Seeking Advice for Accountant Internships Application
I’m currently looking for internships in Accounting and would love to hear from anyone about what hiring managers typically look for in online applications. I’m a 36-year-old with a bachelor’s degree in public health and I am now pursuing a master’s degree in Accounting. Although I have over 10 years of experience in customer service and 5 years in administrative roles, I have little direct experience as an accountant.
Despite applying to numerous positions, I’ve received very few callbacks. The few interviews I’ve had ended with rejection emails, and I suspect I may not be presenting myself effectively during those interviews. I’m eager to break into this field and would greatly appreciate any advice to improve my application and interview skills.
Additionally, I have a strong interest in forensic Accounting and would love any tips on how to successfully enter that niche. Any help would be immensely appreciated! Thank you!
One response
It’s great to see your enthusiasm for starting a career in Accounting, especially in a specialized field like forensic Accounting. Here are some tips to strengthen your applications and improve your chances of getting interviews for accountant internships:
Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter: Highlight your relevant skills from your customer service and administrative experience that can translate into the Accounting world. Focus on your attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, organizational skills, and any experience with financial transactions or data management.
Utilize Keywords: Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to filter applications. Make sure to include relevant keywords from the job description in your resume and cover letter (e.g., terms like “financial analysis,” “accounting principles,” “data entry,” etc.).
Focus on Your Education: Since you’re currently enrolled in a graduate program in accounting, emphasize your academic achievements. Any relevant coursework, projects, or skills learned during your studies can highlight your commitment and readiness for the role.
Certifications: Consider pursuing relevant certifications, such as the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) if you’re interested in forensic accounting. These credentials can set you apart and demonstrate your commitment to the field.
Network: Leverage LinkedIn to connect with professionals in the accounting and forensic accounting fields. Engage in groups or forums related to accounting, attend webinars, and don’t hesitate to reach out to people for informational interviews.
Use Your Unique Background: Your experience in public health and customer service can bring a unique perspective to accounting. Be prepared to explain how these previous experiences can provide valuable insights or skills relevant to the accounting field.
Practice Interviewing: If you’ve received rejections, consider seeking feedback if possible. Conduct mock interviews with friends, family, or career services at your school, focusing on common accounting interview questions.
Look for Different Opportunities: While you may be targeting forensic accounting, keep an open mind about internships that can build your foundational accounting skills. Gaining experience in a general accounting role can provide you with valuable insights into the field and might make you a more competitive candidate for forensic positions later.
Stay Persistent: The job market can be tough, especially in specialized fields. Keep applying and refining your approach. Each rejection can serve as a learning opportunity to improve your future applications.
Get Involved: Consider joining professional organizations related to accounting. Participation can provide networking opportunities and access to resources that can enhance your knowledge and skills in forensic accounting.
Remember, many people have successfully transitioned into accounting from unrelated fields. Stay confident in your abilities and keep pushing forward! Good luck!