What do you do if your previous experience doesn't align with corporate accounting?

If you are thinking of switching to corporate accounting from a different field or industry, you might be wondering how to make the transition smooth and successful. Corporate accounting involves preparing and analyzing financial statements, budgets, tax returns, and audits for large organizations. It requires specific skills, knowledge, and qualifications that may differ from your previous experience. However, that does not mean you cannot pursue a career in corporate accounting. In this article, you will learn some tips and strategies to bridge the gap between your current and desired roles.

1 Assess your skills

The first step is to evaluate your existing skills and identify the areas where you need to improve or acquire new ones. You can use online tools, such as skill assessments, self-audits, or career quizzes, to get a sense of your strengths and weaknesses. You can also review job descriptions, industry standards, and certification requirements for corporate accounting positions to see what employers are looking for. Make a list of the skills you have and the skills you need, and prioritize them according to their relevance and importance.

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Kamran Aziz

ᴀᴄᴀ • ʙꜰᴘ • ᴀᴄᴘᴀ • ᴍɪᴘᴀ • ᴀꜰᴀ • ᴍᴄᴏᴍ
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If your previous experience doesn't align with corporate accounting, focus on highlighting transferable skills such as analytical abilities and attention to detail. Consider pursuing relevant education or certification, like a degree in accounting or obtaining CPA credentials. Seek entry-level opportunities in corporate accounting, network with professionals in the field, and be open to starting in junior roles to gain experience. Emphasize transferable skills on your resume and commit to continuous learning to stay current with accounting practices. By taking these steps, you can successfully transition into a career in corporate accounting, leveraging your existing skills while developing new ones specific to the field.

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Hatem Manaa (CIA ) (CMA)

Supervisor Internal Auditor (Egypt-Gulf) Multinational business Experience
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develope skills workshop ,training ,follow experts in field ,start immediate certifacte ,would have chance in audit offices ,commitment to study

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Raimi Oluwafemi

Accounting, Internal Audit & Financials
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Be realistic in your initial job search. Focus on entry-level positions like Staff Accountant, Accounts Payable/Receivable Clerk, or Bookkeeping Clerk. These roles provide on-the-job training and allow you to gain practical experience. During interviews, communicate your eagerness to learn and grow within the corporate accounting field.

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2 Fill the gaps

The next step is to fill the gaps in your skills and knowledge by taking relevant courses, training programs, or certifications. You can find various online and offline options to learn the fundamentals of corporate accounting, such as accounting principles, financial reporting, taxation, auditing, and compliance. You can also choose courses that focus on specific topics or industries that interest you or match your goals. For example, if you want to work in the health care sector, you can take a course on health care accounting. Make sure to choose reputable and accredited providers that can enhance your resume and credibility.

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3 Network and connect

Another step is to network and connect with people who work in corporate accounting or have made a similar career change. You can use platforms, such as LinkedIn, Meetup, or industry associations, to find and join relevant groups, events, or communities. You can also reach out to your existing contacts, such as former colleagues, mentors, or friends, who might have connections or insights into corporate accounting. Networking and connecting can help you learn from others' experiences, get advice and feedback, discover opportunities, and build relationships.

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Tomi Akinwale ACCA, ACA, ACTI, B.TECH, FMVA, AAT.

Tax | Financial Reporting | Deloitte | Writer
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If your previous experience doesn't align with corporate accounting and you want to excel in a career in corporate accounting, you must network and connect with like minds who can help you navigate the complexities.

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4 Showcase your value

The final step is to showcase your value and potential as a corporate accounting candidate. You can do this by updating your resume, cover letter, and portfolio to highlight your skills, achievements, and qualifications that are relevant to corporate accounting. You can also use examples, stories, or testimonials to demonstrate how you have applied your skills in different contexts or situations. You can also create a personal brand that reflects your personality, values, and goals as a corporate accountant. For example, you can create a blog, a website, or a social media profile that showcases your expertise, interests, and projects.

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5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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NAJEH DAALOUL

DIRECTEUR CENTRAL at GROUP CHATTI - IHEC Carthage Présidence
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Un préalable consiste à : 1-connaître ses compétences, ses forces et ses faiblesses SWOT. 2- Connaître les normes générales et maîtriser les principes comptables, avoir une connaissance des lois et textes juridiques en vigueur 3- formation continue et flexibilité morale et cognitive. Pour, des cas particuliers, d activités, secteurs, besoins spécifiques pour une entreprise, une formation adéquate peut solutionner tout cas particuliers. En général, un apprentissage, une veille , des lectures, des connections, des mises à jour, etc sont d une importance capitale permettant de rapprocher les attentes de toute entreprise avec les compétences acquises ou acquérir.

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What do you do if your previous experience doesn't align with corporate accounting?

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1 Assess your skills

2 Fill the gaps

3 Network and connect

4 Showcase your value

5 Here’s what else to consider

Corporate Accounting

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