Accounting career
would involve recording business transactions, computing costs and
gains, preparing financial statements for the financial year and helping
in calculating taxes among other things.
How to Become an Accountant:
You can become an
accountant if you have a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related
field. It is an added advantage if you have a Master’s degree and a
certification or licensure. You can become a Certified Public
Accountant (CPA) by clearing the uniform exam prepared by the American
Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA).
Practical knowledge
of computers and its applications is also an asset because most
companies rely on new technology to maintain their records. You must
have an aptitude for mathematics and must be able to analyze, interpret
and compare facts and figures quickly. You must not only be good at
working with numbers but people as well. Based on the facts and figures,
you must be able to guide people in matters related to finance.
There are four major types of accountants: Public Accountants, Management Accountants, Government Accountants and Internal Accountants. In recent times, Forensic Accountants are in much demand. Their job involves investigating and interpreting bankruptcies and other complex financial issues.
List of accounting careers:
Public Accountants also known as External auditors have
to look after accounts, audits and taxes and also provide consultation
for their clients. Their clients can be government agencies or
organizations, nonprofit organizations or corporations or even
individuals. Most of the Public Accountants are also CPAs.
Management Accountants are also known by various other designations. They are sometimes called Cost Accountants, Industrial Accountants, Private Accountants or Corporate Accountants.
The work of Government Accountants is related to financial records of government agencies and public firms.
Internal Accountants are
involved in examining and evaluating a firm’s internal accounting
procedures, to ensure that all financial records are in order.
Most Accountants
have to put in a 40 hour work-week. You will be generally working out
of a typical office setting and occasionally may have a chance to work
from home.
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