Accounting is a highly sought-after career that can see a person earning a lucrative wage. For this reason, many consider whether they have what it takes to become one, especially if they’ve always had a flair for numbers.
Being a successful accountant takes a fair amount of work and certain sought-after traits. It’s not as simple as learning the trade and hoping for clients to come streaming in; you must make sure you are as desirable as possible, especially with the amount of competition out there. If you are considering a career in accounting, or you want to further your current accounting career, then here are five traits you’ll need to succeed.
1. A Great Communicator
Simplifying it, accountants work in two ways – for a number of clients or one business. Whichever one you choose, you will need to be a great communicator. If you plan on working with several clients, then you must be able to seek them out and convince them you are right for the job. You will also need to explain your process simply to those you work with, which takes a little more skill than most would think.
2. Attention to Detail
Successful accountants are analytical and don’t let any mistakes slide. When working with financial records, consistent accuracy is crucial. This means that to be a successful accountant, you must have a keen eye for detail and notice mistakes quickly, even when you’re spending hours looking at spreadsheets.
3. Educated
Accountants don’t need a formal higher education (although it can help), so you needn’t rush to apply for bachelor’s degrees. Employees look for work experience, but a form of financial education is also desirable. Obtaining a Certificate in Financial Management shows potential clients and employees that you are serious about your career and that you have already learned the skills needed to be a great accountant. Seeking education is a great way to learn industry skills without entering the world of accounting with no work experience behind you.
4. Organized
Organization is crucial when it comes to accounting. If you are working with a large number of clients, you must be able to juggle them well and fit everyone in. You don’t want to run the risk of upsetting clients! Time management, tons of paperwork, and the need to prioritize certain tasks are part of everyday life as an accountant. It’s recommended that you keep both a monthly, weekly, and daily schedule to keep on top of everything.
5. Writing Skills
This one may be a surprise, especially when accountants work primarily with numbers, but the ability to write well is also a desirable trait. Accountants must communicate clearly over email and other written forms, and to do this, they must be able to simplify their work into a concise written format.
Successful accountants are more than just proficient with numbers. If you have your eye on a career in the finance sector, then you should first make sure you tick the boxes of desirable skills.
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