Best Accounting Resume Examples

There are three standard resume formats. The one you choose should depend on your level of work experience and career goals.

• Functional format: Entry-level applicants will benefit from this format. The layout focuses on skills, allowing you to showcase everything that you can do.
• Combination format: This format puts the skills and work experience on equal footing. It’s a great option if you have a few years of professional experience.
• Chronological format: Ideal for professionals with many years of experience, this format showcases expertise through a detailed work history section.

Hiring managers for accounting jobs look for applicants who have a mix of soft and hard skills, specifically: 

• Detail-oriented
• Organization
• Customer service
• Business operations
• MS Office Suite
• Time management
• Verbal communication
• Written communication
• Accountability
• Compliance
• Problem-solving
• Payment processing
• Quickbooks
• Math
• Preparing financial statements
• Analytical thinking
• Forecasting
• Budget administration
• IFRS proficiency
• Pricing and costing

Most accounting jobs require a bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, or business. Many professional accountants obtain additional training and certifications in the field. 

Certifications for accountants include:

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
• Certified Management Accountant (CMA)
• Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) Certification in Control Self-Assessment (CCSA)
• Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

The average salary for an accounting job in the United States in 2021 was $77,250 per year, but the average salary for a professional accountant will differ depending on their chosen industry.

For example:

• Finance and insurance: $79,310.00 average salary per year.
• Management of companies and enterprises: $78,540.00 average salary per year.
• Government: $77.290.00 average salary per year.
• Tax preparation, payroll and bookkeeping: $77.080.00 average salary per year.

Career progression depends on what kind of accounting you do, but overall it’s a great time to join this profession. BLS expects 136,400 openings for accountants and auditors each year from 2021 through 2031.