Happy in your current job in accounting? You should still be mapping out your future. In fact, if you want to advance your career – even if it’s down the line – there are some important steps to be taking now. Your career is and should always be a work in progress. To help you make the most of it, Houston’s accounting recruiters at Murray Resources offer some tips for setting yourself up for success:

#1: Identify advancement opportunities at your company.

Depending on the organization you work for, there are likely many different pathways to promotion. It’s up to you to determine which works best for your career and interests. For instance, if you’re in general accounting, do you want to get on the audit track or into tax accounting? While it’s always a good idea to be open to different possibilities, knowing where you want to go will make it easier to identify and plan out the best pathway for getting there.

#2: Find out what education you need.

In the field of accounting, there are many different degrees and certifications you could earn. Which is best for the type of accounting you want to do in the future? As Houston’s accounting recruiters, Murray Resources knows if you’re interested in the world of public accounting, then earning a CPA is critical. Or, if you’re focused on auditing, then obtaining a certification as a CIA is important. Other certifications that could be valuable to your accounting career include CISA, CPP and CCEP. Also, if the management track piques your interest – and you want to become a comptroller or CFO someday – then you’re likely going to need an MBA, as well.

#3: Focus on soft skills.

In the world of accounting, technical skills are king. But that doesn’t mean soft skills should completely fall to the wayside. In order to advance your career, especially into a leadership position, you need to ensure skills like communication are top-notch. In addition, make sure you’re coming to work each day with a positive and professional attitude. Your manager likely won’t want to promote you if you have a reputation as a naysayer or constant complainer.

#4: Volunteer for challenging assignments.

You’re not going to get ahead by staying in your comfort zone. That’s why it’s important to put yourself out there and volunteer for the tough assignments no one else wants to take on or those that you find especially challenging. For instance, if you need to hone your public speaking skills, go after those assignments that require presentations and verbal reports, so you can focus on improving those skills.

#5: Communicate your ambitions to your boss.

Your boss will often be the one who will refer you for promotions, so tell them about your career ambitions. They can be a source of valuable information and advice, including what specific steps you need to take to get ahead in your career with your company. They can suggest continuing education courses, stretch assignments, or even a mentoring program you could get involved in. But you won’t know what’s available until you ask.

Ready for a promotion to a new accounting job outside your company?

Houston’s accounting recruiters at Murray Resources can help. Whether you work in banking, billing, credit, taxes, or another accounting- or finance-related area, we can connect you with top opportunities and leading employers across Houston, TX. Contact us today to learn more.