Anyone else finding it hard to get a job in accounts

System
System Posts: 100,534 🤖 Admin 🤖
edited June 18 in AAT student discussion
I just cant seem to get a job in accounts, not working on the industry at moment because i am studying aat for a career change and every job i apply for says they want people with accounts background. Anybody know of anyone with any positions in manchester? I have registered with most recruitment places. Hopefully i will be given a break

Comments

  • System
    System Posts: 100,534 🤖 Admin 🤖
    Re:Anyone else finding it hard to get a job in accounts

    Hey don't put yourself down! You'll be surprised about what people think. If you have had good background in double-entry bookkeeping and have good working experience you don't necessarily need to have working experience in accounts. Look for a job which is willing to train you. In interviews state even though you haven't worked in accounts you have good life skills and other experiences in the jobs you are in at the moment and that you are willing to change and have a good crack at it. Put your best assets forward. Don't be negative! Good preparation will get you everywhere!.

    I started at a very basic salary for finance clerk-now I've got an interview for accountant job.

    Good luck.
  • System
    System Posts: 100,534 🤖 Admin 🤖
    Re:Anyone else finding it hard to get a job in accounts

    Hi
    Have you tried sending your cv out to practices and companies in your area.

    Don't give up, I was in the same boat when I changed career 4 years ago. I found if employers were willing to see you didn't mind starting from the bottom they were willing to give you a go.

    I now work for myself and do some subcontract work for a practice. So it is posssible to get somewhere.

    Good Luck
    Michelle
  • System
    System Posts: 100,534 🤖 Admin 🤖
    Re:Anyone else finding it hard to get a job in accounts

    Hi Emma

    I changed careers 6 years ago from being a hairdresser to working in Admin, quite a change!! I was also very looky and managed to get offered the first job i applied for but actually held out as i had an interview for the second job and really wanted that one which paid off. Basically i was given a chance and now 6 years on i am working for the same company having been promoted through administration and now working in accounts.

    Basically the point of my post is that it is all down to the CV and interview presentation. Your CV probably doesn't have appear to have many obvious strengths re an accounting position therefore try re planning it and rather than listing previous employment and irrelevant tasks try customizing it and pulling on relevent strengths, like examples of possibly working to deadlines, working with confidential information etc, the context may be a totally different setting but the skills are the same. I'm not by any means suggesting you fabricate but just point out key things. Maybe alter the order of the CV so that personal strengths appears above either qualifications - if they are limited in this area, or employment.

    You could also try doing some short 10 week college courses in say SAGE or computers (RSA or CLAIT) they are easy to complete, don't usually cost much but add to the weight of the CV. I did both of the above as my qualifications were all Hairdressing and Beauty therapy and it seemed to work for me.

    If you want any help, e-mail me your CV and i will have a look (e.l.clark@talk21.com or e.l.clark@hotmail.co.uk) I can't make any promises but it worked for me.

    Good look
    Emma
  • System
    System Posts: 100,534 🤖 Admin 🤖
    Re:Anyone else finding it hard to get a job in accounts

    Hi

    There is an article in the latest AAT magazine about work experience. It goes through all the problems you are talking about. It also says that offering your services as a volunteer maybe a good way of gaining experience if you are finding gettting jobs hard (perhaps charities are a good way in). I too started off in more of an admin role (with basic sage work), and are now doing more and more accounts but it does take time and determination. If your studying AAT it is an excellent basis. You may find even a little vol. work would go a long way. The article might put your mind at ease a little as you don't seem alone.

    Good luck,

    Torix
  • System
    System Posts: 100,534 🤖 Admin 🤖
    Re:Anyone else finding it hard to get a job in accounts

    No offence Emma but you really need to learn how to spell LUCKY....... (its not looky !!)
  • System
    System Posts: 100,534 🤖 Admin 🤖
    Re:Anyone else finding it hard to get a job in accounts

    Sorry, i hadn't proof read the post before sending it, i was just trying to offer constructive advice.
  • System
    System Posts: 100,534 🤖 Admin 🤖
    Re:Anyone else finding it hard to get a job in accounts

    Hi emma,

    A tip when you apply for a job, look at the job description and all the points that are a requirement, then write a personal statement including all your good points, make sure you cover every single point that is on the Job Specification because thats what employers do to shortlist people for interviews.

    The only point you may not be able to cover is the minimum experience required, but if you have all the others then 'your in there'!! Keep applying and don't give up, make sure you are confident in the interview and you'll be a 'top' accountant one day!

    Good luck

    Nicky-don't be so negative about peoples spelling, it was obvious what Emma was saying, and some good points she made too.
  • System
    System Posts: 100,534 🤖 Admin 🤖
    Re:Anyone else finding it hard to get a job in accounts

    come on buddy theres no need to be picky about her spelling !! it was pretty clear what she ment !

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