Accounting >> ER
Hey, looking for (1) advice as to how can I position my accounting job so it could be somehow useful for ER profile when the time comes. I am learning SAP FICO module and will work with the same within the next 3 months (placement started). Also, am targeting tech companies and e-commerce so as to understand the business more. (2) Advice on any other industry to target would be great. The other threads have been useful as to what skills would help me out but some specific guidance/tips would be appreciated.
Background:
Current age: 22, Commerce grad (easy UG course), bad GPA : 2.3 , 2 year gap after graduation, sports background.
Next 4 year plan:
Accounting job, CFA and proficiency in Financial Modelling.
My main interest is Financial Modelling and want to be good enough at it so as to transition to a job which requires it solely based on technical abilities and networking.
I am starting out late as my interest for finance arised late so a blunt review of my situation (a red pill) would be appreciated. I am very much aware of how out of water I am, but I intend to make it in the long run or after my MBA which I intend to get at 26.
I went straight from public accounting to ER, it’s definitely doable but you need to cast a wide net. Trying to choose your sector is really going to limit you, you need to be open to any sector and take whichever job you can get, there are not a lot of seats so you can’t be choosy. Take the CFA, pick a company and build a model and write up a report. Send those to teams with openings expressing your interest and asking for a quick phone call to introduce yourself and ask thoughtful questions. It’s all a numbers game and if you do this enough you’ll probably find somewhere assuming you at least have decent interview skills. PM me if you have any questions.
I am also in the process of breaking into ER. Can I PM you?
That is sound advice. I'm preparing models on companies every week, Although I was doing that for practise. Now I'll keep in mind that I have to send them too.
Actually the sector was for the accounting job. Should I apply to accounting job in tech co's or e-commerce companies. I surely don't have any restrictions for ER job, sectorwise. That would be a big mistake on my part.
I can't seem to PM you. Maybe because of the anonymous comments. Any way around this ?
Honestly, the 2.3 GPA could be a non-starter for many. Research looks to find talent that can think independently, intellectually, and analytically. Poor grades would illustrate a lack of the above, especially as other candidates looking to enter the industry wouldn’t have that issue. As others mentioned, targeting one of the hotter industries today seems to be a misguided path - think about literally any industry as being appealing. And once you’re in an interview, have some compelling reasons for why someone with your background could excel at the job - being an accounting jockey only isn’t going to cut it, particularly if your analyst wants someone who can think without handholding.
Yes, my GPA is a big burden for me in this job market. And I think only if I make a personal impression will I have a shot at a position.
I am participating in the Financial Modelling World Cup this year. I heard it has quality cases which will improve my skills. Also, I want to validate my skills through this and the CFM certification from FMI. Is this the right path or
Am I overdoing this ? I think, in my situation this is the only thing that will prove my skills. Along with a good model to showcase as advised above.
The industry approach was for my accounting job. That is, if I work in accounts for a tech company, I would understand the sector more. And this might have a miniscule advantage somewhere in terms of experience. For ER, this approach would be very wrong on my part, that's true and I was not going to do that.
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