Career Advice: Ask Amy
Get answers to your career and employment questions from a career expert and fellow CPA,
Amy Langer. Answers will be featured on the MNCPA website.
Recent Questions
I just graduated with an accounting degree. In February, I am sitting for the financial reporting portion of the CPA exam. I am looking for other ways to make myself more attractive to employers. How do I go about it? I need to mention that I have no accounting experience in the U.S. but held an accounting position four years ago in a French-speaking country.Thank you for your advice.
Asked 1/13/2012
First of all, you are doing a lot of things correctly. Congratulations on your degree and good luck with the exam. I would include your French fluency on your resume—that can be helpful for employers. In addition to what you are doing well, my biggest suggestion is to network as much as possible. I would make sure you are on LinkedIn with an updated profile. You can use that as a tool along with your current network to meet with as many people (preferably accountants) as possible. Ask those people for tips on how to present yourself along with people whom they may know to introduce you along. If possible, get recommendations (these can also be attached in LinkedIn). Recommendations can be from professors, past employers or notable people n the business community. I wish you the best.
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I have been invited to become a partner at the firm I am at. What, if anything, do I need to update (e.g., filings with the BOA) or otherwise do? Is there a "things to consider" list?
Asked 11/3/2011
Congratulations on your promotion. I do not know if there are specific updates that you need to do. I would check with your fellow partners on the specifics. Here are some things to consider as you progress:
- Update your social media (website, LinkedIn, Twitter, etc.). Let people know!
- Create a press release and get that out to industry sites like the MNCPA and others.
- If you don't have a mentor in your firm or outside your firm, get one.
- Discuss with a mentor some personal development areas. Many times partnership comes with different expectations. As you understand those expectations, figure out where your gaps are and work on those. Examples may include taking a class on sales/marketing, leadership, etc.
- Take a hard look at your personal brand and decide if you need a refresh.
I wish you the best of luck. Regards, Amy
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I am thinking about going for the CIA certification or special designation within the CIA. I am currently a CPA but am thinking about leaving public accounting and trying out the industry waters. Can you provide any advice about seeking a CIA certification and the possibilities of a career in industry?
Asked 5/18/2011
If your path is solely internal audit, the CIA would be helpful. If you expect your path to be broader, I am not sure how beneficial it will be. Your CPA designation carries more weight and is more versatile than the CIA. That being said, any additional education or learning can never be bad.As you are looking into industry, think about your current role, the clients you like (culture, what the business does, etc…) and where you have interests. There are many different opportunities you can pursue with a CPA designation, such as an internal auditor, controller, or finance. Best of luck!
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Any advice on finding an accounting job when I have very little experience thus far?
Asked 5/18/2011
The best place to start would be to review your accounting classes and the areas you studied where you excelled. I think when you have enjoyed something, it is easier to pursue and be successful. Many people begin their accounting careers in payroll, accounts payable or accounts receivable. I would begin networking with people in the accounting profession and seek informational interviews. Good luck!
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I recently earned my CPA certificate. I have an MBA with accounting focus and a bachelors in math. I have 7 years experience in corporate accounting and am looking to transition to a position that utilizes my new credentials. I have two questions. First: Many job openings list a BA in accounting as a requirement - should this be a concern based on my above qualifications? Second: Where can I find information on what type of salary requirements I should be sending in with my resume when this is requested?
Asked 3/3/2011
Congratulations on earning your CPA certificate! 1. Not having a BA in accounting might be an initial barrier but based on what you wrote, should not prevent you from pursuing these positions. Make sure and emphasize that your MBA is in accounting as you are applying. 2.The internet provides a lot of information regarding salaries. The best bet would be to visit many different websites (company websites, job board sites, or the Robert Half salary guide.) Look at many different kinds of jobs/qualifications etc. to help you get a picture of the salary landscape. Even if they are positions that you may not be interested in, it is still good to know what is out there.I think one of the best uses of your time is to network and hold informational interviews as you can get them. Use your existing network, expand your network through LinkedIn. Ask people you know whom they might know at a particular company. Even if there is not a current “open” job, you could still request a meeting to learn more about their company/firm. Most companies are open to this and I have heard of many jobs being created out of these types of meetings.Good luck! Amy
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