A Roadmap to a Successful Accounting Career
11:00 p.m. Wednesday
Accounting might not be flashy, but it’s absolutely essential—it’s how businesses keep score, stay honest, and figure out if they’re growing or just spinning their wheels. Whether tracking expenses for a small startup or managing finances for a global giant, accounting is the backbone of smart decision-making.
Moving up in an accounting career is not just about promotions or titles. Progress means growing your skills, taking on more meaningful work, and having a bigger say in shaping financial strategy. Early on, it's all about learning the ropes—things like budgeting, bookkeeping, and tax basics. As you gain experience, leadership, problem-solving, and industry know-how become your secret weapons. And later in your career, it’s more about mentoring others, bringing vision to the table, and staying sharp as the financial world keeps evolving.
No matter where you are on the path, there’s always room to grow—and the tools to get there just keep getting better. Below is an outline to help you gauge where you are in the career development process and where you might want to head next.
Stage 1: Student (Aspiring Accountant)
Skills to Develop
- Accounting principles (GAAP, IFRS) and terminology. Here is a handy guide.
- Analytical thinking and problem-solving
- Proficiency in Excel and accounting software
- Attention to detail and numerical accuracy
How to Attain These Skills
- Enroll in accounting courses and degree programs
- Utilize online learning platforms (Coursera, Udemy, LinkedIn Learning)
- Practice using accounting software (QuickBooks, SAP)
- Join student organizations and attend networking events like the KSCPA INSPIRE Business Camp
Experiences to Gain
- Internships, part-time roles in bookkeeping
- Learning financial modeling and tax basics
- Participation in accounting competitions
Stage 2: Entry-Level Accountant (0-3 Years)
Skills to Develop
- Financial statements and reporting
- Basic tax knowledge and compliance
- Communication and teamwork
- Time management and organization
How to Attain These Skills
- Gain hands-on experience in bookkeeping, auditing, or tax preparation
- Start CPA or CMA exam preparation. Utilize KSCPA CPA Career Path resources.
- Take business writing and public speaking courses or join an organization like Toastmasters.
- Seek mentorship from senior accountants
Experiences to Gain
- Working in accounts payable/receivable
- Exposure to industry-specific accounting practices
- Developing proficiency in financial analysis
Stage 3: CPA or Mid-Level Accountant (3-7 Years)
Skills to Develop
- Advanced financial analysis and budgeting
- Leadership and project management. KSCPA's Lead to the Future (L2F) is a great place to start!
- Regulatory standards and risk management
- Decision-making and problem-solving
How to Attain These Skills
- Learn financial modeling and advanced reporting
- Attend industry conferences and training programs. Check out the KSCPA Learning Hub.
- Take management training courses
- Network with industry professionals and mentors. Connect with peers at a KSCPA Chapter meeting.
Experiences to Gain
- Managing financial reporting and audits
- Leading small teams or projects
- Expanding expertise in specialized areas (forensic accounting, cost accounting)
Stage 4: Senior Accountant / Manager (7-15 Years)
Skills to Develop
- Strategic financial planning and advisory
- Expertise in tax strategy and compliance
- Negotiation and stakeholder management
- Knowledge of accounting automation and AI
How to Attain These Skills
- Lead financial projects and audits
- Enhance negotiation skills through leadership courses
- Stay updated on financial technologies and automation trends
- Mentor junior accountants and build leadership experience. Join a KSCPA Task Force or Committee.
Experiences to Gain
- Leading financial departments or teams
- Advising on mergers, acquisitions, and investments
- Developing company-wide financial policies
Stage 5: Executive-Level (CFO, Partner, Director)
Skills to Develop
- Visionary leadership and financial strategy
- Risk assessment and crisis management
- Business acumen and high-level decision-making
- Advanced communication and negotiation skills
How to Attain These Skills
- Take executive leadership programs
- Master risk management and financial forecasting techniques
- Build a strong professional network with investors and business leaders
- Drive financial innovation and technology adoption
Experiences to Gain
- Managing corporate financial growth and strategy
- Leading organizational change and innovation
- Representing the company in financial and regulatory matters. Become an advocate for the profession.
Stage 6: Retired, Semi-Retired or In-Transition
Skills to Benefit the Profession
- Public Speaking
- Community Involvement
- Mentoring
- Advocacy
How to Apply These Skills
- Share your knowledge
- Represent the accounting profession
- Inspire students and young professionals
- Use the knowledge acquired from a career in accounting.
Experiences to Gain
- Speak to peers at a KSCPA conference or at a school to inspire students
- Volunteer at a KSCPA, university, secondary or elementary school event
- Mentor at KSCPA, universities, Big Brothers Big Sisters and other community programs
- Influence legislation, policy and other advocacy efforts to benefit and protect the profession
- Become a KSCPA Micro-Volunteer
Whether you're just dipping your toes into debits and credits or a seasoned CFO mentoring the next generation, an accounting career is all about growth—of knowledge, responsibility, and influence. Each stage, from student to retiree, brings new skills to master: precision and fundamentals at the start, then leadership, strategy, and innovation as you rise through the ranks.
But the journey doesn’t stop once you land the big title or step away from the 9-to-5. Staying sharp through certifications like the CPA or CMA, expanding your circle at industry events, and diving into training programs—like those offered by KSCPA, LinkedIn Learning, or executive education seminars—keep you not just relevant, but thriving.
Keep learning, leading, and showing up for the profession and the people who make it great. The accounting world is always evolving—and you're an essential part of where it's headed.
|
|
Liz Gaume
Director of Membership, Marketing and Student Services
Kansas Society of CPAs
|
The Ignite blog is an official publication of the Kansas Society of CPAs, Copyright 2024.
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS & PARTNERS IN ACCOUNTING EXCELLENCE!
Would you like to showcase your business by sponsoring the Ignite blog? Click here for more information.
