Accountants & Auditors - How to Stay on Top of Your Game

Tampa, FL May 29, 2009 – By its very nature, the job of an accountant or auditor is often times very technical and dynamic. Unfortunately, those same jobs can also be very dull and iterative. Performing month-end close procedures or executing a work program for the fifth time in as many years can be both daunting and tedious. Though the level of enthusiasm and attention-to-detail of the accountant and auditor may diminish with time and frequency, the importance of accomplishing these tasks in a proficient and detailed manner does not. It is important for accountants and auditors to remain sharp and on top of their game in order to prevent careless mistakes and to maintain a level of technical proficiency. Doing so not only helps to improve current performance levels in existing situations, but also helps to ensure continued marketability if you are faced with the unfortunate task of needing to find new employment. Below are some suggestions to help accountants and auditors stay on top of their game and keep their skills sharp and current.

1. Dig out old text books, exam prep materials, or papers and reread the material – You’ll be amazed how much material you’ve forgotten and surprised at how fun this can be. Obviously, some material may be outdated, but much of it will retain its relevance. Anything involving accounting, finance, business, economics, etc will do the trick. 2. Frequently visit accounting and audit websites and blogs – Visiting websites in the fields of accounting and audit will ensure that you stay on top of the latest news and developments and in touch with current trends. 3. Go to the bookstore or library – When’s the last time you read an accounting, audit, or finance book other than a standard text book? Probably too long ago. Make sure to stay up on the latest topics and thoughts of key figures within the accounting, audit, and finance industries by frequenting bookstores and libraries. 4. Get and stay involved – Join a trade association, attend a trade conference or seminar, volunteer for a project, do some ad hoc analysis “just for fun”. Whatever…just get involved and keep things fresh. 5. Attend trade association meetings and conferences – These types of events not only focus on industry hot topics, but are also a great way to network with other accountants and auditors. 6. Study for a new certification – Already have the CPA? Study for the CMA. Have the CIA? Then study for the CISA or CFE certification. Just set a goal and reach for it. 7. Read trade journals and finance newspapers– These are excellent sources of information. Reading accounting and audit magazines will keep your knowledge up-to-date and relevant. Newspapers like the Wall Street Journal will keep you in touch with market and economic conditions.

Staying motivated and sharp over the long haul is tough even for the most ardent self-starter. Time and familiarity with information, processes, and job responsibilities can lead to stagnation and stale performance. However, following some or all of the suggestions above will help to ensure that you are sharp and ready for the challenges ahead.