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PQ magazine for part qualified accountants.
Read the latest web issue here, if you like what you see sign up today |
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The state we're in... |
There are a lot of mixed messages out there about what the UK jobs market is like for newly qualifieds. So we thought we would get the experts in to find out what is really going on |
Nicola Waizeneker, Michael Page Finance
The market is increasingly competitive, particularly for recently qualified accountants.
There are numerous firms recruiting at this level, but those who are looking for the perfect candidate are not so willing to compromise. You will need to make sure that you present yourself as that perfect candidate. You only get one chance to make an impression, and there are many things that you can do to make sure that you put yourself ahead of the competition.
Preparation is key, and starts from the moment that you start your search. Your CV has never been more important; it is your chance to impress initially, and get that all-important first interview. You need to make sure that if the client is asking for something that you have done it is detailed on your CV, and that you outline your relevant achievements that demonstrate your potential 'value-add' to their business.
When it comes to the interview, you will need to know all about the company concerned. Highlight the relevant experience you have for the role, using specific examples to back it up. Finally, always ask questions at the end of the interview – it shows enthusiasm and interest for the role, the people and the business. Clients want to recruit people who want their role, not just any role.
Roland Seddon, Hays Accountancy & Finance
While recruitment activity in the accountancy and finance sector as a whole has slowed down, the market for newly qualified accountants has remained resilient. The commercial sector, particularly insurance, is still a good source of opportunities for NQs and there is also a steady demand for good calibre candidates with internal audit experience. Requirements in practice have changed and there is now greater activity in the restructuring and insolvency sectors, compared to last year when corporate finance and transaction services specialists were in greater demand. Although budgets are being scrutinised, the public sector continues to provide a steady stream of opportunities for NQs, from both a practice and commercial background.
NQs are being more flexible in terms of salary expectations, industry and location – the best candidates are finding jobs as many companies are still on the hunt for talent. However, given the increased competition in the marketplace, employers are being more specific about their selection criteria. With this in mind, job-seekers need to sell themselves to prospective employers and prepare meticulously for each role they go for. A CV that displays evidence of career progression and a proactive approach to work will impress, but it must be presented in an easy-to-read and consistent format. Don't be afraid to highlight transferable skills on your CV – these will make you more employable – and put a value on your achievements. During the interview itself, candidates must have clear examples of situations where they have demonstrated the required technical and behavioural competencies, which they are able to discuss when answering questions.
Giles Cameron, Walker Dendle
While the general economic conditions have been pretty tough over the past year, there are some challenging opportunities for NQs seeking a new career move. These roles are with clients who have either managed to weather some of the recent storms or in organisations which, while facing challenges of lower revenues, are looking to get a better grip on financial information coming out of the business in order to manage their costs and maximise profitability. These tend to be financial or business analyst positions with either responsibility for central cost functions, such as IT or marketing, or supporting key business streams and divisions. They offer strong interface with the business and require individuals who can influence decision-making and help managers achieve the goals for the area, through sound financial management.
The key area for NQs to focus upon is to articulate what value you can bring to an employer, and provide examples of influencing skills or the ability to improve decision making. An employer in a challenging environment will want to ensure they can bring someone on board who has previously demonstrated leadership ability to make changes over and above any internal options they may have.
Now, more than ever, a strong CV with clear achievements is vital in making a good first impression, together with well researched interview preparation and clear examples of what impact you can bring to the client.
Daryl Mason, Hewitson Walker
We are finding that the market for newly qualifieds is still reasonable but that there is more competition for roles at this level than previously. This is because candidates with a number of years' post-qualification experience are going for lower-level roles, obviously due to market constraints at the higher level. It is more common to see clients taking on more experienced candidates who have broader experience for these roles and could maybe take on more. The good news for newly qualified candidates is that the bulk of the jobs still seem to be at this salary level. |
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| [«all Career Advice] |
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