Experience, Skills, and Personality Traits
Completion of at least one internship in college is highly recommended to prepare for entry-level accounting positions. Specialized positions require 1 to 10 years of additional accounting experience. For example, management accountants need one to two years of accounting experience, and tax accountants need two to five years of general taxation experience. Aspiring financial officers need to obtain up to 10 years of experience in lower-level management positions of increasing responsibility.
To be a successful accountant you will need strong mathematical, analytical, and problem-solving skills. You need to be able to think logically and to interpret facts and figures accurately. Effective oral and written communication skills are essential in working with both clients and management. Since computers are vital to the accounting industry, accountants need to become experts in the use of accounting software and databases.
Other important skills are attentiveness to detail, patience, and industriousness. Business acumen and the ability to generate clientele are crucial to service-oriented businesses, as are honesty, dedication, and a respect for the work of others.
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