Make Sure You Understand The Job You Are Applying For

Looking for your next job in accounting or in your professional field is challenging.

One of the things I’ve noticed is that what the job title is doesn’t always fit with what you might expect to be in a role.

For example, a job that’s advertised as a Finance Business Partner which is more like a Finance Manager.

Of course there are many factors to consider.

In a smaller organisation the role might be called a Company Accountant.

First thing that might come into your mind is that it’s a really technical role.

It might be.  At the same time you are more than likely to find that there’s a big part of the job that involves working with the wider business.

You may even find that the role has responsibilities way beyond Finance.  This could include HR, Facilities and even IT.

For that reason it’s vital that you really understand the job you are applying for.

Take the time to carefully review the job advert, job description and person specification.

If the role is being handled by a recruiter, ask lots of questions.

If it’s a directly advertised role, see if there is the opportunity to have an informal chat with someone to learn about the role.

See if there’s anyone in your network online or offline who might be able to give you insights.

The benefit to you as the candidate is that you don’t waste time pursuing opportunities that are not right for you.

Equally from the hiring organisations perspective they get the right type of candidates applying for the role.

Does this take a bit more effort than simply hitting the apply now button and uploading your CV?

Definitely.  But at the end of the day it’s a win-win for you as the candidate and the hiring manager.

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.

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1 comment
20bet says 4 September 2023

Your article gave me a lot of inspiration, I hope you can explain your point of view in more detail, because I have some doubts, thank you.

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