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Private Equity Accountants and Auditors

Experience, Skills, and Personality Traits

Completion of at least one internship or co-op in college is highly recommended to prepare for entry-level accounting and auditing positions. Specialized positions, such as those in private equity, require at least one year of on-the-job experience at an alternative investment firm or investment bank.

To be a successful accountant or auditor, you’ll need strong mathematical, analytical, organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills; the ability to work both independently and as a member of a team; and a willingness to work in a fast-paced and sometimes stressful environment. You also must be honest and have strong ethics. Accountants and auditors must be experts in the use of accounting software and databases and office software (e.g., PowerPoint, Excel, Word), and have knowledge of financial reporting and financial products (e.g., equities, futures).