The Do’s and Don’ts of Changing Jobs in the Accounting Field

Perhaps you began your accounting career with the idea that you would move up or quickly switch to a job more compatible with your interests and goals. Whether you’ve been in your current job for ages and need a change, or if you’re just interested in the opportunities available, accounting is a wide field that offers many options. From controller to tax manager, from senior accountant to senior analyst, from credit manager to bookkeeper, the job possibilities are endless, so there’s no reason to feel gridlocked in your accounting career. But as you consider a change in occupation, remember the following Do’s and Don’ts:

Don’t be rash simply because you’re unsatisfied with your current employer. Sometimes we want a change because the current situation is undesirable. If this is the case, take the time to consider whether it’s the employer or current work environment that’s unappealing rather than the job itself. In this case you may consider switching employers rather than switching occupations.

Don’t worry if the thought of changing careers makes you nervous. Change of any kind, especially in a career, makes most people nervous. It’s perfectly normal and shouldn’t scare you away from accomplishing what you desire. Taking it slow and creating a plan will help ward off any fear you might be experiencing.

Don’t get discouraged. It may take awhile to 1) discover what you really want, and 2) find that perfect job for you. Recognize that changing jobs will take time and require patience.

Don’t rule out staffing agencies. Sometimes you have to date a few employers and jobs before you commit to just one. There are staffing agencies that specialize in accounting and by taking a few months to test drive a few employers and occupations you’ll get a good idea of which might be best for you while getting your foot in the door.

Don’t begin applying for jobs before you’ve considered exactly what you want. Again, you don’t want to be rash. Switching from one job to the next without careful reflection will do you no good.

Do take the time to research and consider all the possibilities. Take the time to consider your interests, your objectives, and your ultimate career goals. Do the research necessary to determine which job and employer will be right for you.

Do take advantage of all your networking contacts. This is where your contact list will come in handy. Call around and talk with your contacts. This can accomplish three things: one, it will aid in your research to determine which accounting occupation could be right for you; two, it can help you discover job opportunities you may not heard about otherwise; and three, you might win an advantage on a job you’re interested in.

Do find a mentor. Once you determine the occupation for you, find a mentor who can help you move through a job search most effectively. A good mentor will provide encouragement, advice, and networking opportunities.

Do remember your transferable skills. Because you’re moving from one accounting job to another, recognize that your transferable skills are invaluable. Update your resume so that it targets your desired occupation while highlighting those transferable skills.

Do get training that will help you advance. Often you’ll have a better shot at getting a job if you’ve had advanced training. For example, enrolling in UAC’s Professional Bookkeeper Program could give you the advantage in finding just the job you want. It will bolster your resume and give you a talking point in those crucial interviews.

Whichever occupation you choose in the accounting field, the important thing is that you find the right one for you. In following this list of Do’s and Don’ts you will have a better chance of doing just that.

Learn More about the Professional Bookkeeper (PB) Program

If you would like to see how the PB Program could benefit your career, order our DVD “Introduction to the Professional Bookkeeper Program.” For less than $10 you can advance your career and open yourself to more accounting possibilities than you may have otherwise imagined. Don’t delay professional success. Order your copy now!

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