Navigating the Accounting Job Market: Advice Needed from Fellow Graduates

Hello, everyone!

Today marks a significant milestone for me as I proudly graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Accounting! As I transition from being a student to stepping into the professional world at 22 years old, I’m reaching out for advice and insights to help guide me in my upcoming job search.

Over the past few years, I’ve often found myself browsing through this community, gathering wisdom and sharing in the experience of others. Now, with my degree in hand, I’m ready to embark on my journey toward finding my first Accounting role.

My Job Search Timeline

I plan to initiate my full-time job applications around mid to late June. Before diving into this new chapter, my mother and I are taking a much-needed vacation to visit family members I haven’t seen in years. Upon returning, my approach will be to start applying primarily to local opportunities. I’m considering reaching out to my parish in Louisiana, especially since my sister works in the public school system there, which could provide a useful networking connection. Additionally, I’m contemplating pursuing opportunities at Walmart, where I’ve been employed for nearly five years, aiming to transition from the sales floor to an office role.

Seeking Your Insights

I’d love your input on my approach! Specifically, I have a few questions:

1. Is my plan sound? Do you think focusing on my local connections and current employer is a good strategy?

2. What should my job search process entail? Would it be wise to apply for a variety of positions, including internships and part-time roles, as long as I meet the qualifications?

3. Navigating GPA Concerns: Given that I graduated with a GPA of 3.1 and lack extensive internship experience, will this hinder my job search? What can I do to mitigate this?

4. Salary Expectations: What starting salary should I realistically expect, and what is a reasonable amount to ask for during negotiations?

5. Enhancing My Resume and Interview Presence: With no extracurricular activities or internships on my resume, what key elements should I emphasize during interviews to effectively market myself?

I’ve been reassured by professors and various online forums that many entry-level positions in accounting are accessible as long as I have my bachelor’s degree. I also hold a minor in Spanish, giving me the added benefit of being bilingual and helping me accumulate the necessary 150 credit hours for my CPA exam