Don’t Rest On Your Achievements So Far If You Want To Build A Successful Career In Accounting

It’s always great to read on social media about someone completing their professional accounting exams.

From time to time there will be the post that pops up in my feed from someone who is a prize winner.

Huge achievements, whether a prize winner or not.

Of course, while getting professionally qualified in accounting is an important milestone, it is, at the end of the day, just another stepping stone.

To use an analogy of mountain climbing, you have reached one peak and another awaits.

The important thing to remember is that you can’t rest on your achievements so far and assume that your career is all sorted.

So if you have just finished professional accounting exams or even a seasoned finance professional, what tips would I give you.

#1 Stay relevant

When I started out in my finance career over 40 years ago things were very different.

Computers in their infancy and the idea of a PC on every desk a long way off.

Fast forward to now and we take technology for granted.

It’s also changed the nature of finance and accounting.

What may have taken days can be done in minutes.

To stay relevant it’s been important to adapt, to learn new skills and gain new experiences.

Make sure that you are doing the right things to stay relevant.

#2 Embrace change

Change is never easy.

It can however be hugely beneficial.

Who would have thought prior to the COVID-19 that working from home and reduced travel time would have been the norm for many.

As you progress through your accounting career it’s important that you embrace change.

Look for the positives in the change rather than focusing on sticking with what’s familiar.

#3 Keep building your reputation

Within your organisation, within your profession and more widely on platforms like LinkedIn.

It’s a vital part of being successful in your accounting career these days.

Look to be the go to person, who others actively reach out to for help and support.

Remember that success in your accounting career is achieved longer term, so make sure that keep that at the forefront of your mind.

About the Author Duncan Brodie

Since 2006 I’ve worked with in excess of 8,000 accountants and professionals in workshops, seminars and one to one helping them land their next jobs and become better leaders, presenters and business partners. Before that I spent 25 years in accountancy climbing the career ladder from Payments Clerk to FD. I’m a CIMA Fellow, Certified Professional Coach and Team Coach Facilitator.

Don’t Rest On Your Achievements So Far If You Want To Build A Successful Career In Accounting

About the Author Duncan Brodie

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