PowerPoint presentation for a career interview/report (Accountant)

Career opportunity: Accountant

The career of an accountant involves much more than just knowledge on simple bookkeeping. For a person who holds a degree in accounting, various career paths are available. Graduates with in the field are in possession of strong skills in business communication as well as an excellent grasp of essential business ideas and concepts (Alba). Employers in many industries are attracted to the accounting majors due to the fact that they have demonstrative skills in quantitative analysis and possession of ethics that is essential in accomplishing challenging tasks.

Some accountants specialize according to the establishments in which they work. For instance, these experts may major in assurance services or risk management (Ross and Carberry). Others may specialize in particular industries such as healthcare while some prefer teaching in institutions of higher learning.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the accounting majors are among the most employable professionals and that approximately 1,335,700 accountants are currently in employment (Bureau of Labor Statistics). The bureau suggests that the career is a wise choice because the field of accounting is experiencing a rapid and consistent growth and development. It is projected that the demand for accountants will increase by roughly 167,000, which is more than 10 percent growth within the next one decade. This growth is faster than the average progress in any other occupation.

Generally speaking, the rate at which accountants will be employed will depend on the overall growth of the economy. It is assumed that as the economy improves, more and more accountants will be needed for the purpose of preparing and examining financial records. Furthermore, as many firms go public, there will be an increased demand for public accountants to handle financial documentation as the law requires (Bureau of Labor Statistics). In addition, globalization and the improving of the country’s economy lead to a progressively intricate taxation and regulatory systems which will in turn lead to a robust demand for accountants.

Accounting experts are among the best paid professionals in the country. Currently, an accountant earns $ 32.30 per hour, translating to an annual salary of $67,190. As the financial industry improves, the payment for an accountant is also expected to grow. Majority of the people in this career work full time. In 2015, about 20 percent worked for more than 8 hours a day, five days a week. Many are entitled to overtime payments, which are characteristic at given times for instance tax seasons or at the end of the year.

Typically, accountants are responsible for the preparation and examination of financial statements to make sure that they are in line with regulatory requirements. They also calculate levies payable, preparation of tax returns, and making sure that taxes are paid timely and properly. These financial experts are also responsible for the inspection of accounting systems for efficiency and the use of accepted accounting processes (Alba). They are responsible for organizing and maintaining financial records, assessing and making recommendations about the best accounting practices to the management. Suggesting ways to decrease costs, increase revenues and enhance profits is another important role of an accountant. In addition to scrutinizing and preparing financial documents, bookkeepers and auditors are also required to give an explanation of their findings. They do this by making written reports and meeting with clients and managers to give explanations and recommendations.

Most employers require that accounts candidates have not less than a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a degree in any related area. Certifications such as certified public accountants (CPAs), association of certified chattered accountants (ACCAs) and many more are also a requirement and increase the prospects of getting a job as an accountant. Other employers require candidates for the accountant’s position to possess either a master’s degree in accounting or finance, or a master’s in business administration with a major in accounting.

I think the most important traits of a good accountant is honesty and integrity : this trait will help me to succeed as an accountant. As a bookkeeper, I will be responsible of managing and overseeing financial records. Further, the virtue of integrity will responsibly handle the petty cash of a company. The trait will also enable me prepare the books of a company according to the standard accounting standards to protect the company from fraud. My leadership skills will also come in handy as I will not find it hard to lead teams and oversee projects as may be required from time to time. Consequently, my excellent communication skills and the ability to resolve conflicts will be very important. My skill to write persuasive letters and reports as well as public speaking skills is a great asset. I also have the capability to pay attention to details, a quality that is required for accountants as they deal with lots of formulas and figures.

Works Cited

Alba, Jason. Vault Career Guide to Accounting. Vault Inc., 2005, 2005.

Bureau of Labor Statistics. Occupational Outlook Handbook. U.S. Department of Labor, 2015.

Ross, Stan and James Carberry. The Inside Track to Careers in Accounting. AICPA, 2010, 2010.