6 Career Advancement Strategies for Accounting/Finance Professionals

The accounting and finance industry is an incredibly competitive landscape, so if you want to advance the next level, you’ll need exert some serious effort. Learn how to make yourself stand out as a leading candidate, so you don’t get passed up for a job you were born to do.

1. Enhance Your Credentials. Most accounting and finance jobs require a bachelor’s degree at minimum, but there’s no need to stop there. Increase your skill set and prove your passion for the field by earning your MBA, CPA or CMA. This will require a significant time and monetary investment, but according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, it will improve your job prospects.

2. Request Additional Responsibilities. Let your boss know you’re ready to take the next step in your career by asking to take on more work. As a busy manager, they’ll probably be more than happy to let you handle one of their monthly reports or take their place on a key project. Put your all into each and every task — no matter how mundane — and you’ll be granted a promotion in no time at all.

3. Be Team Player. If one of your colleagues is overwhelmed with work — especially during busy the tax season or month-end — offer to lend a helping hand. Even if it means having to put in a few late nights, your extra efforts will be duly noted by management and you’ll earn even more respect from your peers.

4. Volunteer for a Nonprofit. Gaining additional learning opportunities at work isn’t always easy, so if you’re having trouble, expand your horizons by volunteering your financial acumen to help a local nonprofit. Offer to do the organization’s taxes, balance their books, process their invoices and even lead financial workshops for other volunteers and members. You’ll enjoy the dual benefit of gaining outstanding experience to put on your resume, while doing something good for the community.

5. Find a Mentor. Ask a seasoned accounting or finance professional you admire to be your mentor. This person can use their experience to help guide your career path, including offering advice on how to handle trying situations with colleagues, salary negotiations and tips to get ahead at work. Plus, mentors are typically well connected to many industry influencers and most are happy to share their networks with their protégées.

6. Bring in New Business. If you really want to impress your employer, nothing will get you noticed faster than bringing new business into the company. Exceed expectations by constantly searching for new clients to refer to the sales team. When you make it your job to enhance the organization’s bottom line, you’ll quickly prove yourself as a valuable asset the company doesn’t want to lose.

Searching for a new accounting or finance job in the Southern California Region? Contact Marquee Staffing. Our skilled recruiters are here to connect you with temporary, temp-to-hire and direct hire opportunities at leading companies.