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what resources and skills do I need for this?

I want to be an accountant or look into more financial classes, skills, job shadowing, and figure out what job I would like to look into more for finance.

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Marx Neftali’s Answer

You should look for shaff accountant positions where you will learn all the basis.
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Rebecca’s Answer

Thank you for your question. I am glad to know that you have interest in accounting and finance.
Below are my suggestions:
1. There are many accounting or finance related careers, eg accountant , finance manager, auditor, financial analyst, financial planners, fund accountant, etc you can find out more online
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counselor, your parents, etc
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in colleges
Hope this helps! Good luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
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Miha’s Answer

Hi Kaitlyn,

To prepare for a career in accounting or finance, you'll need resources and skills that build foundational knowledge, hands-on experience, and an understanding of the field's diverse opportunities.

Here's a comprehensive guide:

1. Educational Resources

Accounting Fundamentals:
Enroll in courses like "Introduction to Accounting" or "Principles of Financial Accounting" through platforms like Coursera, edX, or Udemy.
Community colleges often offer affordable in-person or online classes.
Certifications: Consider starting with entry-level certifications like:
Bookkeeping Certification: Offered by organizations like AIPB or NACPB.
QuickBooks Certification: For learning accounting software.

Advanced certifications to aim for later include CPA (Certified Public Accountant), CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst), or CMA (Certified Management Accountant).

Finance Topics:
Look for classes in budgeting, financial analysis, tax preparation, or auditing.
Explore free resources like Khan Academy for finance basics.

2. Skills Development

Technical Skills: Proficiency in tools like:
Microsoft Excel (formulas, pivot tables, VLOOKUP).
Accounting software: QuickBooks, Xero, or Sage.
ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle).

Soft Skills:
Attention to detail and accuracy.
Problem-solving and critical thinking.
Communication for explaining financial concepts to non-experts.

Analytical Skills:
Learn data analysis using software like Power BI or Tableau.

3. Hands-on Experience

Job Shadowing:
Connect with accountants or financial professionals in your area and ask to observe their work.
Reach out to local businesses, financial firms, or nonprofits for shadowing opportunities.

Internships:
Look for internships in accounting departments or finance-related roles.

Volunteering:
Offer to help small businesses or nonprofits with bookkeeping or financial reporting to gain real-world experience.

4. Career Exploration

Research Job Roles: Look into specialties such as:
Tax Accounting
Auditing
Forensic Accounting
Financial Planning or Analysis
Corporate Finance

Networking:
Join professional organizations like the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) or local accounting societies.
Attend finance or accounting career fairs and webinars.

5. Resources for Continued Learning

Books:
"Accounting Made Simple" by Mike Piper.
"Rich Dad Poor Dad" by Robert Kiyosaki for financial literacy.
"The Intelligent Investor" by Benjamin Graham for investment finance.

Podcasts/Blogs:
Listen to "Accounting Today" or "The Ed Mylett Show."
Follow finance blogs for industry insights.

Mentorship:
Seek guidance from professionals in the field for career advice.

6. Long-Term Planning

Develop a Career Roadmap:
Start with entry-level roles (e.g., accounting assistant or bookkeeper).
Progress to mid-level roles like financial analyst or accountant.
Plan for advanced roles like finance manager or CPA.

Set Milestones:
Achieve proficiency in accounting tools.
Gain relevant certifications within specific timelines.
Build a professional portfolio of accomplishments.

By combining education, skills development, and practical experience, you can position yourself effectively for a career in finance.
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Bright’s Answer

This should help .
To pursue a career in accounting or finance, you’ll need to focus on the following resources and skills:

1. **Education**: Start with a degree in accounting, finance, or a related field. Consider certifications like CPA (Certified Public Accountant) or CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst).
2. **Technical Skills**: Gain proficiency in accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, Excel), financial analysis, and reporting.
3. **Soft Skills**: Develop strong attention to detail, communication, and problem-solving skills.
4. **Job Shadowing**: Connect with professionals in accounting or finance roles to learn about different career paths and daily tasks.
5. **Courses**: Take online classes in financial analysis, tax, auditing, and budgeting to deepen your knowledge.
6. **Internships**: Look for internships or entry-level jobs to gain practical experience and build your network.

This combination will help you decide which area of finance interests you most, whether it's accounting, financial planning, or investment banking.
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Nolan’s Answer

Hi Kaitlyn,

Great question!

It depends what stage of your academics/career you are at. I highly recommend trying out some introductory level accounting and finance and classes at your high school and/or college to see which area's peak your interest as there are lots of various things you can do in the accounting and finance world (anywhere from a bookkeeper and preparing tax returns to making strategic decisions based on financial analysis). Also, speak to people who are in the profession and people who are majoring in accounting and finance to get their perspectives and advice.

I can speak more to the accounting side. The CPA credential is often a requirement employers wish for their applicants to have (not always but it can be a barrier) so I would recommend looking into the requirements for your state (usually pass the exams, a college degree, 150 credits, and work experience). You will get plenty of resources that will help you learn and grow while going through your degree program, work experience, and studying for the exams.

Good luck!
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