Accounting and finance have always been, and always will be, services in high demand. Sound businesses and wealthy individuals depend on talented accounting and finance management. Far from being a stagnant career choice, there’s room to grow in these professions. Additionally, many firms are watching their experienced leaders retire, further opening the doors for you to receive that much-desired promotion.

But promotions don’t just come on a platter – they must be earned. Every journey needs a road map, and here is yours.

Sharpen Your Skill Set

Take a look at what’s in your wheelhouse and assess where you need growth. Of course, ensuring you are up-to-date on the industry’s technology, software, and certifications is a given. You may also find external training via CPE courses and topical classes beneficial.

Remember, both hard and soft skills are essential in accounting and finance. So, include a close examination of your soft and interpersonal skills as well. Some of the most relevant are:

• Communication
  • Effective Leadership
  • Relational management
  • Negotiation
  • Critical thinking
  • Positivity

Seek input and feedback from trusted mentors as you pursue refinement in these areas. Communication and presentation skills are highly significant. Be willing to practice, practice, practice!

Try Something New

It never hurts to seek to cross-train or try something new. Accounting firms often provide a wide range of services in different areas. Auditing, taxation, bookkeeping, and financial planning are just a few. Enhance your resume with training in these various

areas. Work with a new type of client. If managers are watching (and most of the time, they are!), this allows them to see you are willing to grow and learn. 

Talk to Your Boss

A meeting with your boss can bring positive results in two ways.

1. If your boss is unaware of your interest in the promotion or, in the case of a mega department, unaware of all your achievements, why would they consider you for a promotion? Be open about your goals. Let them know why you think you’re ready for the next step in your career.

• You may be unaware of things you need to do to snag that promotion. Your boss can let you know about necessary qualifications, as well as other steps to take if you want an opportunity to move forward.

Your boss can help you accomplish your goals by pointing you in the right direction! 

Network, Network, Network!

Relationships play a rather large part in success. As the saying goes, “it’s not only what you know, but who you know.” Therefore, focus on building solid relationships and connections throughout the company. Look for opportunities to connect and reach the community as well. Not only might this put you in “the right place at the right time” for a promotion, but it demonstrates that you are a team player and capable of networking to benefit the company.

The team at Robert Joseph Group takes career growth seriously. We specialize in matching top talent with the right positions within the best companies. You can trust our expertise to match you with your next career step. Contact us today.