Interview: What Advice Would You Give To an NQ Accountant?

Change is so rapid these days that often mapping out your career as a Newly Qualified Accountant can be difficult. Whether you are soon to be or are indeed a recent fully qualified accountant, it’s a common time to give thought to your next career move.

So, to provide you with some insight and advice, we recently spoke to an NQ Audit Assistant Manager in a Top 4 firm on life after qualifying alongside the challenges that NQ’s are currently facing.

What attracted you to a career in Accountancy and Finance?

I was attracted to a career in Accountancy because the challenges and problem solving was appealing and working with numbers was always something enjoyable. 

Why did you think you would suit a career within your chosen specialism?

I think I suit Audit because I am quite sceptical and enjoy working through a set of accounts and challenging management. As an Auditor I have a lot of power and can demand to see any piece of information which is nice! Overall, it throws up something different everyday which is fun.

What do you enjoy about your current role? 

The variety and challenge, as well as opportunities. At the moment, every day has a new problem to solve and working with a team to achieve an objective as well as building business relationships are also rewarding. I am constantly learning and a big part of my role is to be a role model for the junior members of the team. 

How has your role evolved since qualifying? 

I have moved into a senior audit in-charge role and responsible for completing the work on some of the largest clients in the region, and now moving to take on a few jobs to manage. As the year has gone on, the respect and responsibility has slowly increased.  

Are there any challenges that you think NQ’s are facing right now?

I don't think there are any. The big 4 are looking for staff at the moment, as indeed are all firms right down to the smaller offices. The main challenge is the uncertainty caused by Brexit which may mean industry take a second to re-evaluate but practice is crying out for more qualified staff. 

What advice what you give to a NQ accountant?

I think explore your opportunities and decide what experience you want with regards to your ultimate career ambition and goals. You may not want to know where to go or what to do but it's important to ask yourself whether you are paid enough (although this isn't important now), whether you enjoy the work and where you work, and finally are you still learning. An answer being negative to two of those would suggest it's time to move on. 

If you wish to find out more information, then we have produced an exclusive go-to-guide to help exam qualified and newly qualified accountants understand their options, alongside the pros and cons to certain moves. To recieve your copy, please contact: luke.alexander@adlestropconsulting.com. 

Of course, if you would prefer to discuss your career options in person, then we are always available to help. We can arrange an 'out of hours' call or an informal meeting over coffee...

Please Call: 0370 240 1010

Get in touch with our experienced consultant:

Luke Alexander

Visit our website: www.adlestropconsulting.com

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