By Russell Axford
Russell Axford, Senior Client Partner at Clarity Recruitment, shares his insights on accounting and finance career growth and development.
From scope of duties to title to salary, there are a number of different ways to get promoted. And if you are seeking this type of recognition, it’s important to first understand what it takes to get to the next level.
From time to time, I speak with accounting professionals who want this type of career growth. Here are 3 tips I usually suggest.
Back to basics… Be engaged at work
Show up early, deliver your best work and get involved with different initiatives and projects. When you’re seeking career growth, your task is to go above and beyond the call of duty. Remember: if your employer is going to invest in you, you have to show you’re invested in them.
Exceed expectations
The first step to exceeding expectations is to fully understand them. Take the time to have regular conversations with your boss about what you are doing, how you are doing it and how you can improve in your accounting job. If you are open to constructive criticism and able to act on your boss’ suggestions, you’ll not only reach departmental and organizational objectives but also demonstrate your willingness to learn and create impact.
Quantify your success
You’re an accountant. You know numbers don’t lie. This also means you know the importance of being able to quantify your success in a way that can prove your worth to your organization. Did you solve a $4 million tax liability exposure last year? Or maybe you renegotiated contracts to increase margins, or implemented a dashboard to capture real-time reporting data and reduce close activities. Whatever the example, take time to think about and track the value you bring to the company in your accounting job. The better you can quantify your success, the more leverage you’ll have when it comes time to enter promotion negotiations.
Before you enter the tricky territory of asking for a raise, you need to set yourself up for success. Being engaged at work, understanding and exceeding expectations and quantifying your impact are three ways to can start laying the foundation for a promotion. What are you waiting for?
Let us know what you think! At Clarity Recruitment, we’re always interested in hearing from accounting and finance professionals like yourselves, who are ready for new, exciting opportunities that can take their careers to the next level. And be sure to follow us on Twitter (@clarityrecruits) and connect with us on LinkedIn and Facebook for more great tips and advice.
