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32 Accountant Resume Examples &...

32 Accountant Resume Examples & Guide for 2024

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Crafting an accountant's resume may seem overwhelming, especially when you struggle with quantifying your achievements. Learning how to write an effective accountant resume is crucial to landing your dream job. In this article, you'll discover an actual ready-to-use example, a step-by-step guide for each critical section, and how to tailor your resume to the job description for an ATS-friendly format.

How to make your accountant resume

Now that you're ready to create your accountant resume, let's dive into the essential aspects of formatting, design, and content to make it stand out.

How to format your accountant resume

Consider the following recommendations to ensure your resume is both ATS and reader-friendly:

  • Columns: While ATS can read any number of columns, stick to a reverse chronological resume format for simplicity and consider a hybrid resume format when necessary.
  • Margins: ATS can read any margins, but for optimal printing and readability, maintain a 1-inch margin on all sides.
  • Spacing: Although ATS doesn't have issues with spacing, using 1.15 line spacing ensures optimal readability.
  • Length: Keep your resume concise, aiming for one to two pages to capture the most relevant information.
  • Format type: Submit your resume in a PDF format to preserve formatting across different devices.

Properly formatting your resume is key to creating a professional first impression. Explore various resume formats to determine which suits your needs best.

pro tip icon
Pro tip

When formatting your resume, use a clean, easy-to-read font and avoid excessive use of colors or graphics to ensure a polished appearance.

How to design your accountant resume

In addition to formatting, the design elements of your accountant resume can help you stand out without hindering the ATS parsing of your text content. Here are some recommendations to enhance your resume's visual appeal:

  • Font type and size: While the ATS is generally indifferent to resume fonts, choose a legible and professional font for your resume.

  • Colors: Incorporate a limited amount of color on your resume to emphasize headings or sections without overwhelming the reader.

  • Backgrounds: Utilize simple backgrounds that don't distract from the content, ensuring readability and a polished look.

  • Icons: Strategically place resume icons to highlight key information or skills, but don't overdo it.

  • Photo: Including a resume photo is optional and dependent on the industry and geographic location.

pro tip icon
Pro tip

When incorporating design elements, always prioritize readability and professionalism. Choose a cohesive color scheme and design that aligns with the industry you're targeting.

How to write each section of your accountant resume

Now let's dive into crafting each section of your accountant resume, using good and bad examples and a checklist to ensure you include all the necessary details in a step-by-step format.

Step #1. Add your contact information and more in the accountant resume header

An effective resume header is crucial for showcasing your contact information and making a strong first impression. Here's a checklist of essential elements for an accountant resume header:

  • Your first name and last name: Use your full name or a professional nickname if preferred.
  • Your title: Highlight your relevant experience, such as "Certified Public Accountant" or "Financial Analyst."
  • Your phone number: Include a current, professional number where employers can easily reach you.
  • Your email address: Use a professional email address, ideally with your name in it.
  • Your location: Include your city, state, and country, but avoid listing your full street address for privacy reasons.
  • Relevant social media handles (optional): If applicable, provide links to professional profiles like LinkedIn or industry-specific platforms.

Remember, a well-structured resume header sets the tone for the rest of your resume and ensures that employers can easily contact you.

John Smith
Accounting Enthusiast
(123) 456-7890
john_smith87@email.com
1234 Oak Lane, New York, NY, USA
WRONG
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What’s bad about this example
  • The title "Accounting Enthusiast" is too casual and lacks professionalism.
  • Full street address is provided, which is unnecessary and raises privacy concerns.
John Smith
Certified Public Accountant
(123) 456-7890
john.smith@email.com
New York, NY, USA
RIGHT
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What’s good about this example:
  1. The title "Certified Public Accountant" reflects the candidate's relevant experience and qualifications.
  2. A professional email address is used, which includes the candidate's name.
  3. Only the city, state, and country are listed for location, which is sufficient and maintains privacy.

Step #2. Create an impactful accountant resume summary

A well-crafted summary is essential for showcasing your qualifications and capturing the attention of both recruiters and ATS systems. Here's a checklist of crucial elements to include in an accountant resume summary:

  • Your title and years of experience: Clearly state your expertise and experience level.
  • The most relevant skills in your field: Emphasize key skills that demonstrate your proficiency in accounting.
  • Your top 1-2 professional achievements: Showcase your accomplishments to establish credibility and competence.

An effective summary benefits both the ATS and the recruiter by:

  • Providing extra real estate for adding keywords from the job description, making your resume more ATS-friendly.
  • Offering a concise snapshot of your professional profile, allowing recruiters to quickly assess your suitability for the role.

Ensure you name the section properly for the ATS, such as "Summary" or "Professional Summary."

Summary
Experienced accountant with a strong background in various financial tasks. Detail-oriented and dedicated to helping businesses succeed.
RIGHT
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What’s bad about this example:
  • The summary is generic and doesn't emphasize the candidate's specific qualifications or expertise in accounting.
  • Lacks mention of relevant skills or software proficiency, which are important for the role.
  • Omits any quantifiable professional achievements that can demonstrate the candidate's value to potential employers.
Summary
Certified Public Accountant with 5+ years of experience in tax preparation and financial analysis. Proficient in QuickBooks and Excel. Increased tax return accuracy by 20% and reduced processing time by 15% in previous role.
RIGHT
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What’s good about this example:
  • Clearly states the candidate's title, years of experience, and relevant skills.
  • Highlights specific professional achievements that demonstrate the candidate's value to potential employers.

Step #3. Build an experience section for your accountant resume that outshines other candidates

A well-structured experience section with quantified achievements can set you apart from other candidates and demonstrate your expertise in the accounting field. Follow this checklist to create an impressive resume experience section:

  • Properly name the section for the ATS, such as "Experience" or "Work Experience."

  • Use reverse chronological order to showcase your most recent and relevant work experiences first.

  • Include job title, company's name, location, and a brief description of the company.

  • Date of employment: Ensure proper date formatting to make it ATS-friendly.

  • List achievements and responsibilities using a suitable number of bullet points and job positions (typically 3-5 jobs).

  • Focus on the relevancy of your experience to the position you're applying for.

  • Address employment gaps and provide explanations if necessary.

Experience
Accountant
ABC Company
  • Handled accounting tasks
  • Worked with finance team
  • Managed invoices
  • Maintained records
WRONG
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What’s bad about this example
  • Vague bullet points that don't highlight specific accomplishments or quantify achievements.
  • Missing location and company description, which can make the experience seem less credible.
Experience
Senior Accountant
XYZ Corporation
New York, NY
A leading financial services company with over 10,000 employees worldwide.
  • Reduced month-end closing time by 20% through implementing efficient accounting processes.
  • Collaborated with a team of 10 to maintain a $15M budget and ensure timely financial reporting.
  • Managed over 500 invoices monthly, improving accounts payable accuracy by 15%.
  • Maintained financial records in compliance with regulatory standards and company policies.
RIGHT
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What’s good about this example
  • Clear, quantified achievements that demonstrate the impact on the company.
  • Complete information, including location and company description, providing context and credibility to the experience.

Step #4. Make a strong accountant resume education section

An effective education section is essential for accountant resumes, as it demonstrates your expertise and qualifications in the field.

Consider the following recommendations when crafting your education section:

  • Degree Name: Clearly state the specific degree you have earned, such as Bachelor of Science in Accounting
  • University, college, or other institution: Mention the name of the educational institution where you obtained your degree
  • Location (optional): Include the city and state of the educational institution, if relevant
  • Years attended: Provide the years of attendance or graduation date
  • Coursework: If applicable, highlight relevant coursework that showcases your accounting knowledge
  • MBA: If you have an MBA, properly list it on your resume to emphasize your advanced business education
  • Incomplete Degree: Address incomplete degrees in a way that emphasizes the knowledge and skills you acquired
  • GPA: Decide whether to include your GPA based on its relevance and impressiveness.
Education
Bachelor of Science in Accounting
XYZ University
New York, NY
GPA
3.8
/
4.0
  • Relevant coursework: Financial Accounting, Managerial Accounting, Taxation
RIGHT
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What’s good about this example
  • The degree name is specific and clearly stated
  • The institution, location, and years attended are provided
  • Relevant coursework is listed to emphasize accounting knowledge
  • The GPA is included, as it is both relevant and impressive

Step #5. List your relevant accountant resume skills

A strong skill set is crucial for accountant resumes, as it showcases your expertise and ability to perform the job effectively.

Consider the following recommendations when crafting your skills section:

  • ATS-friendly section name: Use a clear and recognizable title, such as "Skills" or "Core Competencies"
  • Hard skills: Include relevant hard skills for accountants, such as software proficiency or financial analysis, as they are important for ATS scanning
  • Soft skills: List applicable soft skills that demonstrate your interpersonal abilities and work ethic, which are essential for both ATS and recruiters
  • Match skills to the job description: Tailor your skills section to the specific requirements listed in the job description to maximize your chances of being shortlisted
Strengths
Attention to Detail
Accurately managed financial records for a mid-sized company, ensuring error-free documentation and compliance with regulations
Time Management
Efficiently prioritized tasks to meet tight deadlines, successfully completing monthly financial reports on time for 3 consecutive years
Teamwork
Collaborated with a team of 5 accountants to prepare year-end financial statements, resulting in a smooth and timely audit process
RIGHT
Skills
Accounting Software
QuickBooks
Sage
Xero
Data Analysis Tools
Excel
Tableau
Power BI
Tax Software
TurboTax
H&R Block
TaxAct
RIGHT

Step #6. Add extra sections to your resume

Incorporating extra sections in your accountant resume can help you stand out and demonstrate your cultural fit within the company. Consider adding the following relevant sections:

  • Membership of professional associations: Show your commitment to the field by listing relevant organizations you belong to, such as the AICPA or IMA
  • Publications: Showcase your expertise by listing published articles, books, or research papers related to accounting
  • Conferences: Highlight your dedication to professional development by listing accounting conferences you've attended or presented at
  • Volunteering: Share any volunteering experiences related to accounting or financial literacy, demonstrating your community involvement
  • Language skills: List any additional languages you speak, which can be an asset when working with international clients or colleagues
  • Awards: Mention any relevant awards or recognitions that highlight your accomplishments in the accounting field
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Pro tip

Keep the extra sections concise and focused on your target position. Align them with the company values and emphasize how they make you a well-rounded candidate for the accountant role.

Step #7. Finalize your accountant resume

Incorporating extra sections in your accountant resume can help you stand out and demonstrate your cultural fit within the company. Consider adding the following relevant sections:

  • Membership of professional associations: Show your commitment to the field by listing relevant organizations you belong to, such as the AICPA or IMA
  • Publications: Showcase your expertise by listing published articles, books, or research papers related to accounting
  • Conferences: Highlight your dedication to professional development by listing accounting conferences you've attended or presented at
  • Volunteering: Share any volunteering experiences related to accounting or financial literacy, demonstrating your community involvement
  • Language skills: List any additional languages you speak, which can be an asset when working with international clients or colleagues
  • Awards: Mention any relevant awards or recognitions that highlight your accomplishments in the accounting field
pro tip icon
Pro tip

Keep the extra sections concise and focused on your target position. Align them with the company values and emphasize how they make you a well-rounded candidate for the accountant role.

Step #8. Create an accountant cover letter to show your extra effort

A well-crafted accountant cover letter can make a significant difference in your job application by highlighting your achievements, skills, and fit for the role. It serves as a personalized introduction to the hiring manager, showcasing your genuine interest in the position.

Your accountant cover letter should include:

  • Contact information that corresponds with the resume: This ensures that the hiring manager can easily reach you and keeps your application consistent.
  • Greeting: Address the hiring manager by name if possible, showing that you've done your research and are genuinely interested in the position.
  • Achievements in the first paragraph: Highlight your most significant accomplishments relevant to the role, which will grab the hiring manager's attention and encourage them to read further.
  • Cover letter body:
    • Work experience: Detail your relevant experience, emphasizing your successes and the skills you've developed that make you a strong candidate for the position.
    • Skills: Discuss both hard and soft skills, demonstrating how they have contributed to your success in previous roles and how they will benefit the company if you are hired.
    • Why you'd be a good fit: Explain how your values and goals align with those of the company, and emphasize your enthusiasm for the role and the organization.
  • Call to action: Express your interest in discussing your qualifications further in an interview and thank the hiring manager for considering your application. This demonstrates your proactive attitude and leaves a positive impression.

Cover Letter Template:

[Your Name]

[Your Address]

[City, State, Zip Code]

[Email Address]

[Phone Number]

[Today's Date]

[Recipient's Name]

[Recipient's Job Title]

[Company Name]

[Company Address]

[City, State, Zip Code]

Dear [Recipient's Name],

As an experienced accountant with a strong background in [relevant technical skills] and a BA in [relevant discipline] from [big US university], I am excited to apply for the accountant position at [Company Name]. My expertise in financial analysis, auditing, and financial reporting, combined with my excellent communication and organizational skills, make me an ideal candidate for this role.

In my previous position as an accountant at [Previous Company], I managed a portfolio of over 50 clients and helped increase overall efficiency by 15% through implementing new accounting software and streamlining processes. My work experience also includes collaborating with cross-functional teams, managing financial audits, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.

My technical skills include proficiency in [list relevant accounting software and tools], which enable me to perform accurate and efficient financial analysis. Additionally, I possess strong [mention soft skills, such as problem-solving, attention to detail, and time management], allowing me to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of accounting and finance.

I am confident that my combination of education, experience, and enthusiasm for the field of accounting will make me a valuable asset to [Company Name]. I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further in an interview. Thank you for considering my application.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Additional accountant resume tips and tricks

To make your accountant resume stand out, it's essential to showcase your most relevant hard and soft skills, as well as strong action verbs that convey your expertise and accomplishments. Below are lists of top hard skills, soft skills, and action verbs that are relevant for an accountant resume.

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Top skills for your accountant resume:

Top hard skills for your accountant resume

  1. Financial analysis
  2. Financial reporting
  3. GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles)
  4. IFRS (International Financial Reporting Standards)
  5. Budgeting and forecasting
  6. Tax preparation
  7. Payroll management
  8. Accounts payable and receivable
  9. Auditing
  10. Internal controls
  11. Compliance
  12. Cost accounting
  13. Risk management
  14. QuickBooks
  15. Microsoft Excel
  16. ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle)
  17. Data analysis
  18. Financial modeling
  19. Cash flow management
  20. Management accounting

Top soft skills for your accountant resume

  1. Attention to detail
  2. Time management
  3. Problem-solving
  4. Communication
  5. Adaptability
  6. Collaboration
  7. Ethical integrity
  8. Critical thinking
  9. Client relations
  10. Organizational skills
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Top action verbs for your accountant resume

  • Analyzed
  • Managed
  • Streamlined
  • Prepared
  • Reconciled
  • Optimized
  • Forecasted
  • Monitored
  • Implemented
  • Evaluated
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Top bullet points for your accountant resume

  • Streamlined financial reporting processes, reducing month-end closing time by 25% and improving overall accuracy.
  • Implemented new budgeting and forecasting tools, leading to a 15% reduction in annual budget variances.
  • Managed a team of 5 junior accountants, providing guidance and training to improve efficiency and productivity.
  • Successfully identified and resolved $100K in accounting discrepancies, ensuring accurate financial statements.
  • Oversaw a comprehensive internal audit, resulting in the identification of key risk areas and recommendations for improvement.
  • Assisted in the preparation and filing of corporate tax returns, saving the company $50K in potential penalties.
  • Developed and maintained cash flow projection models, helping to optimize working capital and reduce borrowing costs.
  • Conducted cost-benefit analysis for potential investments, contributing to informed decision-making and strategic growth.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams on process improvement initiatives, increasing overall operational efficiency by 10%.
  • Implemented new internal controls to enhance compliance with GAAP and regulatory requirements, minimizing financial risks.
  • Negotiated favorable payment terms with suppliers, leading to a 5% reduction in annual accounts payable expenses.
  • Successfully managed the transition to a new ERP system, resulting in improved data accuracy and streamlined financial processes.
  • Prepared and presented monthly financial reports to senior management, ensuring timely communication of key performance indicators.
  • Coordinated the annual external audit, leading to a clean audit opinion and increased stakeholder confidence.
  • Monitored and analyzed financial performance of business units, providing insights to drive revenue growth and cost reduction initiatives.
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Top quantifiable achievements or work situations for your accountant resume

  • Have you ever implemented new accounting software or tools to increase efficiency and accuracy in financial reporting and analysis?
  • Did you ever lead a cross-functional team on a project to improve financial processes and reduce operational costs within the organization?
  • Have you ever conducted an in-depth financial analysis to identify potential cost-saving measures and increase overall profitability?
  • Were you responsible for managing relationships with external auditors, ensuring compliance with financial regulations and providing required documentation in a timely manner?
  • Have you ever participated in the development of strategic financial plans, including budgeting, forecasting, and long-term financial projections to support company growth?
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Top summaries for your accountant resume

  • Detail-oriented accountant with 7 years of experience in the manufacturing industry, a proven ability to streamline financial processes, and a strong background in cost analysis seeks a position as a Senior Accountant.
  • Analytical accountant with 5 years of experience in the non-profit sector, a demonstrated ability to manage budgets and develop financial forecasts, and a deep understanding of grant management seeks a position as a Financial Analyst.
  • Certified Public Accountant with 10 years of experience in the healthcare industry, expertise in tax preparation and financial planning, and a strong background in implementing internal controls seeks a position as a Tax Manager.
  • Results-driven accountant with 4 years of experience in the technology sector, a proven ability to identify cost-saving opportunities, and a strong background in financial reporting and analysis seeks a position as a Corporate Accountant.
  • Proactive accountant with 6 years of experience in the retail industry, expertise in financial management and budgeting, and a solid background in implementing accounting software solutions seeks a position as a Financial Controller.
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Top certifications for your accountant resume

  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA) - American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
  • Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) - CFA Institute
  • Certified Management Accountant (CMA) - Institute of Management Accountants (IMA)
  • Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) - Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA)
  • Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) - Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA)
  • Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) - Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE)
  • Enrolled Agent (EA) - Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
  • Certified Financial Planner (CFP) - Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards
  • Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA) - Association of International Certified Professional Accountants
  • Accredited Business Accountant (ABA) - Accreditation Council for Accountancy and Taxation (ACAT)

Certifications on resumes are important because they demonstrate your expertise, commitment to professional development, and distinguish you from other candidates. When listing certifications, include the following:

  • Certification name
  • Name of issuer
  • Year of obtainment
  • Location (if applicable)
  • Date of expiration (if applicable)
  • Expected date of obtainment (if applicable)

It's appropriate to add certifications in a dedicated section or within your education section, depending on the resume format you choose. Include certifications that are most relevant to the position you're applying for and that highlight your skills and qualifications.

Accounting resume examples

Explore additional accounting resume samples and guides and see what works for your level of experience or role.

By Experience

Accounting Intern

Even if you're just starting as an Accounting Intern, you can still make an attractive resume by talking about your educational background and achievements. Mention any related courses to Accounting you've taken and your reading of financial statements. Also, discuss any relevant software you've learned to use, such as Excel.
View Accounting Intern Resume

Entry-Level Accountant

As an Entry-Level Accountant, having a strong grasp of financial principles and tax laws is essential. Proficiency in Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), financial software, and mathematics should be highlighted in your resume. Emphasize the impact of your broad accounting knowledge on the company's finances. Instead of merely listing your accounting skills, let potential employers know how you've applied them to improve the financial standing of previous employers. Remember to use the 'Skills-Actions-Results' format when demonstrating your accomplishments.

Junior Cost Accountant

The Junior Cost Accountant role is crucial for a company's financial stability. To increase your chance of securing this position, you need a good understanding of cost accounting principles and systems, including job costing, standard costing, and budgeting. Your application should showcase these skills and any relevant experience. Secondly, emphasize your background in management accounting or financial analysis as it may enhance business profitability. Lastly, don't just list your accounting skills. Illustrate how you have utilized them to benefit a company's bottom line, adhering to the 'Skills-Actions-Results' format. For example, you could say 'improved cost efficiency by...'.

Senior Accountant

As a Senior Accountant, stress your adaptability to changing regulations and accounting practices. Use your resume to exhibit a history of effectively maintaining a company’s financial health. Be sure to describe your management experience with other accountants and how you have implemented improvements in procedures and efficiency.
View Senior Accountant Resume

Senior Tax Accountant

For a Senior Tax Accountant, showcasing your experience with tax legislation, tax return preparation, and auditing could separate you from other candidates. Tell your interviewer how you provided tax accounting support to your previous companies or how you represented a company in front of tax authorities.
View Senior Tax Accountant Resume

By Role

Accounting Analyst

The Accounting Analyst role came out of the broader field of finance, meaning trends in financial analysis can drastically affect the duties and requirements of this role. When applying for this position, highlight your experience and success in using financial analysis tools and methods. Don't just list these skills, but explain how you've used them to better the company’s finance, e.g. 'Increased quarterly profits by...'. Additionally, stress any ability to work with financial reporting systems as these are vital for the role of an Accounting Analyst.
View Accounting Analyst Resume

Accounting Assistant

Accounting Assistants should ensure that their resume highlights their foundational accounting skills and any software they have used, such as Quickbooks or Excel. Evidence of maintaining precise financial records or assisting in the preparation of reports may be a strong selling point. Be sure to include any details that demonstrate your attention to detail and reliability.
View Accounting Assistant Resume

Accounting Supervisor

To be a successful candidate for the Accounting Supervisor position, your resume should demonstrate your leadership skills and experience in managing a team. List instances when you've effectively coordinated accounting activities and improved efficiency or reduced costs through strategic modifications. Evidence of mentorship and strong interpersonal skills may also make your application more compelling.
View Accounting Supervisor Resume

Big 4 Accounting

For those applying to positions within the Big 4 accounting firms, illustrating your ability to handle pressure and large work volumes effectively is essential. Highlight any previous experience with complex audits or high-profile clients. Knowledge of specific regulations, standards or sectors relevant to the role you're applying for can also strengthen your application.
View Big 4 Accounting Resume

Construction Accounting

When it comes to Construction Accounting, the crucial point of differentiation is industry-specific experience. Emphasize your understanding of construction terms and processes, experience with progress billing and job costing on your resume. Personal attributes like excellent attention to detail and experience in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment will be valued.
View Construction Accounting Resume

Corporate Accounting

A Corporate Accountant's resume should demonstrate proficiency in general ledger accounting and experience in internal audits. Be sure to highlight familiarity with corporate finance regulations and reporting standards. Remember to show how these skills contributed to enhancing the corporation’s financial status and improving the efficiency of accounting operations.
View Corporate Accounting Resume

Cost Accounting

In the realm of Cost Accounting, your specialization in cost analysis and reduction should be the star of your resume. Demonstrate your understanding of cost behavior and how you effectively used it to influence management decisions or improve operational efficiency. Likewise, your ability to work with cost accounting software should be made apparent.
View Cost Accounting Resume

CPA

For a CPA, stress your wealth of experience in diverse accounting functions. List any specializations, may it be in taxes, auditing, or management advisory. Always include your valid CPA license number, and do not hesitate to discuss your successful past audits, consultations, or any ethical issues you've solved.
View CPA Resume

Director of Accounting

For the Director of Accounting position, potential employers prefer candidates who can show their proficiency in overseeing accounting operations, strategy formulation, and policy development. Exhibit your successful leadership and cite instances of enhancing procedures that led to positive financial outcomes.
View Director of Accounting Resume

Financial Accounting

As a Financial Accountant, highlighting your experience in preparing financial statements compliant with GAAP and your expertise in public reporting should be your priority. Don't forget to include skills like reconciliation, budgeting, or dealing with financial auditors in your resume. You should unequivocally show your ability to serve as a steward for the company's financial operations.
View Financial Accounting Resume

Forensic Accounting

A Forensic Accountant's resume should present their experience in carrying out financial investigations and their proficiency in using a range of financial software. Emphasize your skills in uncovering financial irregularities, fraud and providing litigation support. If you have specific industry knowledge or certifications, include these details on your resume.
View Forensic Accounting Resume

Full Cycle Accounting

As a Full Cycle Accountant, your proficiency in running all accounting aspects, from entries to reporting, should be the focus of your resume. Make sure to highlight your knowledge in daily entries, journal entries, reconciliation, AP/AR, and preparing financial statements. Details about enhancing the accounting cycle can greatly boost your application.
View Full Cycle Accounting Resume

Functional Accounting

When applying for a Functional Accounting role, prioritize highlighting your expertise in a specific function of accounting. Details about your skills and experience in accounts receivable/payable, auditing, or financial reporting can set your apart. Proven experience in streamlining these functions for efficiency and accuracy is a great selling point.
View Functional Accounting Resume

Fund Accountant

Fund Accountants should shine a spotlight on their skills in managing and analyzing financial details of a fund in their resumes. Make it clear how you've used these skills to ensure regulatory compliance and produce accurate financial reports. Experience with auditing and your ability to deal with high-volume transactions will also be beneficial.
View Fund Accountant Resume

General Ledger Accounting

A General Ledger Accountants' resume should demonstrate a high level of experience with general ledger functions and month-end procedures. Detail your knowledge with reconciliation, journal entries, and financial statement preparation. Highlighting your time management skills will also add value to your resume.
View General Ledger Accounting Resume

Government Accounting

If you're vying to work in Government Accounting, emphasize your knowledge of government financial protocols, regulations, and accounting procedures. Show how your past experiences in preparing financial reports and expense management contributed to government entities' transparency and good governance.
View Government Accounting Resume

Hotel Accounting

In Hotel Accounting, your resume should highlight your understanding of the hospitality industry, from functionalities to financial management. Show your experience in hotel-specific tasks like revenue management and managing operational costs. It could also boost your application if you detail your interaction with other hotel departments and 24/7 availability.
View Hotel Accounting Resume

Management Accounting

For Management Accounting roles, underscore your experience in budgeting, cost management, financial analysis, and strategic planning. Show examples of how you've aided decision-making processes and describe your ability to report findings clearly to non-financial stakeholders. Offer examples of developed metrics that helped in managing a company's financial performance.
View Management Accounting Resume

Oracle Project Accounting

When applying for the Oracle Project Accounting position, detail your experience in using Oracle applications, in particular the Oracle Projects Suite. Provide evidence of how your skills in budgeting, forecasting, and analyzing project financials allowed for more seamless operations. Expertise in the manufacturing, finance, and IT sector will be an added advantage.
View Oracle Project Accounting Resume

Project Accounting

As a Project Accountant, highlight your experience in managing and overseeing the financial health of company projects. Showcase your proficiency in project costings and forecasting, tracking project revenues and expenses, and ensuring timely and accurate billing.
View Project Accounting Resume

Public Accounting

A role in Public Accounting would need the indication of broad accounting skills, knowledge of compliance requirements, and possibly specific industries’ finance knowledge in your resume. Speaking about your public-facing skills, such as management consulting or tax planning, could set you apart. Express how you've served your past clients and made their financial management more efficient.
View Public Accounting Resume

Purchase Accounting

In Purchase Accounting, emphasize your familiarity with M&A accounting procedures and GAAP on your resume. Make sure to highlight your experience in preparing purchase accounting reports and how those helped in company's mergers and acquisitions.
View Purchase Accounting Resume

Tax Accountant

For a Tax Accountant, it is essential to highlight familiarity with tax laws and regulations. If you have successfully assisted a company with tax preparation, audits, and recommendations, include these in your resume's spotlight. Any certifications, such as the CTA, should be proudly displayed.
View Tax Accountant Resume

Onboarding Accountant

The Onboarding Accountant role developed from auditing and budgeting positions, with these practices largely influencing the job globally. To enhance your application for this role, it's crucial to excel in tasks such as keeping track of financial records and balancing accounts. Highlight your experience in business law, auditing, inventory management, and financial statement analysis as these are the foundations of many companies. Putting a spotlight on your accounting experience that positively impacted a company's financial status can also stand you out. Rather than merely listing your accounting skills, demonstrate how they contributed to the company's financial stability like, 'cutting excessive spending by…,' 'increased profit margins by…,' and similar. Always implement the 'Skills-Action-Results' format.

Staff Accountant

When tailoring a resume for a Staff Accountant role, emphasize your proficiency in preparing financial statements, recording transactions, managing accounts payable and receivable, and various software you are familiar with. Evidence of successful compliances and audits can make your application more compelling.
View Staff Accountant Resume

Revenue Tax Accountant

If you're applying for a Revenue Tax Accountant role, it's essential to demonstrate proficiency in taxation and auditing. Outline your knowledge of tax laws, auditing principles, and tax software usage. Don't forget to emphasize your taxation background, detailing how it benefited previous employers. Instead of just listing your tax skills, show their real-world impacts such as how you cut tax liabilities or simplified IRS audits. This 'Skills-Actions-Results' approach will make your application more compelling.
accounting resume example

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Frequently asked questions about accountant resumes

How long should I make my accountant resume?

Your accountant resume should ideally be one to two pages long. Focus on showcasing your most relevant experience, skills, and achievements to make it concise and impactful.

What is the best format for an accountant resume?

The best format for an accountant resume is either the reverse-chronological format, highlighting your work history, or the combination format, which balances work history and skills. Choose the format that best showcases your strengths and is tailored to the job you're applying for.

Which accountant skills are most important to add to your resume?

Both hard and soft skills are important for an accountant resume. Prioritize technical skills such as financial analysis, auditing, and tax preparation, as well as soft skills like communication, attention to detail, and problem-solving.

How can I make my accountant resume stand out?

To make your accountant resume stand out, tailor it to the job description, use strong action verbs, and showcase quantifiable achievements. Additionally, include any relevant certifications, extra sections, and a well-crafted summary statement.

Should I include a cover letter with my accountant resume?

Yes, it's a good idea to include a cover letter with your accountant resume. A well-written cover letter demonstrates your motivation, highlights your key skills, and shows your extra effort in the application process.

How can I showcase my achievements on an accountant resume?

Use bullet points to highlight your achievements and quantify your results with numbers, percentages, or other relevant metrics. This approach showcases the impact you've made in previous roles and helps demonstrate your value to potential employers.