When I started out in accounting in 1980 things were very different. Back then people tended to stay in jobs for longer. Employers tended to take care of continuing professional development. Some bigger employers actually had their own training centre where they ran courses.
Nowadays things are very different. There’s far greater consolidation going on within sectors. People are much more mobile nationally and internationally. You can have a boss who was your supporter or mentor disappear overnight as a result of restructuring.
As a result, if you want to build a successful career in accounting, you need to much more active when it comes to managing your career.
If you were to reflect on your career right now, how actively are you managing it? Are you taking 100% responsibility for it or you very passive and hoping for the best?
So what do I mean by actively managing your accounting career?
1.
Being clear about what you want from your career
If you don’t know what you want from your accounting career, the chances of being successful is greatly reduced.
This is particularly important if you are aiming to reach the more senior level roles.
2.
Doing the research to find out what it takes to achieve what you want
Those who have been on the journey you are hoping to make are a great source of insight. Sometimes it’s just a case of asking them.
3.
Taking charge of your continuing professional development
There’s never been more opportunity to develop yourself personally and professionally. Interestingly only a small percentage seem to really take charge of their continuing professional development.
If you take charge of your CPD you will stand out.
4.
Being strategic with your job move decisions
A decision to take a job is a major one for you and employers. Resist the temptation to job hop for the sake of it. Make job moves that help you move towards your longer term career aspirations.
In truth you have the potential to build a successful accounting career.
What you need to consider is whether you are ready to actively manage your accounting career?