Study Zone

Making the case for AAT

Lisa Dendle of recruiter Walker Dendle tackles your workplace issues. Here she offers advice on how to educate your boss to ensure they understand the importance of training – for both parties

QI was shocked when I applied for a job recently and the employer admitted that he had never heard of the AAT. He said that he was only looking for someone to do his payroll and bookkeeping, but surely everyone should know what an accounting technician does.

A It is a shame that the employer in question was not familiar with your qualification as it represents a leading vocational qualification in accounting sponsored by the professional accounting bodies and is widely accepted around the globe. As you will know, accounting technicians work at various levels from junior clerk to senior finance executives and, assuming that you also have the prerequisite experience that the client seeks, you should easily be able to undertake the job. It sounds as if the employer had concerns that you would be suited to a more senior or technical role so you should also make sure that your CV accurately reflects your level of skill and experience. If you are seeking work through an agency, your consultant should also be able to educate the employer on the criteria and objectives of the AAT qualification.
If you are successful you could request an information pack from AAT for your new employer, or refer your boss to the AAT website – www.aat.org.uk – so that he can become more familiar with your qualification.
Alternatively, if you are still interviewing you could take a factsheet with you to demonstrate the fact that AAT offers practical accounting skills in both payroll administration and bookkeeping to avoid repetition of the confusion.

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