Modeling a Successful Accounting Career

Anthony Robbins, who has become a leader in teaching others to reach their dreams, said, "Study those who have achieved that which you wish to achieve and duplicate their actions."

Locally, there are a couple of recruitment leaders who offer excellent advice on how to move from staff accountant to management. Keith Johnson, founder of the Pacioli Companies, a staffing company that specializes in accounting careers, and Susan Roberts, owner and president of Account Profile, Inc., are two seasoned recruiters.

The first thing you need to do is choose wisely when accepting your initial entry-level accounting position. Look up the corporate ladder to see what skills you can develop. "Don't paint yourself into a career corner," advises Johnson.

"If you will increase in salary without getting any supervisory experience, you are not on the road to a management position. Watch out for becoming overpriced without any supervisory skills."

In addition to choosing employment wisely, the experts gave the following advice on how to handle your new career.

Do More Than Expected

When given an assignment, finish it prior to the deadline. Meeting deadlines does not necessarily get you noticed, but not meeting them most certainly will - and not in a positive way. Ask your boss for extra assignments when you complete your work. Don't have any downtime.

How to get noticed is as easy as ABC:

A. Ask your boss for direction regarding priorities for the workflow. By involving your boss in determining your workflow priorities, the department goals are more likely to be reached. This makes your boss look good and you look good too.

B. Be an active volunteer for implementation teams. Normally the implementation teams get noticed. C. Come to work dressed for success and smile. People notice those who make a positive first impression. Smile and sell yourself as a person who is professional and pleasant.

Bring Integrity and Credibility to Work Every Day

Accounting, as a profession, has taken a severe hit following the Enron and other corporate scandals, but the vast majority of accountants follow the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).

"Be above reproach in your work. Never tell someone that you can do something that you know you cannot do. Always double-check your work. Don't allow someone else's sloppiness to become attached to your name. Take ownership of your own success. When you make a mistake, take responsibility for finding a solution, rather than an excuse," says Roberts.

Become a Lifelong Learner

A college degree is just the foundation of an accounting career. Continuing study is the hallmark of the successful accounting professional. Whether becoming a CPA or adding various certifications to your résumé, you will soon learn that knowledge is power.