Entry-Level Positions For Aspiring Accountants
Jared, an Accounting Operations Manager, recommends entry-level roles like part-time accounting assistant positions in AP or AR to gain "specialized experience," potentially leading to promotions into staff accounting. Internships in corporate or government settings are also highlighted as valuable for building resume experience and securing full-time positions.
Entry-Level Jobs, Career Advancement, Internships, Accounting Roles, Professional Development
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Jared Dodson
Accounting Operations Manager
Liability Insurance Provider
Missouri Southern State University
N/A
Accounting
Insurance
Finance
Honors Student, Took Out Loans, Transfer Student
Video Highlights
1. Entry-level positions like part-time accounting assistant roles are available and can lead to full-time opportunities with hard work and dedication.
2. Starting with AP or AR roles provides specialized experience and can allow cross-training into other areas for potential promotion to staff accounting positions.
3. Internships in both corporate and government sectors offer valuable experience to build resumes and increase the chance of securing a full-time staff accountant role after graduation.
Transcript
What entry-level positions in this field might an undergraduate college student consider?
I started out as a part-time accounting assistant. I didn't get paid much, but I was quickly promoted into a full-time role once something opened up. I just had to put in some hard work and prove that I was committed.
It took about six months, and then I got promoted. There are a lot of similar roles, part-time to start out in AP or AR. It kind of helps you get your foot in the door in a corporate finance setting.
You'll get very specialized experience in those fields, but you might be able to convince your manager to help cross-train you in other areas. That way, you can get promoted into a staff accounting position if you want to lead those departments.
The other area I would recommend looking into is internships. Both corporate and government are offering tons of undergrad opportunities in accounting and finance. They're always looking for cheap labor, and I think that's a great way to get some of those experience bullet points checked off on your resume. Then, hopefully, you can transfer that into a full-time role as a staff accountant somewhere else.
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