qualifications available
• How to choose the right accountancy job for you
• Where the latest accounting jobs are how to apply for them

What is an Accountant?

An Accountant specialises in recording, analysing, and reporting financial transactions and information. Accountants play a crucial role in the financial management of organisations, ensuring the accuracy, integrity, and compliance of financial records.

Their primary goal is to ensure accurate financial records, compliance with applicable laws and regulations, and provide valuable insights for decision-making. Accountants play a crucial role in financial reporting, tax planning, budgeting, auditing, and providing financial advice.

How to become an accountant

To become an Accountant, there are several different accountancy qualifications that candidates can gain, including: 

• AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) 
• ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants)
• AIA (The Association of International Accountants) 
• ICAEW (Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales) 
• CIMA (Chartered Institute of Management Accountants)
• Typically it will take 3 to 4 years to become a fully qualified Accountant, though there are job opportunities available in the field before you are fully qualified. 

How to choose the right accountancy job for you

Different accountancy jobs will require different skills and abilities. Knowing which path you want to follow will help you focus your efforts and make you more attractive to any potential employers. There are a number of things to consider. 

• Which area? Are you looking for a management or financial accountancy role? These are the two main areas of accounting but require different qualifications, experience and ability.
•  Which sector? Are you looking for a job in the public or private sector?
• Which industry? Every business needs accountants, knowing which industry you would like to be a part of will help you focus your CV appropriately. 
• Which role?  There’s a wide range of roles to research including Accountants, Audit Seniors, Bookkeepers, Chief Financial Officers and more. 

Gain experience

There are many ways candidates can build skills and experience before applying for their first accountancy job.

It’s possible to get a full-time position while studying for a degree, which could prove essential in garnering the necessary experience in a firm. It will help applicants define chosen specialisms at the same time, learning the different options available to them.  

If a candidate is not studying at university, then accounting apprenticeships are a fantastic way to get some experience and earn a wage at the same time. An apprentice can  gain a qualification upon completion, along with some significant work experience.

Volunteering is a great way to show dedication to the profession and get some skills and experience under the belt at the same time. Volunteering to do the accounts or bookkeeping of nonprofits or charities are also good options. 

Things to think about before becoming an Accountant

Before embarking on the journey to become an Accountant, there are several factors to consider including

• Interest and aptitude
• Education and qualifications
• Career path and specialisation 
• Job market and opportunities
• Work environment and lifestyle

Interest and aptitude

Reflect on your interest in accounting and your aptitude for numbers, analytical thinking, attention to detail, and problem-solving. Accounting involves working with financial data and complex concepts, so it's important to have a genuine interest in the field and the skills required.

Education and qualifications

Research the educational requirements for becoming an Accountant in your country or region. Typically, a bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field is necessary. Consider the time and financial investment required for obtaining the required education and any additional certifications or qualifications that may be beneficial for your career goals.

Career path and specialisation

Explore the various career paths within accounting and consider which areas interest you the most. Specialisations can include auditing, tax accounting, management accounting and financial analysis, along with many other jobs that you can get with an accounting degree. Understanding the different paths can help you choose the direction that aligns with your long-term career goals.

Job market and opportunities

Assess the job market for Accountants in your area or the location where you plan to work. Research the demand for Accountants, potential growth opportunities, and the salary ranges in the field. This can help you gauge the viability and potential prospects of a career in accounting.

Work environment and lifestyle

Consider the typical work environment and lifestyle associated with an accounting career. Accountants often work in office settings, either as part of a team or independently, and may have seasonal peaks in workload during tax season. If you're an accountant juggling a busy tax season, check out our 7 tips for thriving during the busiest time of year. 

Searching for an accounting job?

If you’re searching for a new accounting job, why not take a look at the latest opportunities? Alternatively, upload your CV and one of our experienced consultants will contact you when a relevant opportunity becomes available. 

Struggling to write your CV? Check out our six powerful tips on how to write an accounting CV. 

If you’re struggling to fill a role, why don’t you give us a call on 01772 954200 to see how we can help? One of our consultants will be happy to listen to the challenges which you are facing and advise on the best possible solution for you.