What Do People Who Work in an Accountants Office Have to Do?
Accounting offices are practice groups somewhat like law, engineering or architectural firms. Professional or certified public accountants provide expert accounting and financial advice to their clientele. This may include information and consulting relative to taxes, investments, financial reporting and management. In addition to staffing accountants at different levels and in various areas of expertise, managers, executive leaders and support staff are also needed in the operation of an accounting office.
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Entry-Level Accountants
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Depending upon the size of an accounting firm, new or junior accountants may be generalists working in various departments, or specialists assigned to a particular area of accountancy like auditing, tax or forensics. Junior accountants work under the direction of a senior accountant or mid-level manager. In your early years as an accountant you may work on less complex projects like payroll, journal entries, account reconciliations and individual or small business tax returns. Most accounting offices require a minimum of a four-year degree in accounting for employment in this field.
Certified Public Accountants
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Advancement within an accounting office requires that one obtain the certified public accountant designation. In addition to passing a nationally standardized exam, you must also meet the minimal requirements set by your state's Board of Accountancy. Once certified, you may be promoted to a senior-level position. As a senior accountant, you will oversee and supervise departmental projects and assignments such as audits, corporate tax returns, financial budgets and consultations. You will also answer client's concerns or questions while nurturing and strengthening the client-accountant relationship.
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Managers
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Accountants with solid work experience and strong leadership skills may be moved into a managerial role. As an accounting manager, you will oversee the work of your department and team of accountants. In addition to supervising the work of your staff, you may also hire and train new employees, conduct scheduled performance reviews, locate new clients, and build client relationships.
Partners
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Executive or senior-level managers within an accounting office are referred to as partners if they have an ownership stake in the company or firm. At this level, you will work side by side with other partners to ensure the financial growth and prosperity of the firm. In addition to managing the assets of the firm, you will also seek out clients and develop new product and service lines to increase revenue.
Support Staff
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As within any business office, support personnel play a key role in building and maintaining a successful accounting firm. Some support jobs within accounting offices include receptionists, word processors, administrative assistants, human resource managers and technology experts.
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References
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