We asked our database recently on Any Answers, what they like most about being an accountant. We picked our top 10 answers from the responses – and here they are.
1.) Clients
Love or hate the majority of them, you’re always going to have your ‘pet’ few. One feedback from an Accountant said how much she loves the diverse range of people he comes across.
2.) Solving Problems
Problem solving is undoubtedly satisfying, and got the vote of three members on the thread as to why they love their job.
3.) Being Your Own Boss
While working in industry or for another firm may not guarantee this, there’s no doubt accountancy gives you the option to be your own boss by going into practice alone.
4.) Break the Mould
mrme broke the mould in his family with his choice to become an accountant rather than a tradesman. Accountancy can open you up to a whole range of career options to ‘break the mould’ including the ability to specialise in a diverse range of areas or go down the industry/practice route.
5.) Easy (?) Money?
Okay, there are lots of accountants who would really argue against this. But some members on the Any Answers thread seem to feel that they get very well paid for doing a job that – at times – requires minimal effort. But we bet they won’t be saying that come self assessment season.
6.) Helping Struggling Businesses
There’s nothing like turning around the financials of a struggling business and seeing them thrive a year on because of your hard work and efforts.
7.) Own Practice = More Family Time
Another perk of running your own practice, especially from home or close to it, means more time with your loved ones (family, pets or your favourite stamp collection – whatever floats your boat)
8.) Self Assessment Season
While some members fear, loathe and even downright despite this season, others such as Katie Bladen relish the challenge. The feelings of relief and achievement when everything gets submitted before the deadline can make you realise all the hard work was worth it – especially if you’ve got clients who appreciate it.
9.) Charity Work
“Chris” said his most fulfilling, rewarding time as an accountant was working for a tax charity. Many accountants get involved in charity work, from volunteering their skills at local sports clubs and churches to raising money for a local cause.
10.) Accounting Humor
Unsurprisingly, no one quite gets the unique accounting humor quite like accountants. They’re the only people who can truly appreciate Monty Python’s Lion Tamer sketch, and make endless puns out of assets and liabilities.
