Top tips to help you when starting a new job in accounting

One of the most exciting challenges in an accountants career is starting a new job. However, this can also be incredibly daunting and stressful.

Follow these steps to help you prepare and settle into your new accounting job.

 

 

Be organised 

Confirm with your recruitment consultant when and where to report on your first day. This may sound obvious but if you are organised, you are less likely to get stressed.

Manage your wardrobe

Make sure you have the correct business attire for your new job. If you haven't yet figured out what the your colleagues will be wearing, always plan on being professional and conservative (suit and tie for men, trouser suit or skirt and jacket for women). It's better to end up overdressed than underdressed, so your boss knows that you're taking your job seriously.

The first few weeks of a new job are always challenging - even seasoned accountants admit starting a new job is difficult. A new job opportunity will never be exactly as you imagined but if you expect challenges you will prepare yourself for a much smoother transition into the new organisation.

Expect challenges and be prepared to adjust

The first few weeks of a new job are always challenging - even seasoned accountants admit starting a new job is difficult. A new job opportunity will never be exactly as you imagined but if you expect challenges you will prepare yourself for a much smoother transition into the new organisation.

Certain things you will have taken for granted in your old job, such as the location of files, stationery, processes in place and who to go to in certain instances, will all become hurdles when you first start your role. Be prepared for the adjustments you will need to make and be aware of the challenge in front of you.

Get to know your boss

What do they like and dislike as far as handing in work? Do they prefer emails or phone calls for asking questions? What are their pet hates? Talk to other employees or his / her assistant for any additional information so you can perform as expected right from the start.

Embrace learning 

There will be so much for you to take over the first few months and this is the time to listen, learn and grasp all that you can to enable you to carry out your new role effectively. Take a note book with you wherever you go and make sure you write things down - it will help you pick things up more easily such as colleagues names.

Enjoy your new career challenge 

Remember you took the new opportunity because you wanted a career challenge. Embrace everything that is thrown at you, wear a smile and try and make the best impression possible.

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For more career advice please contact:

Nic Sephton-Poultney, Country Manager (South Africa)
nic.sephton-poultney@robertwalters.com
+27 (0) 11 881 2414