Breaking Into the Accounting World: Expert Advice to Land Your Next Role

If you missed our recent interviews, here's a quick recap of the most valuable insights shared by accounting experts Joe Arrigo , Chelsea O'Shields, CPA , Melissa Sherbakoff, CPA , and Nicholas Sneller, CPA . Whether you're just starting out or aiming to advance in the field, these takeaways will help you stand out and succeed.

1. Be Vocal About Your Career Goals and Ambitions

Joe Arrigo and Chelsea O'Shields, CPA from HHM CPAs stress the importance of ambition in career growth. Candidates should be upfront about their long-term goals, whether it’s making partner or taking on leadership roles. Expressing these ambitions early helps leadership guide you toward the right opportunities.

They also advise being specific about your experience during interviews. Discuss your technical expertise in detail and make sure to ask thoughtful questions about company culture and leadership. Knowing what a firm values and how they support employees during busy seasons can help you find the right fit.

2. Stand Out in Interviews by Quantifying Your Experience

Melissa Sherbakoff, CPA , an executive recruiter with a background in accounting, emphasizes the power of quantifying your achievements in interviews and on your resume. For instance, saying “I oversaw accounting for $1 billion in debt” provides a clear picture of your impact and helps you stand out from other candidates.

She also highlights the importance of showing genuine enthusiasm for the role and staying informed about industry trends. Employers value candidates who are engaged and passionate about their work, so don’t hold back when it comes to demonstrating your interest.

3. Start with a Strong Foundation: Public Accounting Is Key

Nicholas Sneller, CPA , a financial analyst who began his career in public accounting, strongly recommends starting in this field. He describes public accounting as a crash course in business operations, where you quickly develop a broad range of skills and gain exposure to multiple industries.

Nick advises new grads to plan ahead for their CPA and focus on building relationships with mentors and peers. While the demands of public accounting can be intense, it lays the groundwork for a successful career and opens doors to numerous opportunities.

See you next week!

Armed with these expert insights, you're now ready to navigate the accounting profession with confidence. Whether it's clearly communicating your career goals, excelling in interviews, or building a solid foundation, each step brings you closer to your ideal role. We start our new series next week, so stay tuned!!