Working as a CPA Is a Smart Career Move – Here’s Why

Accounting is booming. Good accountants are always in demand. Whether you run a small accounting practice and service local businesses, or you are in a corporate career, your skills will be sought after. This is why many college graduates choose to study for their CPA license when they decidethat a career in accounting is for them.  If you’re still on the fence, here’s why going for your CPA license is a smart move.

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Do You Have the Right Skills to be an Accountant?

It should go without saying that you need to have a head for figures to be an accountant. But that’s not all. Good accountants have an eye for detail. They can spot discrepancies others might miss. You need to be focused and single-minded to work as an accountant. The higher up the chain you climb, the better your people skills need to be. Corporate accountants often have to deal with stakeholders, so it pays to have good people skills and be able to talk to anyone.

The Pay

Money isn’t everything, but it sure softens the blow when your boss asks you to work yet another weekend. The good news is that CPAs are well compensated for their time and skills.

Working as a Certified Public Accountant is a great career in terms of pay. A newly qualified CPA can expect to earn around $66k a year. This can easily rise to well over $110k a year if you work hard and have the skills needed to push for promotion.

CPAs who open their own practice can maximize their earnings by employing others, but this isn’t for everyone, as a fair degree of management is required.

The Prospects

Accounting is a growth sector. Businesses always need good accountants to show them how to save money on their taxes. CPAs with solid training and the right credentials can look forward to a bright career. Those who go on to earn a master’s in accounting have the best prospects, but even if you just stick with your CPA license, you won’t ever be out of work.

Planning Your Career Path

The first step is to obtain your CPA license. Check out the top CPA review courses via this link. Passing the CPA exams is not easy, but with the right preparation, you can do it. Next, think about what area of accounting you want to specialize in. Are you interested in tax law? If so, consider studying for a master’s in taxation. If you would rather get a good grounding in general accounting principles, look for a trainee position with one of the big accounting firms.

Spending a summer working as an intern could open your eyes to a whole new field of accounting you might enjoy. Some areas such as forensic accounting are fascinating, but they are not for everyone.

If you like the idea of working as a CPA, talk to a qualified CPA and see if you can spend a day in their office. It should give you some useful insights.