How to Write an Accounting Resume

Some recruiters prefer chronological resumes for accountants because they highlight recent experience.

Focus your resume on the specific accounting position you're applying for. An entry-level accounting resume should focus more on education and internships, while a senior-level accounting resume should focus on years of experience and managerial accomplishments. Include all of your relevant accounting skills. Never assume a recruiter knows the skills you possess based on your education or prior positions.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

1. Open Microsoft Word, click on the "File" tab and select "New." Scroll down the list and click on "Resumes and CVs." Click on the folder titled "Job-specific Resumes." Scroll down the list and double-click on "Accountant Resume Template."

2. Type your name and contact details over the sample information.

3. State the type of position you're looking for under the section titled "Objective." Be very specific. For example, if you're a recent accounting graduate, you could say you're looking for an entry-level accounting position where you can learn and grow. If you're an experienced corporate CPA, you could say you're seeking a corporate CPA position.

4. List your accounting skills in the section titled "Summary of Qualifications." Again, be very specific. List skills such as accounting software you're proficient in, your areas of expertise, accounting career accomplishments and other items of this nature. If you're just starting your career as an accountant and don't have much experience, you could list personality traits such as having close attention to detail, being reliable, and other traits that will be appealing to accounting recruiters.

5. List your past employment in chronological order in the "Experience" section. State the position held, the company name and the dates for each position you held for at least the past 10 years. Under each employer, write a sentence or two on your job duties, along with your highlights and accomplishments in that position. If your past positions aren't in the accounting field, try to highlight job duties and accomplishments that are desirable for accountants such as keeping detailed records. If you worked as an accounting intern while in school, include that in this section.

6. List your degrees and certifications under the "Education" section. Again, make this list in chronological order. List the degree you earned, the name of the school and the dates you attended. If your GPA is 3.5 and higher, you can also list this along with any awards and dean's list honors. Also list certification credentials. An example would be if you are a certified CPA.

Tips & Warnings

• Proofread your resume thoroughly because accounting recruiters are looking for attention to detail.

References

• Century Group: The Five Constants in Writing an Accounting Resume; Ron Proul