So, you’re finally a Chartered Accountant!
13 Oct 2017
Tracy Nolan
So, the day has arrived, you are now an ACA Chartered Accountant!!! It is an immense achievement! Proud pictures of ‘your dapper self’! Diploma in hand, trailed with bad dad jokes of ‘Be Audit You Can Be’. Your mother shedding a happy tear or two. After all why wouldn’t she, she has witnessed a mere 6- 8 years of hard work, late nights and lots of coffee!! The words ‘social life’ and ‘late nights’ will now all have new meanings to you. So where to now?
The good news is that the market is buoyant offering a broad spectrum of roles within Industry, Practice and Financial Services. Nevertheless, it is a competitive market and you will need to utilize all tools available to you. It is certainly important to know what separates you from the crowd. Know your CV inside out, perfect your interview techniques and be knowledgeable of your chosen sector. Take time and care with your LinkedIn profile, paying careful attention to the finishing touches.
When it comes to interview preparation, start with the basics. Never under estimate the value of a confident smile and firm handshake at an interview. Dress to impress! Do you need a new suit for interview (has that bright white shirt maintained its radiant colour or is it time for a new investment?). As a rule of thumb, if in doubt, don’t wear it.
The market demand continues to surge steadily for accountants with many firms paying increased attention to attracting and retaining new & remarkable talent. The market has also witnessed increased prospects within the SME sector. Opportunities for Big 4, Top 10 and commercial candidates have stayed strong in MNC’s and PLCs alike. IT, FMCG and pharma corporations have maintained their positions in the leader boards as some of the most desirable career paths.
Contract roles can also be a great means of exploring new opportunities, providing the chance for you to upskill before moving into a permanent role.
As a newly qualified accountant, you should be aware that we have continued to see a steady demand for valuable skills within financial analysis, audit, internal audit, financial reporting, management accounting, group consolidation, taxation and controls.
Remember our services are free to all of our candidates, we would be delighted to speak with you to discuss what opportunities are open to you. Why not ask all the questions you need to, to ensure you put your best foot forward.
Tracy Nolan works in Brightwaters I & C division. For further information and a confidential discussion about your career please contact our Brightwater team below on 01 662 1000 or email: [email protected]