Help getting into practice.

williamdclare

Hi everyone,

I am really hopeful there will be someone out there who can help me or give me some advise.

I am desperate to get into practice but am finding it impossible to even find someone to give me an interview. I have applied for hundreds off jobs on job sites met with numerous agencies and even gone as far as putting on a suit and simply knocking on doors with my CV.

I have been working in the financial industry for over 3 years now and am determined to cross over and begin my career in practice. Although I lack experience in practice there are many skills I have already managed to enquire that I will be able to bring to a company for example I have an advanced knowledge off Excel including V Lookups, Pivot Tables, IF formulas and began manipulating Macros. I also know what it is like to work in a pressured financial environment being adaptable to cope with tight deadlines and being able to communicate professionally with people such as the financial director to the IT assistant.

It is my objective to become a fully qualified chartered accountant and excel in a practice environment becoming confident in the processing of the books and the running of day to day businesses. I am currently undertaking a self-funded AAT course with the Home Learning College which is providing me with the tutoring and exams to the end of my AAT level 3. I have already passed all my Level 2 exams first time and aim to complete level 3 by the end of 2017.

I feel I have taken every job opportunity I have been given and learnt everything I can from my current role. I now want to take my career in the right direction and fundamentally apply my skills where is right for me and best for my employer, not just learning what I can from the job but bringing my determination and enthusiasm to a company. I am quick thinking and logical and like to solve problems. I am determined and decisive but also prepared to listen and to admit my mistakes and learn from these.

I understand it is not ideal that I have no practice experience but I am old enough to know where I want to go with my career and am not willing to let anything stop my progression for this reason I am more than willing to take a pay cut for a fantastic opportunity.

I would really appreciate it if someone who has maybe gone from industry to practice could give me some tips on what they did or even someone in practice could tell me what would make me stand out.

Anything would be appreciated.

Kind Regards

William

garethtravell

Hi William,

I'm a specialist recruiter for Finance and Accountancy. I think the main thing is to realise, you're not the only person with this dilemma.

It's difficult for a recruiter to help you with this as typically we will be used to find people with very specific abilities or skills and we wouldn't usually be engaged to find someone looking to cross in to Practise.

From speaking to countless people, who like you, have attempted the move. What seems to work, is what you're doing, applying. Someone will give you the chance to interview and I'm sure your passion will get you there.

I only recruit in Southampton so can't help with actively representing you but I can help with presenting your CV, interview tips and cover letter writing. All free services.

Let me know if you'd like any help.

Many Thanks

williamdclare

Hi Gareth,

Thank you very much for taking the time to read and respond to my post.

Its extremely generous off you to offer your services and I would appreciate any help you could offer.

My email address in williamdclare@aol.co.uk if you have the time to drop me a message I would love the opportunity to have a chat.

Regards

DeniseJulie

Hi Gareth

I am having the same problem, I am AAT qualified but no practice experience

Good luck William

Kind regards