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If I was to become an accountant, what would my hours/overall job task look like? Is that something that would solely be dependent on the specific job I took?

I'm thinking about majoring in accounting or somewhere in that field, and I just need reassurance that I'll actually be able to do it. I don't want to get myself into anything I'll later want to get out of. Thanks :)
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Shante’s Answer

Hi Khanya,

I usually ask students if they have done research into the accounting field to determine if that is the route they would want take to pursue a career in. There are different aspect of accounting, maybe once you research you may not like it, you can look into marketing, finance, or business administration. I will say venturing into accounting there are different career routes you can take, there is a variety of options with accounting, then with the other majors I have mentioned. Good luck!
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Brandon’s Answer

There are a lot of variables that determine your hours and tasks. This is a great question for a potential employer. In most industries and companies, there will be times you will work more than 40 hours. I would recommend asking questions during an interview about the type of tasks and responsibilities you would have along with the type of flexibility the company offers. There are many times I work more than 50-60 hours in a week, but I have the flexibility to split these hours to be able to spend time with friends and family. I may work until 5, take a break, and then work another couple hours after 8.
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Mike’s Answer

The hours you work are based solely on your employer, the expectations placed on you by your employer and yourself. If you want to truly excel in any profession you choose, you will have to devote adequate time and energy to being the best you can. I say this with a warning, Do Not step on anyone or sabotage anyone else in the process of achieving greatness. You want to build trusting relationships along the way. You will learn and accomplish most when you work with others .

I have my Accounting degree. But today, I do not do Accounting. It is with Accounting I was able to springboard into a job I love. It is the skills that I learned and practiced as an Accountant in my early years that provided the analytical skills and technical understanding that makes me a valuable contributing employee today. I work in an environment that is innovative and dynamic. I got here because of the work I put in early in my career.

Accounting is a great place to start and finish, but know once you start there, you need not finish your career as an Accountant.

Good Luck and be patient with yourself. Second and third careers are nothing to be ashamed of.
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Kristen’s Answer

As the others have said, your tasks depend on the specific role you take. Smaller clients you may work in most aspects of the business, where with a larger client, your job may be specifically around one area only. The size of the firm you work for will vary as well. Reach out to people in your network, or people in the field, and ask them about their job. Ideally, this would be with someone who is in a similar role to what you want (large vs small firm, tax vs audit, etc.). Look into job listings. A lot of times they will post job requirements, and this will give you a good idea of what you would do on a daily basis. Look for an internship as well. They are great ways to see if you'll like the job before starting your career.
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Viktoriya’s Answer

Hi Khanya, you are correct that your hours will depend on the specific job. As a tax accountant (I deal with an individual taxes), our busy season starts in February and lasts until April 15th as this is the time to file your tax returns. During that period we usually work on average 55 hours a week. Other than that my schedule is pretty much regular (40 hours/week) for the rest of the year. Best of luck!
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