Navigating My Return to Accounting After a Career Detour – Seeking Your Insights!
Hi everyone!
I’m 27 and in need of some guidance as I look to re-enter the Accounting field after taking a different career path for a while. I don’t believe I’ve fallen too far off course, and I’m aware that there’s still plenty of time for me to realign my career—I just want to ensure I approach this transition effectively.
To give you a bit of background, I graduated in 2022 with a degree in Accounting and business management. I have always found a particular joy in my accounting courses (I know, a bit unusual!), and I originally aimed to make this my career. However, shortly after graduating, I landed a job as an insurance adjuster, thanks to a family friend. It seemed like a fantastic opportunity at the time, but it turned out to not be the right fit for me. The extensive travel and heavy workload took a toll on me, and after 2.5 years, I decided to leave at the end of December.
Since then, I’ve been taking some time to reset, rediscover my happiness, and reflect on who I am. I’ve started casually exploring accounting positions again, but I can’t shake the feeling of being unqualified. With my son being just 18 months old when I graduated and then having my daughter shortly after, it feels like motherhood and stress have made it tough to retain my accounting knowledge over the past three years. I know I’m a quick learner and can adapt swiftly, but it hasn’t made securing interviews any easier.
I’m contemplating taking some refresher courses or perhaps even pursuing a graduate certificate to enhance my skills and bolster my resume, though I’m not interested in pursuing a master’s degree at this point. Any tips or insights on how to successfully transition back and stand out as a candidate, especially considering my recent work history in a different field, would be immensely appreciated.
I feel like I’ve hit a wall with my career, and I’ve lost my sense of direction, so any advice or perspectives you can share would be incredibly helpful. Thank you!
One response
Hi there!
First off, it’s great that you’re taking the time to reassess your career path and prioritize your happiness. Transitioning back into Accounting after some time away can feel daunting, but it sounds like you’re already on the right track by identifying your interest and goals.
Here are some suggestions that might help you in your transition back into the Accounting field:
Refresh Your Knowledge: Taking refresher courses is a fantastic idea! Look for online courses or local workshops that cover key Accounting principles, software, and current regulations. Websites like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, and Udemy offer affordable courses that can give you both the knowledge and confidence you need.
Consider Certifications: While you mentioned not wanting to pursue a master’s degree, you could consider certifications related to accounting that don’t require as much commitment. Options like the Certified Bookkeeper (CB) or obtaining QuickBooks certification can enhance your resume and show employers that you’re dedicated to your career.
Network in the Field: Connections can be incredibly valuable. Attend local accounting meetups, webinars, or industry conferences to meet professionals in the field. Networking can also lead to mentorship opportunities, job leads, and insights into the current job market.
Tailor Your Resume: When you start applying for jobs, focus on transferable skills from your previous work, such as attention to detail, analytical skills, and any financial aspects of your previous role. You can also highlight any relevant experiences from your education.
Consider Entry-Level Positions or Internships: Don’t hesitate to apply for entry-level roles or internships. These can be great ways to get your foot back in the door and gain relevant experience while you continue to learn.
Stay Positive and Be Patient: It’s completely normal to feel a little uncertain about your qualifications after an extended break. Remember that many employers value life experience and different perspectives. Show your enthusiasm for returning to accounting; passion can be a strong asset.
Practice Interviewing: Since you have a different background, it could be helpful to prepare for common interview questions, particularly about why you’re transitioning back to accounting and how your previous experiences will benefit your new role.
Leverage Your Situation: Being a parent and managing the transition can actually be a strong point in your favor. You bring unique perspectives and skills in time management, adaptability, and leadership.
Remember, your path may look different than others, but that doesn’t make it any less valid. Good luck on your journey back into accounting, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you need more advice! You’ve got this!