Accountant
What's it like to be an Accountant?
An Accountant organises and prepares a company’s or individual’s financial statements, submitting them to internal management, different departments, and/or the government for tax filing. Such reports may include cash flows, profits and losses, payments, bills and tax returns.
Tasks and duties
- Overseeing accounting transactions.
- Ensuring that financial reports are done and submitted on time.
- Working with internal groups to verify financial statements.
- Liaising with external auditors or government representatives whenever necessary.
- Calculating taxes and putting together tax returns.
- Analysing reports and presenting findings.
- Monitoring compliance to internal and government financial guidelines.
- Forming budget forecasts.
Depending on where they work, these financial professionals may assess accounts, study financial statements and operations, analyse risk, and give suggestions on how to be more cost-efficient.
How to become an Accountant
Accountants help companies keep track of their finances, enabling them to make sound business decisions. Therefore, formal education is required.
Finish a relevant bachelor degree. To be an Accountant, finish a degree in accounting, finance, or business administration.
Get at least two years of work experience. Aside from internships, you can also land entry-level jobs, such as Accounting Assistant, Bookkeeper or Accounting Clerk.
Get certification to boost your employability. Depending on your career goals, you can get certification from the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), an international organisation that lets you work as a taxation and accounting professional for global companies. Meanwhile, passing the Chartered Accountant Singapore Qualification means you can practise as an Accountant in and outside Singapore. A Certified Public Accountant status also gives you international competence, developing your skills in tax, audit, and legal compliance.
Advance your career by taking a postgraduate course in a maths-related field like business or finance. This will prepare you for supervisory roles, such as Finance Manager and eventually Chief Financial Officer.
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