What Type Of Person Thrives In Accounting, According To An Audit Associate At A Big 4 Accounting Firm
Joel, an Audit Associate at a Big 4 firm, highlights the value of diverse backgrounds and unique experiences in thriving within the accounting industry, stating that those who "can take in new approaches" and ask "why am I doing what I'm doing?" are most successful. The ability to confidently contribute unique perspectives, even as a less senior member, is vital for success, a perspective informed by Joel's own non-traditional path into the profession.
Communication, Teamwork, Diverse Backgrounds, Confidence, Problem-Solving
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Joel Bobe
Audit Associate
Big 4 Accounting Firm
The George Washington University
UNC - Chapel Hill
International Relations & Affairs, Philosophy
Finance (Banking, Fintech, Investing)
Finance
Took Out Loans
Video Highlights
1. People who thrive in this industry are good with people and can work collaboratively.
2. A diverse background is valuable and helps people approach problems from new perspectives.
3. Those who thrive have the confidence to share unique skills and experiences, even if they aren't the most senior person in the room.
Transcript
Q8: Who thrives in industry?
How would you describe people who typically thrive in this industry?
I think in addition to being good with people and able to work in a collaborative environment, folks with diverse backgrounds also thrive. I pride myself on having a roundabout way of ending up where I am now.
I wasn't an accounting major. Usually, most people I work with have four years of accounting plus one year in a master's to get the requisite 150 credits needed to pass the CPA exam and end up at an accounting firm.
You get a lot of people with very similar training and backgrounds, and then you find yourself all thinking alike. I think those that really thrive are the ones who can take new approaches.
The best way to do that is to have a diverse set of skills and a diverse background. I always think that's very valuable.
These are also the people who thrive because they can take a step back and ask, "Why am I doing what I'm doing?" They have the confidence to come into a room saying, "Okay, I might not be the most senior person here, or the person with the most experience, but there's no way that anybody else has the background that I do."
That uniqueness is so vital, and I think it's often overlooked.