In the textbook, they discussion a forensic accounting needing good
critical thinking, reasoning or problem-solving skills, and good
communication (Rufus et al, 2015). In the additional reading they
discuss being analytical, detail oriented and ethical as traits for a
forensic accountant stated by attorneys (Davis et al, n.d.). Academics
also feel analytical and ethical are important but also rated highly are
skepticism, persistent and inquisitive as essential traits (Davis et al,
n.d.). CPA's feel that analytical is important but put inquisitive higher
than detail oriented and ethical (Davis et al, n.d.). From my short time
working in accounting, I think all of these and so many more would be
important for the forensic aspect of the job. I have always loved a
mystery or puzzle, trying to figure something out is almost calming to
me. That is one of the biggest draws for me in this line of profession. I
also feel that I am both analytical and detail oriented and that it would
assist me in this career path. When I interviewed for my current
position, staff accountant, they asked why I was continuing my
education towards forensic. My answer is the same as it has been
since I started this journey, I like to ask why. I would drive people nuts
asking for background on things in my previous career (pharmacy
technician for a cancer center and hospital). I had a healthy amount of
skepticism because I had seen pharmacists dose meds incorrectly and
I had to be detail oriented in order to mix chemotherapy correctly.
But what made me very good at my position was that I asked why are
we giving this dose? why are we giving this drug? I was able to catch
errors that the pharmacists had overlooked. I felt that these traits
would serve me well as a forensic accountant also. I also learned to be
thick skinned because not all pharmacists were okay with a lowly
technician questioning them. If it saved someone's life, I figured I
could hurt a few feelings along the way.
Davis, C., Farrell, R., & Ogilby, S. (n.d.). Characteristics and Skills of the
Forensic Accountant. AICPA. Retrieved
https://web.archive.org/web/20170328231005/https://www.aicpa.
org/InterestAreas/ForensicAndValuation/Resources/PractAidsGuida
nce/DownloadableDocuments/ForensicAccountingResearchWhitePa
per.pdf
Rufus, R., Miller, L., & Hahn, W. (2015). Forensic accounting. Upper
Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Education.
