Whether you’re at the very start of your career, or you’re ready for a change, finding your next (or first) role can be a challenging task. Both public and industry accountants are in high demand in Canada, but how do you find a role that’s right for you?
Here are three steps that will land you your next (or first) job.
Mentorship
You can learn from others who have taken this step before you. It's important that you understand the necessary steps in getting from where you are now, all the way up to leadership positions if that's your goal. Mentors are there to make sure you're on the right track and will keep you accountable for your goals. Don't be afraid to lean on them when you need it! But how do you go about finding a mentor? Networking sites like LinkedIn aren’t just buzzing with the latest industry and network news, but are an excellent place to connect with people who are in your ideal long-term position. Connect with them and ask them about the steps they took to get there.
Have a plan
Make a plan for your career now, so you'll know what jobs prospects you may want to consider later. It’s good practice to anticipate when your current job will become stale or unfulfilling (or both) and figure out what steps are required to get where you want to go—and how much time and effort those steps will take. This may mean asking yourself questions like: "What type of work would I enjoy?" or "What kind of environment would be most compatible with my personality type?" It could also mean considering what skills are necessary for a different position and assessing whether you need to take additional courses to obtain those skills.
Talk to recruiters
Recruiters can be an amazing resource for finding the right accounting job.
If you're still in school, or if you've been in your current position for a while and are looking to make a change, recruiters can help connect you with companies that may be hiring.
Some recruiters specialize in entry-level positions, but others specialize in specific fields such as technology or finance.
There’s no shortage of opportunities out there! The number of accounting positions available per year has been steadily increasing since 2015, with over 165,000 roles available within accounting, tax preparations, bookkeeping and payroll in 2020 alone. (statcan) While some of these jobs are advertised online through job boards, many more go unposted on those sites because they require specialized knowledge and experience to fill them effectively—and that’s where the power of working with a recruiter comes into play!
It’s important that you take action now—and not wait for something to happen. You can start by talking with recruiters or other professionals about what jobs are in demand in your area. Then make sure your resume is up-to-date and relevant.
It can feel a bit overwhelming looking for the next step in your career. How can you be sure you’re making the right decision? That’s why we’re here to help. Our close knit team at Minted Search Group work closely and constantly with a network of clients, ensuring that you'll be seen for the roles you want (and are perfect for!) —from the most junior to senior positions, in all areas including: Tax, Assurance, Auditing, Valuations, In-house Operational Roles, HR, Internal Accounting, Administration and more…
Don’t be shy, let’s chat.
“Moving from one job to another is stressful and full of uncertainties, but Minted Search Group strived to understand what I wanted and deliver accordingly. They were exceptional throughout the process, from the first introduction call, to the last congratulations call. They are very knowledgeable about the accounting industry, very supportive, professional and driven. Thanks for making it a fun experience. Highly recommend Steve and Minted Search Group!”
