5 reasons to become an accountant.

In today’s economy it’s not unheard of to change careers, or to pursue a career later in life. We are seeing huge numbers of workers leave their jobs in dying industries in search of a better, more long-term solution, which they often find in accounting as accountants.

When it comes to all the reasons to become an accountant, the list is quite long — after all, accounting is thousands of years old and it will probably continue to exist as long as people do. However, accounting is also one of the fastest-paced and most lucrative careers to pursue in today’s job market. Here are our top five reasons why: 

#1: Job Stability

Unlike most fields, accountants are one of the very few professionals that have a low risk of unemployment. In some cases, accountants are responsible for leading the internal finances of a large firm, but they can also file personal taxes for clients and perform high-profile audits of corporations. Put simply, it is unlikely that accountants will ever be out of work. 

As long as there are businesses bringing in revenue, these professionals will be needed to help deal with the back-end duties. This is especially true during uncertain economic times, as we are facing today.

#2: Entrepreneurship Opportunities

Most specialties prepare someone to deal with specific scenarios. In accounting, however, the employee possesses a wide range of skills that includes almost all layers of business operations. Think of all the coursework an average accountant has to take in order to get certified: their classes will include things like marketing, management, finance, information systems, and much more. 

As a consequence, accountants are usually experts on business principles and ways to run an organization successfully. This means that additional self-employment opportunities are also available in case they decide to start their own firms.

#3: Transferrable Skills

Another great reason to become an accountant is the fact that the skillset in question is very transferable. When one is pursuing a career in accounting, their studies will take them through things like conflict resolution and taxes. Regardless of one’s career, later on, such knowledge can be applied to everyday life. Even after an accountant changes fields, they can still benefit from understanding how to properly file taxes, not to mention the countless lessons on business and human psychology that can be utilized almost everywhere. As you can see, an accountant is never bound by their career, making changing fields very possible.

#4: Competitive Salary

Arguably, the income pertaining to a certain career is often one of the most important factors that come into play. Well, accounting continues to find itself amongst the top 10 highest-paid careers, according to Forbes. Entry-level salaries range from $52,000 for people with a basic education to over $60,000 for those with certain specializations. 

Additionally, year-end and performance bonuses that most employees are eligible for an increase in the starting figure. Not to mention the amazing benefits packages that almost every accounting firm provides their workers with. These include things like a solid health and life insurance as well as matching-contribution retirement plans.

#5: Networking Opportunities

Accounting is not a profession for those who prefer to work alone. Instead, it operates on a team-basis where people join forces and work together. Consequently, a great reason to become an accountant is the neverending connections with other firms, associates, and clients. In fact, one can develop their network of contacts to a point where they can start their own practices effortlessly. Not to forget that working in an environment surrounded by like-minded individuals can facilitate more employee satisfaction which yields better careers.

If you’re ready to take the first steps towards becoming an accountant, check out our Intro to Accounting course HERE: