Advice for Transitioning to Industry
I’d appreciate any guidance, especially from those who have navigated a similar path!
I recently transitioned from public Accounting, focusing on high net worth tax. Now, I’m finding it challenging to break into the corporate sector, as my experience doesn’t directly align with traditional corporate tax roles. Do you have any suggestions on how to highlight my relevant experience in my job applications and resume?
Also, I’d love to hear any recommendations for job titles that I should be targeting!
I consider myself a strong interviewer, but I’m currently struggling to get past the resume stage. Thank you in advance for your help!
One response
Transitioning from public Accounting to industry can be a bit challenging but definitely achievable with the right approach. Here are some tips that might help you effectively present your experience and improve your chances of landing an industry role:
Tailor Your Resume: Highlight skills from your public Accounting experience that are relevant to corporate tax. Focus on your abilities in compliance, financial reporting, and tax preparation. Use industry-specific language and keywords found in job descriptions to align your experience with what employers are looking for.
Emphasize Transferable Skills: Showcase skills that are valuable in both public Accounting and corporate tax, such as analytical skills, attention to detail, project management, and stakeholder communication. Be sure to include any experience with financial analysis or working with tax software that corporate roles might require.
Consider Relevant Job Titles: Look for positions such as Tax Analyst, Tax Advisor, Tax Manager, or Compliance Analyst. Even roles in financial planning, budgeting, or accounting could be appropriate if they align with your skill set.
Leverage Networking: Reach out to former colleagues or industry contacts who are currently in corporate tax roles. Informational interviews can provide insights and help you learn about unadvertised job opportunities.
Gain Additional Certifications: Consider pursuing a certification such as the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) or even a corporate-focused tax certification to bolster your qualifications and demonstrate your commitment to the transition.
Showcase Projects: If you’ve worked on relevant projects in your public accounting job (even if they were in a different context), make sure to highlight those. Quantify your achievements when possible to show the impact of your work.
Be Open to Junior Roles: If you’re having trouble getting interviews, consider applying for entry-level or junior corporate tax positions. This can serve as a stepping stone to more advanced roles once you gain some industry experience.
Utilize Online Platforms: Update your LinkedIn profile to reflect your interest in corporate tax roles, and engage with content related to tax issues in industry. Join industry groups and participate in discussions to increase your visibility.
Remember, many employers value diverse backgrounds and skills; your public accounting experience can provide a unique perspective that sets you apart. Good luck with your transition!