There are significant differences between big four firms and small to mid-size accounting firms. Do you know which is the best fit for you and your career? Find out what small and mid-size firms look for in new accounting grads.
- Are you teachable/coachable?
You don’t need to know it all, but you do need to be willing to learn, to listen and to try hard.
2. Willingness to share your knowledge and ideas
You know a lot too! Don’t be afraid to speak up and show us a different way to do something, especially when it comes to technology.
3. Eagerness to learn
School gives you the foundation; real life gives you the experience and some things you just need to learn hands on.
4. Good communication skills – both verbal and written
Communicate clearly and often. Don’t be afraid to ask smart questions.
5. Know when to raise your hand – don’t spin your wheels
We appreciate self-starters, but don’t spend too much time problem solving when the answer can be solved with a simple question.
6. Have an interest in and a plan for taking the CPA exam and receiving your license
When working at a public accounting firm, obtaining you license is a necessity. Put a plan in place that allows you to properly prepare and pass the exam in a timely manner.
7. Organized
This may sound cliché but people will approach you throughout the day with requests. Create a system that allows you to keep things separate and organized, and allows you to get back to what you were doing without skipping a beat. This also ensures you don’t miss deadlines!
8. Be a time-keeper
At Corrigan Krause, we track our time by client project, so you need to document what you’ve done accurately and precisely. This may be different than anything you’ve probably ever had to do. Adapt to this quickly to be successful and later it will become habit.