Whether you’re looking for your first job out of college or you are considering switching careers, landing your first accounting and finance job can feel like a challenge when you have little or no experience. Here are strategies you can use to prove you’re right for that accounting and finance job, regardless of your past work history.
Focus on Internships
If you are a recent graduate and you had an accounting and finance internship in college, this counts as experience, so showcase it on your resume. Be sure to contact your former internship supervisor, as well and ask if she will be willing to serve as a reference for you in your job hunt.
If you did not have an internship in college, or if you are a career-changer who has been out of school for a while, you can always consider getting an internship now. There are lots of internships open to anyone interested in a learning experience, and some even pay or offer a stipend.
“One of the top aspects that an employer looks for in a candidate is longevity because they want to see the experience gained over the full accounting cycle of multiple quarter ends along with experience with the same employer on the year end or fiscal end. They want to see accomplishments that save the company money and improve efficiency and effectiveness,” says Sharon Tsao, Contemporary Staffing Solutions company.
Leverage Volunteer Experience
Volunteering shows that you are a caring and well-rounded individual. Fortunately, there are lots of ways to volunteer that can also help boost your accounting and finance experience. Many community organizations and small charities are run by volunteers, and this included the team that handles the finances.
Find groups with missions you believe in and ask if you can volunteer with their accounting and finance committee. It may take a few tries to find an organization that needs help, so don’t give up if your first choice doesn’t have room.
Join Professional Organizations
Look for accounting and finance groups in your local area. Join at least one that has monthly activities and affordable membership fees. Make sure to attend as many events as you can and make every effort to meet at least three new people at each gathering. This will grow your network and it will also show hiring managers that even though you aren’t working in the field yet, you are committed to being involved in the community and staying up-to-date.
Work With A Professional Recruiter
Recruiters can be a strong tool for your job search, especially recruiters that have a strong track record of working with recent grads and career changers. If you are new to the accounting and finance market and you’re trying to land your first job, contact the expert recruiters at Contemporary Staffing Solutions today. We can help you find your ideal first position and help you achieve your accounting career goals.
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Contemporary Staffing connects job seekers to hiring managers nationally in the following professions: Accounting & Finance, Call Center & Office, Human Resources, IT, Salesforce, and Sales & Marketing.