In the fields of accounting and finance, various roles require a distinct set of skills and qualifications. While these industries are known for their rigorous standards, it’s crucial to recognize that less traditional experience can sometimes be an advantage.
Accounting Roles: Focus on maintaining financial records, ensuring compliance, and preparing tax returns.
Finance Roles: Involve analyzing financial data, advising on investment strategies, and managing assets.
The industry is shifting towards digital literacy, with a strong emphasis on proficiency in tools like QuickBooks, SAP, and advanced Excel.
There is an increasing need for knowledge in regulatory frameworks such as GAAP and IFRS, reflecting a growing focus on compliance.
Technological integration is becoming crucial, with financial modeling and data analytics gaining importance.
While traditional career paths in these fields emphasize extensive experience, there is a growing appreciation for candidates with less conventional backgrounds who have focused on learning specific tools.
Technical Skills: Proficiency in industry-standard tools such as QuickBooks, SAP, and advanced Excel is essential. Highlight your ability to use these tools effectively.
Regulatory Knowledge: Understanding and applying regulatory frameworks like GAAP and IFRS is a must. Demonstrate your knowledge of these regulations and how you have applied them in practice.
Analytical Capabilities: Employers look for strong analytical skills. Whether it’s financial analysis, forecasting, or risk assessment, your ability to interpret data and provide actionable insights is valuable.
When building your resume, put the most emphasis on these sector specific skills and experiences. Really prop yourself up on these. By building your resume to highlight any technical and regulatory expertise, as well as your analytical capabilities, you will be set apart from others in your field that don’t focus on what finance and accounting jobs are currently prioritizing.
When applying for a Financial Analyst position, we took the same job experience and emphasized the relevant aspects of that job.
Freelance Financial Consultant
Self-Employed, 2022 – Present
Marketing Coordinator
Company Name, 2020 – Present
Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with the latest trends and changes in accounting and finance regulations.
Showcase Certifications: If you have certifications like CPA, CFA, or others relevant to the field, make sure they are prominently featured in your application.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Focus on past experiences that directly relate to the job you’re applying for, especially those that demonstrate your skills in using industry-standard tools and complying with regulations.
Think of this as your elevator pitch. In a few punchy sentences, highlight your top qualifications, key experiences, and the unique skills you bring to the table. This is your moment to shine, so make it count.
Experienced professional with a background in various financial areas, seeking a challenging position in the finance sector. I have worked on a variety of financial reports, budgeting tasks, and other finance-related duties. Skilled in handling different financial aspects and looking to apply my knowledge in a new environment where I can contribute to financial success.
Results-driven Financial Analyst with over 5 years of experience in financial modeling, budget management, and data analysis. Proven track record of increasing revenue by 20% through strategic financial planning. Proficient in Excel, QuickBooks, and SAP, with a passion for streamlining processes and improving financial efficiency.
List the financial tools and software you’re a wizard at—QuickBooks, SAP, Excel’s advanced features, you name it. Be specific, because knowing your way around a pivot table can be a game-changer.
Numbers speak louder than words in finance. Show off by quantifying your successes, like “Boosted revenue by 20% through innovative financial strategies” or “Cut costs by 15% by revamping budget processes.” (X by Y by Z formula)
Worked extensively on a range of financial projects, contributing to the preparation and analysis of financial data. Assisted in the planning and management of budgets, ensuring that financial goals were met. Played a role in financial reporting, providing necessary information for decision-making processes.
Increased company profitability by 15% by developing a new cost allocation model. Led a team in conducting a comprehensive financial analysis that uncovered opportunities for cost savings, reducing annual expenses by $200,000.
Share the juicy details of projects where you made a real impact. Whether it’s spearheading a financial audit or managing a million-dollar portfolio, highlight what you did and how it made a difference.
Participated in the financial audit of various projects, ensuring that all documentation was properly filed and that the necessary information was available for auditing purposes. Created and maintained spreadsheets for reporting and tracking financial performance, helping to organize and present financial data to the team.
Led the financial audit for a mid-sized company, ensuring compliance with all regulatory standards and identifying discrepancies that led to a $50,000 recovery. Developed a dynamic financial dashboard using advanced Excel functions, providing real-time financial insights for senior management.
Use Industry Keywords: Incorporate relevant terms from the job listing to help your resume stand out to both ATS systems and human recruiters.
Keep it Tight: Focus on the highlights and most relevant information, keeping your resume concise and to the point.
Proofread Like a Pro: Ensure your resume is error-free. A well-proofread document reflects attention to detail, a crucial trait in finance.