Do you think you might eventually want to reach an executive level with your accounting or finance career? Chief financial officers (CFO) need very specific proficiencies and experiences to be considered for these top jobs. How can you put your current career on a path toward an executive level job? Here are a few things to keep in mind.
Focus on soft skills
You can have impeccable accounting skills but if you’re not a natural leader you will have to work on developing more skills for a CFO position. Focus on cultivating these skills by learning communications, writing skills, leadership, and other important traits of successful CFOs. Of course, these soft skills come naturally to some people but that doesn’t mean you can’t learn them.
Solve problems
A mark of a good leader is someone who doesn’t point fingers when a problem needs to be solved. When there is a problem it ultimately doesn’t matter who was at fault. A CFO is almost always the one to take the heat. Instead, you need to focus on solving the problems as quickly as possible. This proactive attitude will be extremely important in your future career.
Further your education
Don’t stop at your CPA or MBA. A CFO is continuously willing to learn new things and take his or her career to the next level. Go to school, take additional certifications, and build a resume that you can be proud of when you seek your next management position. Look into possible classes or certifications in your area and don’t wait to sign up.
Gain corporate experience
Lastly, a CFO must have corporate experience. Get a job in the private sector to learn all the ins and outs of working with a corporation. Know the current financial regulations and be able to answer questions as necessary. If you are currently working as a CPA or for an auditing firm, it may be a good time to transition to a corporate financial job.
Are you looking for the next step in your financial career? NRI is currently hiring for accounting jobs in Washington DC so connect with us today!
