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Why You Should Update Your Accounting Skills

How good an accountant are you?

If your boss was hiring for your current position, do you think they would rehire you for doing a good job?

And if you are currently job searching, do you think you have the right skills to get hired in the job you are applying for?

Do you, really and truly, believe you are the best fit?

Just take a moment to think about these questions.

From experience, I have realized that so many accountants miss out on great job opportunities not because they don’t have the qualifications but because they don’t have the skills that employers are looking for.

This has made accounting one of the most saturated professions and as an accountant; you have to do more than just stick to your CPA.

It’s important that you keep updating your skills in Practical Accounting so as to be equipped on how to file taxes as well as QuickBooks usage.

Why then should you keep updating your accounting skills?

1. If you can’t seem to find a job

Do you have all the accounting qualifications like CPA and even an accounting degree but still every application you make goes unanswered.

Here is the secret; chances are, employers are looking for skills you don’t have or you already have but are not bringing them out clearly in your CV.

Have a look at these two job descriptions for entry-level accounting jobs for example:

Qualifications

  • Diploma in Business Management/Accountant or related fields
  • A CPA(K) holder
  • At least 2 years’ experience in accounting
  • Must be proficient in Microsoft Office, knowledge and experience in using Accounting Software packages such as Pastel, Sage, QuickBooks

Hotel Accountant Job Qualifications  

  • Must have a Degree in Accounting or Finance.
  • CPA –K is an added advantage
  • 2 – 3 years’ experience as an accountant in a hotel or resort
  • Proficiency in any hotel operating and accounting system; Microsoft Office Excel, Word and Outlook
  • Experience in Payroll processing

In both jobs, you may have a degree in accounting and CPA but if you don’t have experience in payroll or using the accounting software listed, you will not be shortlisted for these two jobs.

The accounting field has evolved as more and more people continue to pursue CPAs and as such the employer’s mindset has shifted. They are now looking for the factor that makes you unique.

Rather than just sit there waiting for a job, why don’t you take that opportunity to update your skills?

2. Accounting has become so saturated

A few decades ago, accounting used to be the safest career. It not only assured you of a good job after school but a good paycheck and the ability to climb the career ladder in a matter of a few years.

Fast forward to today and the high number of accounting students coupled with technological advancements that threaten to automate all accounting functions, the question remains whether accounting is still a good career choice.

As an accountant, therefore, you need to stand out from all other accountants. You can only stand out by having more to offer the employer than the other candidates.

In Conclusion,

The accounting profession may be saturated but no matter how much the world advances, the need for accountants will never cease. As saturated as it is, you can still get a grip on the job market. Get your skills updated by signing up for our Practical Accounting Skills Course happening next week. Book your slot here.