Becoming an accountant requires a combination of formal education, practical experience, and continuous professional development. In this article, We will guide aspiring accountants through the essential steps to establishing a successful career in accounting in New Zealand.
Accounting Career Education and Qualifications
To kickstart your accounting career, you should pursue a Bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field. Look for programs accredited by professional accounting bodies like Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CA ANZ) or CPA Australia. These organisations ensure that the curriculum meets industry standards and equips you with the necessary knowledge and skills.
During your studies, you’ll cover fundamental accounting principles, financial reporting, taxation, auditing, business law, and other relevant subjects. Additionally, some programs may offer internships or work placements, providing valuable practical experience even before you officially enter the workforce.
Internship and Practical Experience
Once you’ve completed your degree or are nearing the end, seek internships or graduate programs offered by accounting firms in New Zealand. These opportunities allow you to apply the theoretical knowledge gained in your studies to real-world situations. You’ll work under the guidance of experienced professionals, gaining insights into different accounting practices and industries.
Practical experience is crucial for developing problem-solving skills, navigating accounting software, and building relationships with clients and colleagues. It also provides a chance to discover which specific area of accounting you want to specialise in later on.
Accounting Career Professional Certification
After completing your degree and gaining practical experience, it’s time to pursue a professional accounting certification. In New Zealand, the two most well-known designations are Chartered Accountants (CA) and Certified Practising Accountants (CPA).
For CA certification, you must register with Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CA ANZ), complete the CA Program modules, and pass the final CA exam. The CPA certification, on the other hand, requires membership with CPA Australia, completing the CPA Program, and successfully passing the required exams.
These certifications demonstrate your proficiency, dedication, and commitment to the highest standards of the accounting profession, making you more marketable to potential employers and clients.
Continuing Professional Development
As a certified accountant, your journey of learning and development continues. You’ll need to engage in Continuing Professional Development (CPD) to maintain your certification. CPD involves participating in relevant workshops, seminars, webinars, and other educational activities to keep up with changes in accounting regulations, tax laws, and industry trends.
CPD ensures that you stay current in your knowledge and skills, positioning you as a competent and reliable accountant in the eyes of clients and employers.
Accounting Career Specialisation and Further Studies
Once you’ve established yourself as an accountant, consider specialising in a particular area to advance your career. For example, you could focus on tax planning and compliance, auditing and assurance, management accounting, financial analysis, or forensic accounting.
To gain expertise in your chosen area, consider pursuing postgraduate studies or obtaining additional certifications. These specialised qualifications can enhance your credibility, open doors to more senior positions, and potentially lead to higher earning potential.
Tips for Aspiring Accountants:
- Networking: Attend accounting events, join professional associations, and use social media platforms like LinkedIn to connect with other professionals in the field. Networking can lead to job opportunities and valuable insights.
- Technological Proficiency: Embrace accounting software and technology to streamline your work processes and provide more efficient services to clients.
- Communication Skills: Develop strong verbal and written communication skills to explain financial information to non-accounting stakeholders effectively.
- Ethical Behavior: Always prioritise ethical conduct and adhere to professional codes of conduct and accounting standards.
In Summary
Becoming an expert accountant in New Zealand is a journey that requires a combination of formal education, practical experience, and continuous professional development. It all starts with pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field from accredited programs recognised by professional accounting bodies like CA ANZ or CPA Australia.
Practical experience gained through internships or graduate programs further complements theoretical knowledge. It helps aspiring accountants apply their skills in real-world scenarios. Once armed with a degree and practical exposure, obtaining a professional accounting certification, such as CA or CPA, demonstrates a commitment to excellence and sets the stage for a successful career.
However, the learning doesn’t stop with certification. Engaging in continuous professional development is essential to stay updated on the latest industry trends, regulations, and technological advancements. Aspiring accountants should also consider specialising in a specific area of accounting to enhance their expertise and career prospects.
Ethical behaviour is paramount in the accounting profession, and maintaining high standards of integrity is crucial for building trust with clients and upholding the field’s reputation.
By following these steps and remaining dedicated to growth and learning, aspiring accountants can establish a rewarding and successful career with small business accountants or larger firms in accounting in New Zealand.
Why not take a look at our article on career paths for young adults while you’re here?