
Most conventional Accountants monitor expenses and prepare, evaluate and authorize financial documents. They are basically the day-to-day bookkeepers of their clients. Accountants are also involved in auditing, analyzing budgets and assisting in the strategic planning of private businesses, government organizations and/or individuals.
Keeping up to date with new government regulations and tax laws is an important part of an Accountants role, ensuring complex financial jargon is communicated to clients to offer advice and guidance on business/personal decisions.
Detail oriented thinkers, analytical in approach, problem solvers, strong written and oral communication skills, experience with financial transactions, statistical reporting, ability to meet deadlines, knowledge of applicable Financial Accounting and Standards accounting rules, confidentiality and time management.
The minimum requirement is a bachelor’s degree. Additional certification can be obtained through professional accounting bodies such as ACA, CIMA, ACCA and AAT. (For more information click here). Among the industry, there is a perception that different qualifications are valuable for different roles, so always research the different certification levels and think about long term career prospects.
Anyone with additional qualifications in Information Systems or International Business will rate highly amongst employers, particularly Management Accountants who are part of the executive team in major corporations.
As with most professions, qualifications are advantageous, but experience is also a key consideration.