If you’re a future CPA, you’re probably no stranger to exceeding expectations. Did you know that the realities of accounting also surpass what many people expect?
We hope this list of five ways that peoples’ expectations about accountants are different than reality helps you prepare for an exciting career in accounting.
All Accountants Do the Same Thing
Accounting is so much more than taxes and spreadsheets. In fact, contrary to popular belief, a career in accounting can be diverse and exciting!
As a CPA, you can specialize as an investment accountant, management accountant, forensic accountant, or something else entirely. The sky really is the limit when it comes to finding your niche in accounting, and it’s possible to place yourself in a specialty that aligns with your interests!
Many interesting, exciting, and important industries rely on accountants to manage the funds that enable their work. And, these different fields require their accountants to have different responsibilities!
Accounting is Boring
As accountants, we here at TopPrep know all about the stereotypes people have about people in our industry. It doesn’t help that TV and Movies often portray accountants are often portrayed as stuffy, unfriendly, and awkward. We can say for certain that those stereotypes aren’t true! In fact, many accountants are funny, charming, and interesting people – after all, having good relationships with your clients is part of the job! Still not convinced? Take it from Simu Liu, Chuck Liddell, or Mick Jagger – all of whom are trained in accounting and/or finance!
Accounting is also interesting from a technical perspective. Thanks to regular changes in professional regulations, technology, and industry demands, accountants are always learning and trying new things. That’s the opposite of boring!
Accountants Have to Love Math
The idea that all accountants are all obsessed with math is yet another stereotype used to divide accountants. We say there’s sum-thing wrong with that assumption!
While math is a part of accounting, it’s not the whole gig. In fact, many trained accountants found math difficult in high school or university. Thanks to software developments, it’s not necessary for accountants to be mathematical geniuses! Now that’s a major plus!
Accountants Only Need Bookkeeping Skills to Succeed
Ask any accountant – being a CPA takes a lot more than bookkeeping skills. Succeeding as a CPA takes problem-solving, communication, business knowledge, adaptability, time management, technological prowess, and more!
Starting your own firm requires even more unique skills. Remember: the core of accounting is meeting clients’ needs, which means that you can’t just lock yourself away with your spreadsheets!
It is a Male-Dominated Profession
While it’s true that in the past accounting was a male-dominated field, nowadays many countries have an equal number of men and women working as accountants. In fact, in Canada, women make up 50% of the accounting force! Talk about girl power!
Technology Will Make Accountants Obsolete
We can’t deny that technology is a big part of accounting. But this is real life, not the Matrix, so you can take off your leather trench coat and relax. Accounting fundamentally relies on decision making, which computers can’t do. Instead of being seen as a foe, technology should be seen as a friend that streamlines bookkeeping by picking up repetitive tasks and frees up CPAs for more interesting work. When it comes to technology, there’s Neo-thing to worry about!
It’s Hard to Advance in Accounting
People who misunderstand the dynamic nature of accounting might also think that all accountants do the same thing for their whole careers. While it is possible to settle in to a role, if that’s what you prefer, it’s also possible to find leadership opportunities as an accountant, and climb the industry ladder! This is especially true for accountants employed by big companies.
For instance, accountants at investment firms frequently advance up the ranks to fill high-paid managerial positions. Or, if working at a big company isn’t your thing, you can assume a leadership role by beginning your own firm! We promise, you’ll find your perfect place as a CPA.
To learn more about careers in accounting, hear from top experts, and more, check out our knowledge section! TopPrep regularly posts interviews, articles, and advice for future accountants and tax professionals.
