Need Advice for Starting My Career

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  scrimshaw on 20/04/2017 - 21:31

  +2

  The reason your resume is getting skimmed over and you're getting bounced at the screening process is perhaps your resume is lacking the right keywords. If you're applying to a big company they usually have computers looking scanning over resumes and giving them a score based on the type of words they're looking for, so if your resume and CV is really generic and shallow, you won't be getting that second phone interview.

  Look at some resume templates on the internet that are tailored for accounting people… try to recognize the buzzwords, technical terms and software packages that are mentioned. If they apply to you, work it into your version. Ask your old friends and professors for some help.

  The other thing is, you should definitely try to volunteer for some accounting related jobs, or if not, sit a CPA exam and gain some quals. Just because you're out of uni doesn't mean you can't continue leveling up your skills. You'll need everything you can get to gain the upper edge over your cohorts, who've also graduated from the same year from other big uni's.

  • 

    kikiki on 20/04/2017 - 23:12

    I've had resume checks from my uni, friends and CPA accountants? (the CPA careers fair resume checking session). They've all said my resume was okay and to just keep applying.

    I would definitely volunteer for accounting related jobs, but not quite sure where to obtain them. I've tried looking through Seek's volunteer page and ATO Tax Help last year. There were no positions offered. I should try cold calling firms to offer volunteer work?

    I'll definitely look into CPA. I did not start yet as I'm worried if firms prefer CA.

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  captobvious on 21/04/2017 - 00:40

  +1

  Looking at the skills shortage list. there is a shortage of taxation accountants. whether that means a tax accountant or an accountant with the understanding of tax law. Perhaps focus on improving or obtaining extra experience in this area if you want a job as an accountant. Mainstream accountants are plenty and your competition will be all the Indians and Chinese who have re qualified with Australian Masters degrees.

  NSW, QLD, VIC and NT

  2211 Accountants D April 2016 The recruitment difficulty is for experienced taxation accountants.
  2211 Accountants D April 2016 The recruitment difficulty is for accountants with specialist skills in taxation consultancy.
  2211 Accountants D March 2016 The recruitment difficulty is for accountants who have experience in specialised areas (such as taxation accounting) or the ability to undertake additional duties such as managerial functions.

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  Donaldhump on 21/04/2017 - 00:46

  where do you live? my company hires graduates in accounting

  • 

    kikiki on 21/04/2017 - 01:07

    I am from Melbourne

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  Halo375 on 21/04/2017 - 11:37

  +1

  Absolutely apply for an entry level job to get your work started - being unemployed for six months can form a bit of a stigma. You can then use that first job as a leaping off point for the next job, it will dramatically increase your chances. It's not uncommon to be jumping from job to job every year when you're starting out to reach the right company where you want to grow.

  Don't be disheartened about not getting a response from applications, that's really common. Remember that the graduate programs are hugely popular - they'd be getting hundreds if not thousands of applications. Make sure you focus on writing good cover letters that are customised to the job you're going for. Explain what you can bring to the job and why it's a job you want to do.

  Good luck.

  • 

    kikiki on 21/04/2017 - 12:52

    Thank you vinesde! Really appreciate your comment.

    Would you be interested to read my cover letter? I've written skills that I have and would want to bring and am a bit uncertain. Uni careers and others seem to skim read my cover letters without much criticism.

    • 

      Halo375 on 21/04/2017 - 14:02

      +1

      Sure, I'll message you.

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  horsome on 22/04/2017 - 01:42

  +1

  Any accounting experience is vital, even perhaps approaching​ a firm asking to do work experience for a couple of weeks may be of some benefit.

  Even if you don't get paid it will get the ball rolling and you will gain the understanding you need to get employment.

  Are there any small social organisations you can join and help out with the books? Can add to CV and will help in the long run.

  Are you too focused​ on the brand firms? With changes in technology, compliance, etc a lot of small firms are set for growth, no reason to count them out, and they will have the resources to help build your skills.

  I must add though which should apply to all graduates, getting the job is only part of the triumph, how you treat the opportunity in the first instance will shape your career for years to come.

  • 

    kikiki on 22/04/2017 - 16:10

    I've applied to boutiques and small to medium firms. If I've received interviews, some firms have picked a better candidate or found my grades weren't on par to their standards.

    I agree on your last point. Definitely should treat any opportunity positively, network with people at work and don't burn bridges.