You’re an accounting student with no team experience. How can you develop this skill?

1 Join a student organization

One of the easiest ways to gain team experience is to join a student organization related to accounting or business. You can participate in events, projects, competitions, or workshops that will expose you to different aspects of accounting and teamwork. You can also network with other students, faculty, alumni, or professionals who can offer you advice, feedback, or mentorship. Look for organizations that align with your interests, goals, or values, and commit to being an active and responsible member.

2 Seek out group assignments

Another way to develop your team skills is to seek out group assignments or projects in your courses. You can either choose courses that require or encourage group work, or ask your instructors if you can collaborate with other students on certain tasks. Group assignments can help you learn how to communicate, delegate, coordinate, and resolve conflicts with your peers. You can also benefit from the diverse perspectives, skills, and knowledge of your teammates. Try to choose group members who are reliable, motivated, and compatible with you.

3 Volunteer for a cause

A third way to enhance your team experience is to volunteer for a cause that you care about. You can find opportunities to use your accounting skills to support a nonprofit organization, a community group, or a social initiative. You can also volunteer for other roles that require teamwork, such as fundraising, event planning, or outreach. Volunteering can help you develop your leadership, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills, as well as your sense of social responsibility. You can also add value to your resume and portfolio by showcasing your achievements and impact.

4 Find a peer mentor

A fourth way to improve your team skills is to find a peer mentor who can guide you and support you in your academic and professional journey. A peer mentor is someone who has more experience or expertise than you in accounting or a related field. You can connect with a peer mentor through your school, your student organization, or your personal network. A peer mentor can help you with your coursework, projects, or career goals, as well as provide you with feedback, advice, or encouragement. You can also learn from their team experiences and best practices.

5 Take online courses

A fifth way to boost your team skills is to take online courses that focus on teamwork or collaboration. You can find various online platforms that offer courses on topics such as team building, team management, team communication, or team dynamics. You can also look for courses that include group activities, discussions, or projects that allow you to interact and cooperate with other learners. Online courses can help you expand your knowledge, skills, and confidence in working with others in different settings and situations.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?