In the modern world, Technology is rapidly evolving and impacting the accounting field. It is important for graduates to continually improve their skills and knowledge to stay competitive in the job market. When considering career options after graduation in accounting, it is important to analyze each option to determine which aligns best with your interests, strengths, and career goals.
Career in Accounting
Accounting is considered one of the competitive career choices because that usually comes with a higher salary, job security, and associated hard work. Accounting is all related to numbers. One should have maths proficiency to stay long in this sector. And some other skills are also needed to become a strong accountant, such as Tech skills in using accounting tools like MS Excel, SAP ERP, and data analytics technologies.
An accountant should have analytical skills in interpreting data and getting conclusions. Communication skills are also important that allow you to explain the projects clearly. And one of the essential skills is customer service, which helps manage customers. Time management skill is the most important one that allows one to complete tasks before deadlines. All these skills help learners to get better career options after graduation. Sources say that the demand for accountants will gradually increase by about 6% within 2031.
Degrees to Land Accounting Jobs
A good accounting or finance degree offers you multiple career opportunities in the accounting industry.
Pursuing any degree course in finance helps to get multiple career options after graduation, such as audit clerk, accounts payable specialist, and accounts receivable clerk. A master’s degree in finance allows learners to get career opportunities in a budget analyst role.
An accounting degree allows candidates to get jobs like bookkeeping or staff accounting. And a master’s in accounting allows you to get the opportunity to work as a budget analyst. An accountant can work in some departments like healthcare, sports, education, entertainment, and government.
Best Career Options after Graduation in Accounting
There are multiple accounting degree jobs available in organizations. Candidates, after graduation, should have to analyze each role and find out which will suit them.
Bank Clerk
Bank clerks generally work in banks and can be called bank tellers. Their main work is processing transactions, answering questions, and helping with administrative tasks. And they directly make deals with the customers. An average bank clerk should earn a salary of $33,280 per year. To become a bank clerk, one should complete a high school diploma. And the skills needed to become a bank clerk are, should have a professional appearance, the best customer service skills, and a high level of accounting knowledge.
Accounting Assistant
An accounting assistant plays an important role in supporting the daily operations of an accounting department. They work closely with other accounting team members to ensure that financial records are accurate and up-to-date. To become an accounting assistant, an associate degree in accounting can be helpful, but it is not always required. Relevant work experience and knowledge of bookkeeping software can be just as important. The average salary for accounting assistants is $37,440 per year. However, salaries can vary based on location, experience, and industry.
Audit Clerk
The auditor’s main work is ensuring that financial records are accurate and comply with legal and regulatory requirements. They typically work for accounting firms or as in-house auditors for companies, reviewing financial documents and records to ensure accuracy and compliance. Some auditors may also work for government agencies, such as the IRS, to ensure that individuals and companies are complying with tax laws.
A bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, business, or a related field is typically required to become an auditor. Many employers also require relevant work experience in accounting or auditing. Additionally, auditors should have strong analytical skills and a good eye for detail, as well as proficiency with bookkeeping and financial software. Integrity is also an important quality for auditors, as they are responsible for ensuring the accuracy and transparency of financial records. The average salary for auditors is $73,560 per year.
Accounts Payable Specialist
Accounts payable specialists manage an organization’s expenses by ensuring that all invoices and expenses are accurate, properly recorded, and paid on time. They are responsible for analyzing and reconciling financial statements, managing vendor relationships, and processing payments.
An associate or bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, or a related field is typically required to become an accounts payable specialist. Accounts payable specialists should have a strong understanding of accounting software, such as Zoho Books, as well as knowledge of accounts payable principles and account reconciliation. The average salary for accounts payable specialists is $41,600 per year.
Staff Accountant
Staff accountants maintain an organization’s financial records and ensure compliance with accounting principles and standards. They are responsible for maintaining accurate financial records, preparing financial reports, and assisting with budgeting and audits.
A bachelor’s degree in finance or accounting is typically required to become a staff accountant. Staff accountants should understand the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and be proficient in accounting software and financial reporting tools. The average salary for staff accountants is $54,563 per year.
Accounts Receivable Clerk
The accounts receivable clerk’s role is to manage an organization’s cash flow by ensuring that customers are billed accurately and payments are received on time. They are responsible for tracking customer accounts, preparing invoices, and following up on late or missing payments.
To become an accounts receivable clerk, a bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field is typically required. Accounts receivable clerks should have a strong understanding of bookkeeping software and be proficient in data entry and financial record-keeping. The average salary for accounts receivable clerks is $35,360 per year.
When searching for jobs, look out for the website SpotGiraffe which is a career platform specially designed for finance and accounting sector jobs. Jobseekers can search for multiple jobs based on the criteria on this website. And SpotGiraffe also offers placement assistance to candidates that can be utilized to get the best job in the finance and accounting industry.
