Accounting is ranked as one of the top three business jobs on the "U.S. News and World Report" list of the Best Business Jobs of 2013. Students who choose this field of study will enjoy a median annual salary of $62,850, in a stable and thriving industry. However, there are certain qualifications needed to have a successful accounting career.
Types of Accountants
There are four basic types of accountants described by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Public accountants work at public accounting firms or they may be self-employed, while management accountants may be known as cost, managerial, corporate, industrial or private accountants. Government accountants work for federal, state and local governments, while internal auditors investigate financial mismanagement.
Analytical Skills
Accountants must be analytical to methodically examine documents and financial processes. They use critical thinking skills to determine ways to make the organization more financially efficient. Their analytical skills help them develop ways to reduce costs, increase revenues, improve profits and eliminate waste. Accountants also carefully evaluate financial performance and investigate financial investments such as stocks, bonds and real estate.
Communication Skills
Accountants need excellent communication skills -- both written and verbal. They may interact with a variety of people ranging from managers and directors to members of the accounting staff. Accountants must be able to clearly converse or correspond to ask questions and discuss issues or discrepancies. In addition, they offer advice and make recommendations regarding the best financial business decisions.
Discernment
An attention to detail is an essential qualification for a successful accounting career. The ability to notice one error, discrepancy or inconsistency can often lead to discovering other inaccuracies. On the other hand, missing a small detail can affect the integrity of the organization’s financial records and may cause the company to be audited. In addition, accountants should be detail-oriented to ensure that financial records conform to laws and regulations.
Math Proficiency
Not to overstate the obvious, but math skills are essential in accounting. From computing taxes and accurately preparing tax returns to completing balance sheet statements, accountants should be mathematically proficient. Although the BLS states that complex math skills are not needed, accountants are responsible for keeping track of the company’s spending and buying records, in addition to calculating budget amounts, and these figures must be an accurate depiction of the organization’s finances.
Accountants and Auditors salary
- Top 10% Annual Salary: More than $128,680 ($61.87/hour)
- Median Annual Salary: $73,560 ($35.37/hour)
- Bottom 10% Annual Salary: Less than $45,220 ($21.74/hour)
