How to find work experience

If you’re seeking a career in accounting and finance, you might wonder how you can stand out in a highly competitive job market. One way to differentiate yourself is through gaining relevant work experience. Not only will this show potential employers your skills in action, but it will also help you to develop your practical knowledge.

But where do you start?

Networking

Networking is a great way to meet people in your industry and gain potential experience. You can start this process by creating a LinkedIn profile and connecting with like-minded individuals in the accounting and finance profession.

Through LinkedIn and a bit of searching online, you’ll also be able to find relevant networking events where you can meet other professionals and gain insight into the world of accounting and finance. Always aim to introduce yourself to others and ask any questions, you never know how valuable your connections will be!

Websites such as Eventbrite can be a great starting point to find networking events in person or online for your interests.

Mentorship

Many successful professionals talk about the importance of having a mentor to help you with your career. Conduct some research into who inspires you, or find people who are in the position that you want to be in and reach out. So many people will be happy to offer you guidance, and tips and share their experience which can help you find work experience that’s right for you.

To find a mentor, it’s important to know what you’re looking for and what you’d like someone to mentor you with. However, this can develop throughout your relationship between yourself and your mentor. Platforms like LinkedIn are great to connect with others in your field, and you may choose to reach out to someone you find inspiring online. However, if you’re not feeling too confident about reaching out to people online, a good starting point is to find a mentorship platform, such as MentorCruise, Meet a Mentor, or One Million Mentors.

Internships

Internships are a great starting point for anyone looking to venture into a new industry as you’ll gain plenty of experience while developing your industry knowledge. Through an internship, you may feel less pressure or anxiety around being great at your job, as the workplace will be aware that you’re just starting and aiming to gain work experience. There are many cases where an internship has led to permanent employment, so if you enjoy your experience, it can turn into a great place to grow and progress your career.

You can search for internships online through many job advertising websites such as Prospects, TotalJobs, Indeed, and even LinkedIn.

Volunteering

We know that it can be difficult looking for work when you have little experience. Considering volunteering opportunities can help build your experience while doing some good in the community.

Look for opportunities at non-profit organisations and community groups that need accounting or finance assistance. Although you won’t be earning money from your work, you’ll be gaining valuable experience that will help you stand out from others when you apply for work.

You can either approach charities and organisations yourself, or use a website such as GOV.UK Volunteer.

Freelance work

It’s important to keep in mind that some qualifications may require you to partake in relevant work experience which may not include freelance work. But, if you’re struggling to find that experience, you may wish to consider freelance work while you build up your portfolio and CV.

Consider offering your services as a freelancer to small businesses or individuals who need assistance with bookkeeping, tax preparation, or other accounting-related tasks. Your confidence will develop while you gain the opportunity to apply your knowledge to your work.

There are many organisations online that can help you find volunteering opportunities. To name a couple, Do IT or the National Council of Voluntary Organisations are great places to try.

Start your accounting career with Eagle

At Eagle, we offer flexible online subscription courses for AAT, ACCA, and CIMA that will help you get started in your career. By subscribing, you will gain access to the full course for the qualification that you’re studying, as well as a personal mentor and tutor support when needed.

For a limited time only, when you purchase a yearly subscription plan, you will also receive a £25 Love2shop gift card that you can use at over 90 UK brands.