How can I get into the accounting field, without experience in it?
Asked by Lori S
I am currently a college student getting my BS in Accounting and I am desperately trying to get in an entry level such as accounts payable, accounts receviable, or even as a bookkeeper. I have been stuck in retail all my life and I want to get into accounting. I know the basics of accounting and a little more too.

Best Answer:
you don't say if you are attending school during the day or at night. If you are attending during the day, focus on your studies and try to get into a CPA program. Pass that and you join a public accounting firm for a min. 2 years. Learn all aspects of the audit and you can stay or move into private industry. Either way, its a win-win for you as CPA's are in greatest demand and highest on the incoming wage scale. On the other hand, if you are taking evening classes, then by all means switch out of retail. There are 2 basic approaches, go to specific company web sites and check their job postings. Not sure of companies in your area? Go to the web and type in "companies located in NYC" for example. The second approach is to find employment agencies specializing in entry level positions in your area. You can locate them rhe same way as the companies or you can look thru your local newspaper. The agency fee is typically paid by the employer, don't settle on one that wants a ffrom you.

If your college has an accounting major, accounting firms probably recruit for entry level positions there. Talk to your department and the placement office about getting the schedule of on-campus interviews.
Answered by Bob

Look into public accounting. Get good grades, that is key. And consider going for your CPA. I recommend the Becker Review Course it helped me pass the exam my first time through each section. Also, find out if your school has a Beta Alpha Psi program, it is an accounting business fraternity and ofter accounting firms will recruit directly to the fraternity, plus it looks great on a resume.
Answered by Jacy_2002

wait until you get your degree - you won't really get anything until you complete college. everyone starts out with no experience - don't just settle for being a bookkeeper - you can do that with a 2 yr degree - you'll never make a lot of money though - BS in acctg should start you in the 30's as a staff accountant - could be general ledger work, AP , AR or mix - depends on what each employer is looking for
Answered by Dr. Deth