What to Expect in Your First Accounting Job and How to Excel

Whether you’re stepping into your first accounting job after college or transitioning from another industry, beginning a new role in the accounting field is both exciting and challenging. Starting an entry level position can make anyone overwhelmed or nervous, and beginning an accounting position with a great deal of software to familiarize yourself with in a short period of time.

If you’re preparing to begin your career in accounting, it’s important to get started on the right foot, so your first role is the initial step towards a long, thriving career. This guide walks through what you need to know about getting hired, the types of entry-level accounting jobs available, the importance of accounting software, what to expect during your first few months, and how to stand out from the crowd.

Transitioning Into an Accounting Job After Graduation or Industry Change

Landing your first accounting job can happen in a few different ways. Many candidates come straight from college with degrees in accounting, finance, or business administration. Others transition from related fields like banking, office administration, or customer service.

Not all entry level positions require a previous history in accounting. Regardless of your background, employers are looking for candidates who are detail-oriented, trustworthy, organized, and eager to learn. If you’re switching industries, it’s important to frame your transferable skills—such as handling sensitive data, working with numbers, or managing deadlines—as assets that prepare you for success in an accounting job. If you are coming straight out of school, include class projects or summer internships on your resume to show potential employers your interest in the industry and the work you have done to gain hands on experience ahead of your first position.

Entry-Level Accounting Jobs You Can Land With No Experience

You don’t need years of experience to break into the field. Many companies are willing to train their entry level hires on these roles because they have specific methodologies they would like their employees to follow. Several entry-level accounting roles offer strong career potential and valuable on-the-job training:

Bookkeeper

Bookkeepers handle basic financial recordkeeping, including recording transactions, reconciling bank statements, and maintaining ledgers. Accuracy and attention to detail are critical in this role.

Payroll Associate

Payroll associates ensure employees are paid correctly and on time. This role involves calculating wages, processing timesheets, and working with HR and finance teams.

Accounting Clerk

This position supports the accounting department by performing administrative tasks such as filing financial records, preparing invoices, and managing incoming payments.

Junior Accountant

A junior accountant assists with financial reporting, general ledger entries, and account reconciliations. It’s a great stepping stone to becoming a full accountant.

Accounts Payable Specialist

In this role, you’ll manage outgoing payments and ensure that vendors and suppliers are paid accurately and on time, often using accounting software to track transactions.

Each of these roles introduces you to essential accounting concepts and systems and can set you up for long-term success in the field. You would most likely report directly to an accounting manager or full-time accountant that will train you on best practices and mentor you at the start of your career.

Why Familiarity With Accounting Software Is Key to Success

Almost all modern accounting jobs involve the use of specialized accounting software. Employers don’t expect you to be an expert on day one, but being familiar with common platforms shows initiative and can make your onboarding experience much smoother.

You’ll be trained on the specific accounting software your employer uses, but doing a little homework before you start can go a long way. Many platforms offer free trials, tutorials, or certification courses that give you a head start. Having some prior exposure can reduce the stress of massive amounts of training at the beginning of a role, and help you pick up on key concepts quicker. The more you can feel confident before starting your first day, the easier it will be to adapt to a first-time role.

What to Expect in Your First Few Months on the Job

Your first accounting job will likely come with a steep learning curve, this is completely normal and to be expected. Here are a few things to prepare for:

1. Information Overload

You’ll be absorbing a lot: company-specific processes, financial procedures, compliance guidelines, and new tools. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed, but staying organized and asking for clarification will help.

2. Building Technical and Soft Skills

Expect to develop both your technical skills (such as using accounting software and analyzing data) and soft skills like communication, problem-solving, and time management. Your technical skills will establish a foundation for your position moving forward, and enhancing your soft skills can position you to be prepared for future roles with more collaboration and responsibility.

3. Hands-On Collaboration

Teamwork is essential, especially in your first few months. You’ll likely collaborate closely with colleagues as you learn the ropes, so be open to feedback and ready to pitch in where needed. If you feel closely monitored in the first few months of your role don’t take it as a negative, but continue to learn so you can transition into a more independent contributor once you have a handle on your new role.

How to Excel in Your First Accounting Job

The most successful entry-level accounting professionals take a proactive approach to learning and development. Managers and senior staff are encouraged by new hires that are eager to learn and work hard to succeed in their position. Here’s how to stand out:

Ask Questions

Don’t hesitate to ask about processes, expectations, or unfamiliar terms. It’s better to clarify early on than to guess and create larger issues for the future—and it shows you’re engaged.

Build Industry-Specific Knowledge

Keep a notebook or digital document with definitions, procedures, and insights you pick up along the way. Over time, this will become your personal accounting reference guide. Explore industry specific blogs, podcasts and article banks to keep updated on the changes within your industry.

Deepen Your Understanding of Accounting Software

If you encounter a new tool at work, explore its official documentation or complete an online tutorial. Knowing your way around the platform can help you perform tasks more efficiently.

Pursue Certifications

Once you’ve gained some experience, consider pursuing certifications such as a Certified Bookkeeper, a Certified Public Accountant, or a Quickbooks Certified User. These credentials can improve your credibility and open doors to more advanced accounting jobs.

Continue to Network

Stay connected with colleagues, industry groups, and recruiters. Building relationships in the accounting field can lead to mentorships, job referrals, and opportunities for advancement. Explore conferences or workshopping opportunities to meet relevant members of the industry.

Ready to Launch Your Accounting Career? Let’s Connect

Breaking into the accounting field can feel daunting, but with the right mindset and support, it’s a career path with significant growth potential. Whether you’re fresh out of school or making a career shift, you don’t have to do it alone.

At Professional Alternatives, our experienced accounting recruiters are here to help you navigate the job search process and connect with top employers. If you’re ready to start or grow your accounting career, reach out today—we’re here to help you land your next opportunity and succeed from day one. Check out our currently open accounting roles, or submit your resume to be automatically considered for positions that fit your career goals.