We recently caught up with an comptroller who answer some residential area questions on what it ’s truly similar to work in their theatre of operations — and have ’s just say , it ’s not what you would expect !
We spoke to Ting Song , Certified Public Accountant ( CPA ) , to help pull back the curtain on what it ’s like working in account statement . She is specialize in the landing field of Private Equity and Hedge Fund ( Alternative Investments ) accounting and operations . That entail that she does the accounting for investments that her company is make into private equity firms and hedge funds . Before particularise in Alternative Investment Fund Accounting , she run in non - profit accounting and consulting . She experience the 2023 CPA to Watch Award and has been named as one of the Top 100 Accountants of Los Angeles for 2023 by Los Angeles Business Journal . She is also a board penis of Association of Accounting and Finance Professionals in Business at Institute of Management Accountants Los Angeles Chapter and was nominate to be part of ACG Global Rising Star Program in 2022 . Whew , speak about an expert !
Alright, let’s talk numbers! The most common question we received was about the mathematical requirements needed to be an accountant. Specifically, is proficiency in advanced mathematics essential, or up to what math level do you need to become an accountant?
Being an comptroller is more about understanding the voice communication of accounting and being able to make decisions free-base on the fiscal information available . You do not need to be exceptionally good at math , especially in the historic period of technology , where information processing system can assist with calculation . The most important qualities for accountant admit aid to item , truehearted encyclopaedism power , and the capacity to collaborate with the team .
So, considering the skills and qualities you’ve mentioned are key for accountants, what’s the typical journey like in terms of salary progression for someone in this field?
It depends on the company and industries you work in . mostly , you experience a earnings bulge when you become a handler or start get by a squad . If you are a open expert in sure areas , you’re able to also receive additional pay for that . During busy seasons , work in accountancy can be demanding sometimes , but that is balanced by the tractableness that we have during the rest of the class . There are opportunities to work remotely while abroad , travel internationally for business , and curate hours that work for you as long as you discuss it with your coach .
Speaking of expertise, with advancements in technology constantly reshaping industries, how do you see these changes impacting the accounting profession? And what skills are essential for accountants to stay competitive?
It has subjugate the layer of manual work needed and improved efficiency in the method of accounting industry . learn about new technology developments and tools is cardinal to stay militant in the industry . There are many workshops and conferences you could attend to learn about new technologies and some of those workshops are also qualified for Continuing Professional Education ( CPE ) cite . pro can use these credits from specialised training to count towards certification program that can support your marketability and brand edifice .
It sounds like staying updated with these technological advancements indeed plays a factor in accounting. Additionally, many accountants emphasize the significance of networking and maintaining professional relationships. How do you see these connections making a difference in your journey?
Networking is of the essence in account statement . controller typically shape in teams , so being a team player and cultivating good professional relationships undoubtedly aids in one ’s career advancement . you may also begin connection by go to method of accounting shop and conferences . Volunteering at non - profit organizations in the accounting field is another bully way of life to expand your connection .
Well, in the world of accounting, it seems there’s no ‘I’ in ‘team’ either. Given your insight into the importance of networking and teamwork, if you could hop into a time machine back to your college days, what changes or additional steps would you take to better prepare yourself for a career in accounting?
I would recommend getting an internship , as working in the industry is very different from what you find out in school day . If I could go back in time and intern again , I would take advantage of the opportunities to connection and ask more questions . I would also ask if I could shadow more departments and schedule one - on - ones with every team member . to boot , if you want to act on the certified public accountant path , I would suggest call for the certified public accountant examination while in school , as it leaves you more clock time to study for them versus when working full - time .
You’ve given us some great advice for aspiring accountants! And for your final question, how do you personally measure success in your career?
Everyone delimitate success more or less differently . For myself , success means realize advance , stepping out of my comfort zone , or learning raw things — things within my control , as opposed to external factors like promotions or salary raises .
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