In these times of economic crisis, it has become difficult to know how to enter the job market. It’s all a bunch of unanswered questions: which sector, which area, how much and what kind of experience is needed?
This is a particular headache for those who have decided to study for business-related careers. All the business and finance majors are looking on nervously, trying to decide which branch they should pursue to maximise their earning potential and career prospects.
However, there is a factor that people – particularly young, ambitious individuals – sometimes tend to ignore in their pursuit of glamour and opportunity. Job security, like a good goalkeeper, can often be undervalued but should be given a great deal of consideration, especially when times are tough for the economy.
So, what’s the advantage of pursuing accounting? Well, here’s just a few facts pertaining to the ease of finding and keeping a job:
- In January-September 2011, a tough year for the U.S. economy, the number of available accounting jobs increased by 39,000, compared to a loss of 2,000 jobs in the rest of the financial sector as a whole(Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor)
- Accounting is one of the most sought-after qualifications when employers look to hire university graduates (National Association of Colleges and Employers)
- Accounting is one of the 10 most safe jobs to have (Info Corner)
Moreover, it doesn’t all have to be banking and “boring” accounting. This is what accounting is famous for – cue the image of the old-style bank manager, the epitome of being sensible and careful with your money. There are other options, though: forensic accounting, where you look into individual and business accounts for signs of inconsistencies and fraud; international accounting, which involves ironing out the details in international deals between companies; and even mixing it up by pursuing multiple careers or diversified jobs in which you can be kept interested by staying on your toes. After all, accounting is a versatile skill that can be applied to multiple situations. You could even become your own boss, like 8% of accountants in the U.S.
Joe Wareham writes on financial issues and recommends looking for accounting jobs with moneyjobs.com .
