Accountant Career Guide

When it comes to financial matters, accountants are the experts. Accountants work for a variety of clients, including businesses and individuals, providing financial services. They may specialize in a particular industry or a field of accounting.

In general, accountants manage financial records and make recommendations to their clients. In a business environment, these professionals focus on efficient operations of financial matters. Common tasks include managing books, preparing taxes, and maintaining financial documentation. Accountants are expected to comply with laws and regulations regarding taxes and financial practices

An accountant?s main focus is looking for opportunities to reduce costs and improve revenues. Public accountants work for individuals or businesses and sometimes take on multiple clients. Management accountants work for one corporation and manage internal finances. Government accountants work for governmental agencies.

You need an associate?s or bachelor?s degree in accounting to enter this field. Students can gain experience through part-time internships with businesses. If your job includes filing reports with the SEC, you must be a Certified Public Accountant. Many employers will pay the fee associated with taking this certification exam. Accuracy and organization are essential traits for this career. In addition to having math and analytical skills, accountants need to be detail oriented and possess good communication skills.

Find out what it takes to become a successful accountant by reading our real-world career profiles below. Through one-on-one interviews with actual accountants, we give you an insider?s perspective on educational and career paths, salaries, and more.