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24 Accountant Resume Examples That Worked in 2024

Best for jobs requiring a traditional resume

A professional resume like this one communicates a more formal tone, but it’s unique enough to still leave a favorable first impression.

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Like this template? Customize this resume and make it your own with the help of our Al-powered suggestions, accent colors, and modern fonts.

Accountant Resume

• Accountant Resumes by Experience
• Accountant Resumes by Role

Writing Your Accountant Resume

A business is only as valuable as its finances, so successful organizations are built on a foundation of solid accounting practices. To be a successful accountant, you need to be diligent, organized, and an expert with numbers and financial data.

However, to get a role as an accountant, you need to rely on a completely different skill set:  resume writing . (And let’s not forget about cover letter writing! )

That’s where we come in. We’ve reviewed countless accountant resumes, distilling what works and what doesn’t into  24 accountant resume examples that you can use to help you get your next accounting job in 2024!

or download as PDF

Why this resume works

• Our special tip: avoid any images or graphics. Before a recruiter or hiring manager looks at your resume, a computer scans it for keywords, and graphics are hard for software to read. 
• We’d also recommend putting your experience in reverse-chronological order. By putting your most recent job first, employers will see how you’ve progressed in your career.
• Include the name of the company you’re applying to, the position you’re seeking, and what you hope to achieve in your next role.

Accounting Intern Resume

• When you lack paid work experience, use relevant academic or personal projects to showcase your skills, passion, and capabilities.

Accounting Assistant Resume

• In this resume, the candidate carried out a simulated audit of a fictional company and showcased multiple skills that will help them be a better accounting assistant. If you have similar experiences to talk about, you want to add them to your accounting assistant resume .

Entry-Level Accountant Resume

• Because of your limited background in accounting, don’t worry about trying to extend or fluff your minimal experience.
• Instead,  list any work experience and highlight transferrable skills , like written communication, data analysis, and research.
• Try following a  resume outline  to help you organize your thoughts and ensure you’ve put everything you need onto a single sheet of paper.
• Once you’ve completed the outline, you can use a  resume template  to format your content correctly and make it look great, too.

Junior Cost Accountant Resume

• Using a  resume objective  can be a great decision if you’re having trouble filling the page or trying to provide hiring managers with more context as to why you want the job. 
• But please be cautious and  double-check your resume  before submitting an application!
• Imagine submitting your resume for a position at Instacart and realizing you left the name of another target company in your resume objective. Facepalm anyone?

Junior Accountant Resume

• A ChatGPT resume builder can help you highlight your past accomplishments in any roles or projects that are related to finance or show your knowledge/ability to use an accounting tool. Personalize the objective as much as possible to convey why you’re so passionate about getting hired!

Senior Accountant Resume

• You can further support your work by adding metrics to  show how you’ve helped the company , especially when it comes to revenue.
• But remember that even a spellcheck system misses things, so ask a colleague to review your resume! You’ll be amazed at what they’ll catch before you turn in your application.

General Ledger Accountant Resume

• In your general ledger accountant resume, use a credible title such as “Certified Management Accountant (CMA).” Not only does this convey that you’re better than the average accountant in creating reports, but it also shows your dedication to the career at an early stage.

Project Accountant Resume

• Ready to move your resume from the backlog to the done folder? First, let’s embellish it – use a different color to distinguish the header, and then choose a larger and legible font for section subheadings. You can even bolden them to improve visibility and make the resume easier to scan.

Senior Tax Accountant Resume

• For your work history section, use numbers (and percentages, too) to back up your vast experience as a senior tax accountant. Take a look at how Kevin capitalizes on this strategy – Directing a team of six in conducting in-depth analysis…, …reducing errors by 12%, and improving financial reporting accuracy to a rating of 9 out of 10- effectively presenting himself as an outcome-oriented expert.

Payroll Accountant Resume

• Certificates like Certified Public Accountant (CPA) prove that you possess the necessary financial skills , knowledge, and experience to apply for this role! Don’t be too overconfident though. Ensure you back your certification with performance metrics that depict you as a diligent and hard worker.

Accounting Analyst Resume

• As you tailor your accounting analyst resume hoping to get the job, include your measurable impact in expediting accounts, invoices, and response to ad-hoc request processing times.

Fund Accountant Resume

• Felix’s example is the best answer to that question. Everything is displayed for the recruiting team to see and make a quick decision. Follow this lead to boost the chances of your application sailing through.

Accounting Specialist Resume

Cost Accountant Resume

• What was your impact in similar or related roles? Tap into you quantifiable achievements, such as accuracy rates, reduction in operational expenses, and workflow improvements.

Staff Accountant Resume

• Beyond just your education section, you can include your progress in a  resume objective  or a  resume summary .
• A great way to do this is through the use of action verbs like “owned,” “led,” and “advised.”
• It’s also a good idea to  show how you’ve made a positive difference  in the company. Use metrics to strut your stuff!
• For example, did you increase revenue or efficiency? Discuss it with numbers and percentages that show your impact.

Forensic Accountant Resume

• Unlike a  resume objective , a summary statement focuses on leveraging the abilities you’ve learned throughout your career.
• Make sure your summary statement includes your years of experience in accounting and the company to which you’re applying (plus the job title). 
• Start by putting your work experience in reverse-chronological order, meaning that your most recent work experience will be listed at the top of the page.
• Then you can consider things like alignment, color, and consistency. Whatever you do, make sure your resume is easy to read at a glance!

Financial Analyst Accountant Resume

• Have you joined or started a group for accountants? Maybe you’ve written a personal finance book? Or perhaps you occasionally discuss financial trends at events outside of work? These are on-point examples of using your skills in unique ways, so they’re perfect resume components.
• Focus on including projects and volunteer experience that can demonstrate essential skills (like collaboration and communication). 
• Look for similar structures, word usage, and metrics to see how you can make your resume pop.

Management Accountant Resume

• Make sure that your  management accountant resume  shows your most relevant experience. Include your most significant accomplishments, like if you’ve led any projects or saved your company a lot of money.
• Although your goal is to show your most relevant work, having a cohesive career progression is more important. Employers want to see that you’ve been consistently working.
• Look for specific skill keywords and responsibilities listed in the job description and incorporate them into your work experience and skills section to make the best impact.

Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Resume

• To keep to a single page, make your bullet points short. Ideally, every point should be  one sentence  and a  maximum of three lines long .
• List accomplishments and achievements by all means, but don’t clutter your space with empty adjectives or adverbs. Words like “successfully” and “as needed” are generally assumed, so leave them out.
• Certifications need their own section, but you don’t need to add much more than the name of your certificate. You can include the organization that offers the certificate, but most hiring managers will know that information already, so don’t stress about it.

Onboarding Accountant Resume

• However, your  resume is not your cv . As hard as it is to break up with your old jobs, it’s for the best. The best resumes include just three to six of your most relevant work experience roles. 
• Put yourself in the shoes of the hiring team reviewing 100+ resumes. What work experience would stand out and be the most relevant for the position?
• And if you’re worried about forgetting or losing information from your work history that could be relevant later on, don’t sweat it. You can create a separate document with a “master list” of work experience that you can pull from for different jobs.

Accounting Clerk Resume

• Think of the skills section of your resume as a peek into your technical prowess with accounting software. Any tools that help you do your job better are worth adding to this part of your accounting clerk resume .

Tax Accountant Resume

• In this resume example, the candidate’s last job was as a tax accountant—the same position they’re applying to. Putting it at the top highlights what you’ve been able to achieve at your previous job.

Public Accounting Resume

• Do you hold a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certification? If you’ve completed your CPA, it’s proof that you have a license and the knowledge to provide accounting services to the public.

Related resume guides

• Bank Teller
• Accounts Payable
• Financial Analyst

As an accountant, you know that precision matters. You’re expected to be an analytical expert who can produce reliable research and solve complex legal and financial problems. So, think of your resume not only as a place to highlight your experience but also as a place to demonstrate your attention to detail and high standard of work.

Boosting your resume’s potential requires special attention to these four areas: 

• Listing accounting skills 
• Formatting your accountant resume properly
• Quantifying your previous impact
• Customizing your resume to each job

List the right accountant skills

When recruiters post an  accountant job description , it’s not unheard of for them to receive upwards of 100 resumes. With the sheer number of applicants, companies can’t carefully review every accountant’s application. The applicant tracking system (ATS) software helps weed out applicants before a recruiter reviews them, which saves time and gets rid of candidates without the right experience.

Applicant tracking systems work by using algorithms that match keywords from the company to keywords in your resume. So even if you’re highly qualified for a job, your resume may be thrown out if it doesn’t include the right keywords. To avoid this, you need to know  how  to include job-appropriate  skills on your resume  (keywords). 

What are the right skills? The right skills will vary depending on the accountant role. Read this excerpt from a sample accountant job description and see if you can pick up on the essential skills: 

Greenhill is seeking a certified accountant who can tackle every level of the accounting process, from balancing ledgers to researching the law and analyzing data to ensure efficient and effective operations. This position is ideal for candidates who are jacks of all trades! Must possess strong public speaking and collaboration skills while demonstrating initiative and the capacity to conduct independent work. 

Based on this small sample, we can create a list of essential skills customized for the job.  You do  not  want to take exact words from the job description or lie about your skill level . Instead, use the accountant job description as a jumping-off point to think about the most relevant skills you possess: 

• Accounting applications: Quickbooks, ERP, Concur, Taxjar
• Tax accounting
• Expense reporting
• State law compliance
• Accounts payable/receivable
• Collaboration and communication
• Data analysis and research presentations

On other accountant job postings, you can expect to see different skills emphasized, such as:

Choose the best resume format

It’s not just about  what  you write on your accountant resume; it’s about  how  you write it. Your  resume format  is important for ensuring that your resume is visually appealing, easy to read, and easy for the ATS to recognize. For these reasons, we always suggest the reverse-chronological format to keep your most recent job experience listed at the top of your resume, but there are some other aspects of resume formatting you need to know.

Here are some other essential elements of resume formatting that you should pay attention to:

• Resume length:  Always ensure your resume is a full, single-sided page.
• Bullet points:  Break up large text sections about your work experience with classic round bullet points.
• Avoiding icons/images:  The ATS does not seem to appreciate icons/images; neither will recruiters.
• Listing the title of the position you’re seeking:  Specialize your resume for each job you apply for to show respect and genuine interest in the job. (This is especially useful for a company that may be hiring for multiple positions.)
• Objective/Summary:  Only use one when necessary (hang tight—we’re about to cover this in-depth).

Remember these formatting tips, and you’ll be confident that your resume is ATS-friendly and easy to read for recruiters. 

Understand the elusive resume objective and summary

All right, back to the objective and summary.  A resume objective  is one of the most misunderstood sections of your resume. Most people think objectives are outdated and pointless, but that’s only the case if you don’t tailor them and keep them short. 

But what exactly is a resume objective? And what’s the difference between that and a resume summary? Let’s dive in!

A resume objective and summary statement are both short, two to three-sentence paragraphs at the top of a resume to express your interest in a position or a brief career synopsis. Both require customization and should be avoided if you don’t plan on writing a new one for every job application. 

However, these two types of paragraphs differ in how they communicate interest in the job. An objective describes  the value you’ll add to a company  and  why you want the job . Objectives are best suited to accountants who are just starting their careers or going through a career change (like from a staff accountant to an accounts payable specialist). 

A  resume summary  highlights  your past work experience , leveraging it to  prove your qualifications and skills . Because the summary relies on many past job experiences, it’s only recommended for senior accountants with many years of industry experience. 

Let’s work through a few examples together, so you can better understand all the moving parts: 

Poor resume objective:  Years of experience in the industry, looking for a full-time job in the accounting field with benefits. 

• There are multiple issues at play here. First, it’s uninformative. The applicant doesn’t list anything that provides concrete evidence of their skills. Secondly, it’s not specific. They don’t mention a particular job title, applicable skills, or the company to which they’re applying. Lastly, this candidate is only focused on what the job will do  for   them . You need to mention why you’ll be an asset to the company, not what the job will provide for you personally.

Better resume objective:  Detailed junior accountant with 4+ years of experience working for Big Four accounting firms. Seeking an opportunity as a staff accountant at a smaller-scale operation like Fender Co., where my specializations in optimizing pricing through software adoption and systems streamlining would positively impact sales. 

• This resume objective makes the case that the applicant is valuable to the company by highlighting relevant skills and years of experience. Furthermore, it’s customized to the specific job the candidate is seeking, which is a major green flag for employers. 

Poor summary statement:  Experience as an accountant for 3 businesses. My role, which was providing organized, detailed work for all 3 companies, positively impacted the companies. 

• This statement is vague and confusing, not to mention it’s poorly worded. Would you trust this person with your company’s financial accounts? 

Better summary statement:  Data-driven certified accountant with specialized work in small and mid-size businesses for 22 years. Dedicated to providing services that adhere to GAAP standards while optimizing operations and financial performance. Expertise in many types of accounting software relevant to business size, including Xero, QuickBooks, Zoho, and SAP. Experience supervising and collaborating across cross-functional teams and departments while increasing ROI by 5%+ YTD. 

• This summary statement provides specific metrics, specialized skills, and a job title. It’s a great example of a strong statement that would impress a hiring team. 

Quantify your positive impact as an accountant

If you want to prove to a company that you’re an excellent accountant, you’ll want to focus on numbers. Quantifying your impact on your accountant resume provides concrete proof that you’re an asset to the company.

Fortunately, as an accountant, there are many ways to quantify your impact, such as:

• Internal company operations:  Have you worked with company executives to propose financial incentives to improve employee retention? Have you instituted software adoption that reduced error rates? 
• Leadership:  Do you manage, mentor, or collaborate with a team? Do you work across several departments? 
• Work with vendors:  Do you assess vendor invoicing or review vendor statements? Do you manage accounts payable for vendors? 
• Clients:  How many clients do you advise if you work with individual clients? How long have you retained these clients? 
• Revenue:  How much revenue does the company you work for generate? How many assets do you oversee? How much have you saved in potential penalty costs? 
• Reductions in error rates:  Have you reduced errors during employment at your past jobs? Do you use specific types of software to minimize mistakes? 

Based on the above, check out these examples that demonstrate how metrics can fuel your bullet points: 

• Proactively identified and communicated potential problem areas related to a client’s reporting issue, saving the client $2K+ in penalty fees
• Supported management in executing an employee equity compensation plan to improve employee retention by 11%
• Led a team of 2 junior accountants, providing mentorship and feedback through weekly 1:1 sessions
• Reconciled vendor statements in QuickBooks, investigating and correcting any discrepancies within 48 hours 

Optimize your accountant resume for each job

Unfortunately, you can’t just have one copy of your resume that you submit for every accountant job application. Every application deserves a tailored resume.

With the job description in view, these are the areas you’ll need to pay special attention to:

• Objective/summary statement:  Remember how we encouraged you to include specific company names? One of an applicant’s worst mistakes is failing to change the company name on multiple job applications. Make sure you read over your statement (if included) before submitting your resume, changing the job title, skills, and company name.
• Skills:  To customize your skills section, read the job description. Often, hiring managers will overtly say what skills are important for the specific accounting job (but be careful not to plagiarize). 
• Job description bullet points:  Are you applying to a job that needs you to interface with clients? Or maybe you’ll be working behind the scenes with data? Think about how you can shift how you discuss your work experience to highlight what’s important for each particular job. 

We know it’s frustrating to focus on customizations when you want to submit multiple applications in a short amount of time. Consider creating a document with a master list of job description bullet points and skills, sorted into groups based on the skills you need to highlight (e.g., one section that demonstrates your accuracy, another for client interactions, another for public speaking, etc.). Then, you can pick and pull things from this document to create fully customized resumes in no time. 

For now, we think you’ll find something to help you get started on your accountant resume, no matter the exact role: 

Accountant resume 

• Do you have experience in general ledger (GL) accounting? 
• Remember, you don’t need to include all of these accounting skills in each position, but they must be covered at least once somewhere on your accountant resume. 

Senior accountant resume 

• Underscore things like extensive improvements in efficiency rates, accuracy, and year-to-year financial growth. 
• Have you collaborated with upper management to set company-wide standards or implement internal policies or financial work incentives? 
• Highlight your ability to step into leadership and mentorship roles. 

Accounts payable resume 

• Hone in on what matters by discussing payment processing and review, tracking business expenses (such as vendor invoices), and ensuring GL and GAAP compliance. 
• Highlight your attention to detail and how it has saved revenue for companies you’ve worked for in the past.

Entry-level accountant resume 

• You can leverage almost any job position to highlight particularly relevant skills in accounting. For example, a restaurant server can still balance payments, check receipts against bills, etc. 
• Read the job description carefully, noting what skills are most important to the hiring team and emphasizing your capacity to work in accounting based on their requirements. 

Staff accountant resume

• Your staff accountant resume should focus on general ledger maintenance/oversight, tax revenue billing, accounts payable/receivable, reports, and general record-keeping. 
• Don’t forget to showcase your potential for job advancement down the road by highlighting any aspects in which you provided management/supervisory work. 

Final takeaway for improving your accountant resume

The hardest part of writing your accountant resume is getting started, so congratulate yourself on starting your resume journey! You’re one step closer to creating your best-ever accounting resume. We’ve laid out all the essential tips, including optimizing your skills section, formatting, metrics, and resume customizations, so you can write an amazing resume in no time. 

We also have a host of tools to make resume writing easier. See how your resume stacks up against our AI-powered tips. Or, if it’s time to  write your resume  for the first time, you can use our  resume builder  with built-in formatting standards and corresponding recommendations to keep the process stress-free, easy, and quick—leaving you time also to craft a killer  accountant cover letter  for your dream role. 

No matter what stage you’re at, we’re here to help, and we wish you the best of success!

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34 Accountant Resume Examples - Here's What Works In 2024

Accountants are key players in the daily operations of most businesses. we cover what you need to know to land an accounting job in 2023 (google docs and pdfs attached)..

Practically all businesses need to do some form of accounting. Companies typically manage their finances by monitoring cash flow and keeping records of transactions. In many cases, they also analyze financial data to gain insights about the health of the business. Accountants specialize in providing these financial services. Their duties can overlap with those of a financial analyst -- one major difference is that accountants focus on everyday operations, whereas financial analysts provide big-picture insights and recommendations based on company performance and market conditions over time. In either case, these professionals perform vital work for businesses. Accounting job prospects are expanding and are not likely to disappear anytime soon -- by 2029, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that accounting jobs will grow by 4%. Most accountants are detail-oriented, conscientious, and excellent at working with numbers. If you’re seeking an accounting job, you need a resume that shows you have the right skills for the job. What does it take to build a stellar accounting resume in 2023? Here are some templates to follow that could increase your odds of getting hired.

Accountant Resume Templates

Jump to a template:

• Accounting Clerk
• Accounting Manager
• Senior Accountant / Accounting Executive
• Entry Level Accountant
• Staff Accountant
• Cost Accountant
• Payroll Accountant
• Accounting Assistant
• Tax Accountant
• Accounting Specialist
• Junior Accountant
• Project Accountant
• Public Accountant
• Fund Accountant
• Senior Tax Accountant
• Property Accountant
• Experienced Accountant
• Construction Accountant
• Fixed Asset Accountant
• Corporate Accountant
• Revenue Accountant
• Chief Accounting Officer
• Director of Accounting

Jump to a resource:

• Keywords for Accountant Resumes

Accountant Resume Tips

• Action Verbs to Use
• Bullet Points on Accountant Resumes
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Related Finance Resumes

Get advice on each section of your resume:

Template 1 of 34: Accountant Resume Example

An accountant is a financial professional who keeps track of an organization’s transaction history, including costs and income. They evaluate a company’s financial performance and provide reports to stakeholders. Additionally, an accountant must issue employee payments, record bank statements, and issue taxes. You should demonstrate your impact on the bottom line in your accountant resume. Accountants can help organizations improve their operations, reduce risks, and generate more profit. You can use this as a reference as to what metrics and accomplishments to include in your resume.

We're just getting the template ready for you, just a second left.

Tips to help you write your Accountant resume in 2024

   highlight your knowledge of relevant (and recent) accounting regulations on your resume..

Accountants should provide accurate and transparent financial information to the government, investors, and banks. That’s why accounting compliance regulates their operations and sets ethical standards that they must follow. Show knowledge of recent developments in your industry by including projects that involved up-to-date or recent laws or accounting frameworks.

   Indicate your area of specialization.

Accountants can specialize in a particular area such as payroll, tax, and inventory accounting. This is something you should specify in your resume, either in your resume's title or summary section. By doing this, you demonstrate more authority in your field, which makes you more competitive for recruiters.

Skills you can include on your Accountant resume

Template 2 of 34: accounting clerk resume example.

An accounting clerk sits on a company’s accounting team within their finance department. These professionals are responsible for administrative accounting tasks such as reporting, bookkeeping, discrepancy identification and resolution, and invoice collection. These professionals deal with the granular aspects of a business's finances, ensuring payments are timely from customers and books are balanced. To become an accounting clerk, you will need a minimum of an associate's degree in accounting. A bachelor’s degree can help you land this role but is not always required. Hiring managers will look for someone with accounting experience, such as a prior role as a bookkeeper or debt collector. Moreover, they’ll look for candidates with a deep understanding of accounting processes, computer literacy, and superb organization and time management skills.

Tips to help you write your Accounting Clerk resume in 2024

   highlight your organizational abilities.

Since accounting clerks are usually responsible for organizing and cataloging important paperwork such as bills, invoices, and payment orders - showing you are highly organized will help you get this role. Highlight your organizational skills by detailing situations where you have successfully kept track of varying documents in prior roles.

   Showcase your experience solving account discrepancies or delinquency

It’s important that the accounting clerk is able to solve financial issues such as delinquent accounts. It’s important to highlight any experience you have identifying discrepancies or delinquent accounts and how you solved them.

Skills you can include on your Accounting Clerk resume

Template 3 of 34: accounting clerk resume example.

Accounting clerks perform various administrative tasks such as bookkeeping, reconciling accounts, tracking payments, and collecting data for audits. To get this job, your resume should reflect that you are highly organized, analytical, and capable of juggling a myriad of responsibilities. Provide examples from your prior work experience to illustrate these skills.

   Uses clear action verbs to discuss accomplishments

Accounting clerks perform a wide array of clerical duties to support their departments. On your resume, you should choose precise action verbs to describe how you’ve handled similar responsibilities at previous jobs. Industry-specific verbs such as “audited”, “processed”, and “reconciled” are especially strong choices to emphasize your accounting skills.

   Resume lists relevant work experience

Although you can find entry-level accounting clerk positions, having prior experience within the field always makes you a stronger job candidate. Focusing your resume on accounting clerk positions (or similar roles) you’ve held in the past is ideal, and shows hiring managers that you are ready to succeed in the role.

Template 4 of 34: Accounting Manager Resume Example

The accounting manager is a senior-level position within the finance team at an organization. Accounting managers are leaders who oversee the accounting team and their day-to-day business processes. As an accounting manager, you may monitor and optimize workflow processes, identify cost-savings opportunities, and provide guidance to junior accountants. To become an accounting manager, you will need demonstrated knowledge in accounting, as well as an eye for detail and great leadership skills. For this role, hiring managers will look for a candidate with a bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or business. More importantly, ideal candidates will have significant and progressive experience working in finance roles. Hiring managers may look for someone with previous experience as a junior accountant, budget officer, or controller. It’s important that candidates for this role have leadership abilities as well as project management capabilities.

Tips to help you write your Accounting Manager resume in 2024

   become a cpa (certified public accountant).

The CPA is a credential given to licensed accounting professionals. Having this certification on your resume will show hiring managers you have completed at least 150 hours of accounting education and have a minimum of 2 years of professional accounting experience. Gaining a CPA is a great way to quickly show hiring managers you are knowledgeable.

   Demonstrate your ability to lead others

It’s crucial that the accounting manager is a strong leader as they will oversee junior finance staff who complete important tasks such as payroll, accounts receivable, billing, and more. You should showcase your ability to manage several team members with varying responsibilities on your resume.

Skills you can include on your Accounting Manager resume

Template 5 of 34: accounting manager resume example.

The accounting manager oversees and manages the accounting team. They determine goals, and policies, and delegate tasks to team members. Accounting managers ensure that the organization’s finances are at their best state by auditing their financial reports. Then they identify patterns that allow them to draw conclusions. This is a leadership position, so you should demonstrate your leadership and project management skills in your resume. You can mention previous experiences in which you managed a large team.

   Demonstrate your expertise in the accounting field.

As an accounting manager, you are expected to have several years of experience in the field, so it’s important to include all relevant project and job experience in accounting. This will demonstrate seniority and illustrate your value in the industry.

   Indicate that you are up-to-date with industry trends, such as new accounting software or techniques.

Accounting managers should be computer-literate and up-to-date with the latest trends in the industry. Some of the most used programs for accounting in 2023 include Oracle NetSuite Accounting Software, Intuit QuickBooks Online, Melio, and FreshBooks Accounting Software. It might be a good idea to research the company you're applying to by looking at the job description, find out what they're using, and including that exact stack of software on your resume.

Template 6 of 34: Accounting Manager Resume Example

Accounting managers oversee accounting departments, manage financial reporting, and lead their teams to success. To advance to a management position in accounting, you not only need to be a great accountant; you also need to demonstrate leadership and people skills. Make sure your resume reflects your experience in these areas.

   Promotions show proactivity and growth in accounting

Featuring past promotions on your resume tells hiring managers that you are an outstanding employee with the potential to excel. It takes proactivity and drive to rise through the ranks at any job, and those same qualities are essential when you’re seeking a leadership position.

   Cites specific, measurable achievements from past jobs

As a financial professional, you will be expected to produce results for your employers. Quantify your previous successes with specific numbers to show the impact you made at your old jobs. Prior achievements such as “recovered $2M in overstated expenses” or “consolidated sales over $10M” are a strong testament to your skills.

Template 7 of 34: Senior Accountant / Accounting Executive Resume Example

Writing a resume for a Senior Accountant or Accounting Executive role is an exercise in demonstrating expertise and leadership within the finance realm. It's essential to remember that these roles are often the backbone of the finance department, so your resume should reflect the depth and breadth of your experience. In recent times, companies increasingly value accountants who can leverage technological tools for efficiency and accuracy; your knowledge of accounting software should be a shining star on your resume. Furthermore, with the rise of remote work and globalization, Senior Accountants are expected to be comfortable managing virtual teams and handling International Financial Reporting Standards. Ensure to incorporate your experience or training in these areas too.

Tips to help you write your Senior Accountant / Accounting Executive resume in 2024

   highlight technical competency.

Due to the increasing reliance on technology within accounting, ensure that you dedicate space to your proficiency in diverse accounting software and tools. Mention your experience in QuickBooks, SAP, Oracle Financials, or any proprietary software you used.

   Showcase Leadership Skills

Senior roles require you to lead teams and communicate financial information to non-financial stakeholders. Highlight any instances of leading a project, automating a process, or explaining complex data to others in your work experience section.

Skills you can include on your Senior Accountant / Accounting Executive resume

Template 8 of 34: senior accountant / accounting executive resume example.

Senior accountants don’t always supervise other employees, but they are typically experienced professionals who have worked in accounting for a number of years. As a senior accountant, you’ll do some typical accounting tasks, but you’ll also do higher-level analyses of your company’s financial standing. Your resume should show your aptitude for data analysis and your ability to make complex business decisions that lead to positive outcomes.

   Skills section lists relevant accounting technical skills

In your years of accounting, you’ve probably gained experience with software such as QuickBook, Oracle, RSM Auditor Assistant, and others. You’re likely also familiar with concepts such as generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), auditing, and financial analysis. Use a separate skills section to list technical and other hard skills you’ve acquired over the course of your career.

   Accounting-specific action verbs highlight past successes

Strong action verbs are an effective way to introduce achievements from your former jobs. Verbs like “conducted”, “automated”, and “implemented” all demonstrate proactivity, and they paint a clear picture of the role you played in each accomplishment.

Template 9 of 34: Entry Level Accountant Resume Example

Entry level accountants help with maintaining financial records, gathering data, and assembling basic reports. While you don’t need formal accounting experience for this job, it can help to have a bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a similar field. Lead your resume with your educational experience, mentioning any relevant coursework (such as business law or microeconomics), and be sure to also mention any relevant internships you’ve held.

Tips to help you write your Entry Level Accountant resume in 2024

   emphasizes educational history.

At the beginning of your accounting career, you won’t have as much work experience to list on your resume -- so place more focus on your education, especially if you completed a degree in accounting and finance. A high GPA and any academic distinctions you’ve earned can show potential employers proof of your work ethic and dedication.

   Lists relevant internships and community projects

When you have less employment history under your belt, highlight any internships you’ve done in accounting or finance. These positions are valuable because they teach you similar skills to what you might learn in an accounting job. Volunteer projects where you’ve organized meetings, gathered donations, or developed other professional skills are also worth mentioning.

Skills you can include on your Entry Level Accountant resume

Template 10 of 34: staff accountant resume example.

Staff accountants keep track of and oversee all financial records in an organization, including balance sheets and cash flow, equity, and income statements. They must record transactions conduct the billing processes, and help stakeholders make more informed decisions regarding year budgets or new projects. That’s why you might want to highlight your business acumen on your resume by mentioning your impact on previous projects’ bottom line. A staff accountant can work in private, public, and non-profit institutions. Ideally, you should have a bachelor’s degree in finance, administration, or accounting.

Tips to help you write your Staff Accountant resume in 2024

   mention your familiarity with local and state staff accounting regulations..

One of your responsibilities as a staff accountant is to ensure the company is compliant with local and state regulations. You should guarantee that the accounting team is following the best practices to demonstrate transparency and accuracy in financial records.

   Highlight your financial analysis skills.

As a staff accountant, you should compare each year’s transactions to identify patterns in the data. This includes income, spending habits, and budgets. This way, you can help stakeholders make better financial decisions using data-backed insights.

Skills you can include on your Staff Accountant resume

Template 11 of 34: staff accountant resume example.

Staff accountants have a variety of duties that may include bookkeeping, processing payroll, preparing taxes, and generating financial reports and statements. They also help ensure compliance with local laws and regulations.

   Focuses on quantifiable achievements from past accounting jobs

When talking about your previous jobs, it’s wise to mention specific results that you achieved in each position so accounting hiring managers can see the extent of your capabilities. When you can say that you “reduced error rates by 20%” or “maintained monthly schedules of 30+ fixed assets”, you show that your actions and decisions had a measurable impact at past jobs.

   Leads accomplishments with action verbs

You should always lead your bullet-point achievements with precise action verbs such as “oversaw”, “maintained”, and “reconciled”. These types of verbs clearly illustrate what you accomplished at past jobs, and they help you position yourself as a skilled professional within your field. If you can choose verbs that are related to accounting and finance, do that!

Template 12 of 34: Cost Accountant Resume Example

Cost accountants analyze and assess the costs of producing products or services. They help businesses identify areas where they could become more profitable. In addition to the math and data analysis skills that most accountants need, cost accountants need strong budgeting skills and the ability to communicate effectively with management about their findings. Use your resume to highlight your accounting background and your skills at collaborating with others.

Tips to help you write your Cost Accountant resume in 2024

   promotions demonstrate a drive to succeed.

If you’ve advanced from less-senior positions to roles with more responsibility in the past, make sure to point out your promotions on your resume. Starting as an auditor and leveling up to a management accountant position demonstrates your financial acumen and tells recruiters that you are likely to thrive in a potential new role.

   Industry-specific action verbs show financial expertise

When you’re pursuing a job in accounting, use verbs specific to finance (such as “analyzed”, “audited”, and “managed”) throughout your resume to talk about your past accomplishments. These verbs are a great way to showcase your knowledge and experience within the financial industry.

Skills you can include on your Cost Accountant resume

Template 13 of 34: payroll accountant resume example.

Payroll accountants supervise and process payments. They are responsible for ensuring that payments are processed efficiently, on time, and following legal regulations. Additional responsibilities include calculating deductions, resolving salary conflicts, and generating salary statements for employees. Generally, payroll accountants have a bachelor’s degree in finance or administration. Keep in mind that it’s important to demonstrate your knowledge of relevant tax laws on your resume.

Tips to help you write your Payroll Accountant resume in 2024

   indicate you have extensive knowledge of payroll functions on your resume..

As a payroll accountant, you should demonstrate proficiency in payroll functions. This includes calculating wages, deductions, bonuses, and processing payments for each employee. That’s why you should include skills such as payroll processing, auditing, tax deduction, and financial reporting.

   Showcase the payroll software that you are familiar with in your resume.

There are numerous tools out there that help you automate payroll tasks. Some of the most popular ones include QuickBooks Payro, Gusto, and OnPay. However, you can mention any payroll tool that you are familiar with. It’s also a good idea to check your potential employer’s requirements to see if they have a particular program they use.

Skills you can include on your Payroll Accountant resume

Template 14 of 34: payroll accountant resume example.

Payroll accountants are responsible for processing companies’ employee compensation. Each pay period, they calculate each employee’s earnings, deduct the proper amounts for income tax and benefits, and issue paychecks. To get a payroll accountant position, use your resume to show that you have general accounting skills, experience using payroll software, and a working knowledge of labor and tax regulations.

   Prominent skills section for hard accounting skills

Payroll accounting requires some specialized knowledge. You’ll need to know your local labor and tax laws to ensure your company is in compliance. You may also use software such as ADP Payroll to process your company’s payroll. A resume skills section allows you to list your job-specific hard skills in a place where they’ll be easy to see.

   Resume is tailored to the specific payroll-related job

Always target your resume to the job you’re applying for. Adding the job title “Payroll Accountant” near the top of the document can help your resume get through automated tracking systems (ATS) and other resume screening tools. Make your resume even more relevant to the position by adding accounting keywords throughout your work experience and skills (“payroll”, “processing”, and “reporting” are just a few of many examples).

Template 15 of 34: Accounting Assistant Resume Example

Being an accounting assistant requires a particular set of skills. You're often the backbone of the accounting department, handling data entry, invoice processing, and overall financial record keeping. The job requires meticulous attention to detail, great numerical skills, and often, a good handle on certain software like Quickbooks or Excel. Lately, due to increased digitalization, many accounting assistant roles may also require familiarity with cloud-based tools and software. As you craft your resume, remember that hiring managers are keen to see your technical skills, your ability to work with a team, and examples of how you've added value in past roles, such as improving processes or saving company resources. Specificity is key, so provide quantifiable achievements whenever possible.

Tips to help you write your Accounting Assistant resume in 2024

   highlight software proficiency.

As an accounting assistant, you'll likely be using a variety of accounting and data management software. Specify which programs you're familiar with, like QuickBooks, MS Excel, or any other cloud-based accounting tools, as this can be a key deciding factor for hiring managers.

   Detail achievements with numbers

When drafting the experience section, don't just list your routine tasks. Instead, highlight achievements and improvements you've brought about, ideally using specific numbers. For example, "Implemented a new data entry method that improved efficiency by 20%".

Skills you can include on your Accounting Assistant resume

Template 16 of 34: accounting assistant resume example.

In an accounting assistant role, you’ll be doing basic accounting tasks such as record keeping, cash handling, and billing to help support your company. You may be able to get this job straight out of school, but some companies may require a few years of accounting experience. Use a resume like this one to showcase the experience you do have, giving specific examples of achievements that illustrate your organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

   Resume is focused on the specific accounting position

Recruiters like to see consistency in resumes, and if you have a lengthy work history within a specific role, you’ll be a desirable candidate for that position. Having held previous accounting assistant positions (including ones of increasing seniority), you’ll have gained many relevant and transferable skills for your new job.

   Relevant educational history is included

Most companies want to hire accounting assistants who at least hold a bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject area (such as applied business, accounting, or finance). Be sure to mention your finance-related educational background and credentials on your resume.

Template 17 of 34: Tax Accountant Resume Example

As a Tax Accountant, your resume should show that you're more than just an individual who crunches numbers. Your expertise in complex tax law, vast knowledge about regulations and meticulous nature are important. These days, companies are becoming more and more aware of the importance of abiding by tax laws. They want accountants who are informed and up-to-date with these regulations, both federal and state. Keep in mind, your resume is the first opportunity to showcase these skills to potential employers. Recently, there's been a shift towards valuing soft skills like communication and problem-solving in the Tax Accountant role. It's not enough to just be good with numbers, you should also be able to explain complex tax concepts to non-tax professionals. When writing your resume, it's crucial to demonstrate both technical expertise and these soft skills.

Tips to help you write your Tax Accountant resume in 2024

   include relevant certifications.

Next to your formal education, make sure you include any additional certifications like the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or the Chartered Tax Advisor (CTA). These qualifications not only confirm your competence in tax law and regulations, but also display your commitment to the accounting field.

   Showcase your problem-solving skills

Don't just list your roles and responsibilities, but illustrate how you've used your skills to solve real tax issues. Maybe you identified a tax-saving opportunity for your previous employer or assisted in a difficult audit. Concrete examples will make your resume stand out.

Skills you can include on your Tax Accountant resume

Template 18 of 34: tax accountant resume example.

A tax accountant specializes in preparing and filing tax forms for businesses and individuals. These accountants must stay abreast of current tax regulations to help their clients comply with the law. You’ll need specialized knowledge in order to become a tax accountant -- so if you have experience in tax accounting, auditing, or tax preparation, make sure to say so on your resume.

   Skills section highlights specialized tax and accounting knowledge

To become a tax accountant, you’ll need additional training in tax law and preparation beyond what is standard for your industry. Once you’ve acquired these hard skills, list them prominently in your resume skills section.

   Discuss past achievements using specific numbers related to accounting

All types of accountants usually produce tangible results for the companies they work for. Instead of providing vague statements about what you did at past jobs, mention past achievements using specific numbers to measure the scope of what you accomplished (e.g. “resolved over 100 tax issues” or “reduced tax penalty fees by 20%”).

Template 19 of 34: Accounting Specialist Resume Example

As an Accounting Specialist, you're often perceived as the 'financial lifeline' of a company. Your role requires you to masterfully balance numbers and ensure that the financial health of the company is spot on. It's a job that's all about precision and accuracy, and it's gaining more importance as companies evolve in this technology-driven era. With this trend, employers are increasingly looking for people who can navigate not only the traditional accounting tasks but also new age financial software and systems. Therefore, when crafting your resume, it's crucial to convey your in-depth knowledge in accounting principles, alongside your proficiency in financial software. In recent times, companies have been advocating for automation in accounting, aiming to reduce errors and increase efficiency. Not to forget, the accounting field is also adopting machine learning and artificial intelligence to streamline processes. As such, candidates who can demonstrate their adaptability to these evolving trends will have an edge. Your resume should highlight your willingness to learn and adapt, while also showcasing your expertise in the core accounting tasks.

Tips to help you write your Accounting Specialist resume in 2024

   highlight your technology proficiency.

As an Accounting Specialist, you must emphasize your familiarity with accounting software like QuickBooks, Excel, or any other specific tools you've mastered. Mention any special certifications you have in these tools as it would demonstrate your initiative and proficiency.

   Show Evidence of Your Accuracy and Precision

Accounting is all about accuracy and precision. Ensure to highlight any accomplishments or roles where you've demonstrated these qualities. Use specific numbers or statistics as evidence. For example, you could mention the percentage of accuracy achieved in your previous role or any error reduction initiatives you've spearheaded.

Skills you can include on your Accounting Specialist resume

Template 20 of 34: accounting specialist resume example.

Accounting specialists may have wide ranging responsibilities such as maintaining financial records, processing payroll, generating reports, and making projections. To get this job, focus your resume on accounting skills such as balancing budget sheets, processing invoices, or managing account transfers.

   Uses effective action verbs to talk about achievements

When writing your resume bullet points, consider leading with verbs such as “conducted”, “streamlined”, and “spearheaded” to underscore the impact of your successes. Verbs like these ones show that you are proactive and take your career seriously.

   Relevant technical skills in skills section

As an accounting specialist, you may need to use certain types of software in your daily duties. Create a dedicated skills section on your resume where you can list the programs you’re proficient with, such as Microsoft Access, QuickBooks, or NetSuite ERP.

Template 21 of 34: Junior Accountant Resume Example

This is an entry-level position and you will be working under the supervision of a manager or senior accountant. Tasks you can expect include preparing financial reports, handling payroll, creating and updating financial statements, etc. Your resume must show recruiters your skills in accounting as well as a strong accounting background, Take a look at this resume sample.

Tips to help you write your Junior Accountant resume in 2024

   include accounting-related certifications..

Impress recruiters by listing any accounting certifications you may have gotten. Internationally recognized certifications like a CPA would be particularly impressive, and in some cases required.

   Focus your skills section on accounting-related skills and tools.

Just by taking a look at your skills section, recruiters should be able to tell what you are capable of as an accountant. So make sure you include all industry-standard accounting tools, and mention your experience and skills in all the main tasks in accounting.

Skills you can include on your Junior Accountant resume

Template 22 of 34: project accountant resume example.

As the name suggests, as a project accountant you will be responsible for handling and monitoring the finances of a project. You will approve payments, analyze expenses, and ensure that the project progresses as intended and within the allocated budget. Recruiters will want to see a strong educational background in accounting and will be looking to see experience in accounting and more specifically in project accounting. If you have experience doing accounting in the same industry as the recruiting company, all the better. Take a look at this successful resume sample.

Tips to help you write your Project Accountant resume in 2024

   show a variety of accounting skills in the skills section..

Because you will be in charge of the accounting for a project, you will have a variety of accounting tasks to complete. Show that you are capable of completing all expected tasks by ensuring your skills section lists the various tasks.

   Indicate the financial size of the projects you have worked on.

Give recruiters an idea of what you are capable of handling by adding figures of the financial size of the projects you have worked with. This applicant had worked on a project worth $22M.

Skills you can include on your Project Accountant resume

Template 23 of 34: public accountant resume example.

A public accountant is similar to a freelancer or contractor. You do not work as a full-time employee of one company but you instead offer your services to many companies or individuals. You may be preparing their returns, doing a forensic analysis of their books, or even just giving relevant advice. Your qualifications are of great importance for this title, so ensure they are clearly shown. Above that, individuals and companies will be looking to see the experience you have had doing the kind of tasks they need to be done, so ensure that your experience section reflects all your capabilities.

Tips to help you write your Public Accountant resume in 2024

   indicate the kind of clients you generally work with..

Huge corporations may need very different accounting services than individuals or small businesses. It is therefore very important to indicate who your clients have been so far so potential clients can get an idea of how much experience you have in the tasks they need to be done.

   Use metrics to highlight your achievements.

Metrics are an easy way to quantify your achievements and impress potential clients. So include metrics like how many clients you had, how much much money you saved them, etc.

Skills you can include on your Public Accountant resume

Template 24 of 34: fund accountant resume example.

Fund accountants perform everyday accounting functions for a fund. These functions might include valuing net assets, balancing the books, providing vetted and accurate statements, etc. Apart from these general accounting tasks, you might also be tasked with analyzing financial metrics in the industry to help firms accurately value their funds.

Tips to help you write your Fund Accountant resume in 2024

   show a history in the financial sector..

Because this position is in the financial sector, clients would prefer to hire someone with a long history doing accounting tasks for firms in the financial sector. So make sure your experience section concentrates on your financial sector past jobs.

   Write ‘Fund Accountant’ in your title to bypass ATS.

Most recruiters use ATS resume filters, so you must clearly state your title to help you bypass these filters. Writing ‘Accountant’ only for your title may not be enough to get you through. Be specific.

Skills you can include on your Fund Accountant resume

Template 25 of 34: senior tax accountant resume example.

As the name suggests, this is an experienced tax accountant. Tasks you can expect include preparing all tax documentation, training junior tax accountants, and ensuring your client remains tax compliant. Recruiters expect to see a resume that shows at least 5 years of experience and a strong accounting background. Evidence of managerial or leader experience would be an extra benefit. Here is a recruiter-approved resume sample.

Tips to help you write your Senior Tax Accountant resume in 2024

   get certified as a tax professional..

Accounting certifications are always nice, but for this position, you should aim to get tax-specific accounting certifications. It will set you apart from all the more generic accountants you are competing with and will show recruiters that you are highly skilled and passionate about the field.

   Include tax-specific keywords.

Using job-specific keywords in your resume may help you bypass ATS resume filters put in place. So use keywords relevant to tax accounting like ‘IRS’, ‘corporate tex’, and ‘compliance’.

Skills you can include on your Senior Tax Accountant resume

Template 26 of 34: property accountant resume example.

This accountant handles the financial documents associated with real estate. You may assist in valuing properties, preparing financial reports, or figuring out your client's tax obligations and preparing the correct documentation. Recruiters will be looking to see if your resume indicates expert knowledge in real estate and the accounting and tax processes and obligations associated with real estate. Ensure that your experience in this industry is well-highlighted. Take a look at this strong resume sample.

Tips to help you write your Property Accountant resume in 2024

   include property-specific skills in your skills section..

Accounting largely requires the same basic skills regardless of the industry you are working in. But if you are a specialized accountant as this title positions you to be, ensure that your skills section indicates skills in this particular industry. Skills like ‘property accounting’ and ‘property management’ would be effective.

   Get property-specific certification.

Show recruiters that you are particularly skilled and knowledgeable in property accounting by getting certified. This applicant’s certification in property management is a good example of a certification that would give an applicant an edge.

Skills you can include on your Property Accountant resume

Template 27 of 34: experienced accountant resume example.

An experienced accountant, sometimes called a senior accountant, is a professional who has worked successfully in the field for many years (at least 5). Your tasks may be the same as more junior accountants but you may be tasked with the most important and central accounting functions. This position requires accuracy, interpersonal skills, and a strong accounting skill set. Here is a successful resume sample.

Tips to help you write your Experienced Accountant resume in 2024

   list your expertise on various functions in the introduction section..

Start your resume strong by including the accounting functions you are particularly skilled at, and include a key achievement that shows the outcome of your skills. Starting your resume off strong will help your resume look more impressive overall.

   Use metrics to quantify your accounting success.

Metrics jump out among the text in a resume and are an easy way to impress recruiters. A great accountant will work to maintain the financial health of the company, increase efficiencies, and reduce costs. If you have done any of the 3, include metrics to prove them.

Skills you can include on your Experienced Accountant resume

Template 28 of 34: construction accountant resume example.

Construction accountants have the same functions as project accountants, except they operate solely on construction projects. Tasks you can expect include planning budgets, updating financial records, approving payments to suppliers, etc. You are basically in charge of ensuring that the budget allocated is used as it was intended. Extensive knowledge about the workings of the construction business is expected, as is experience being an accountant for projects. Take a look at this recruiter-approved resume sample.

Tips to help you write your Construction Accountant resume in 2024

   use strong action verbs that indicate a variety of experiences..

Action verbs can be really powerful in shaping your experience. Use strong and varied action verbs like ‘supervised’ and ‘analyzed’ to show recruiters that you can perform a variety of accountant functions.

   Write ‘Construction Accountant’ in your title to bypass ATS.

Most recruiters use ATS resume filters, so you must clearly state your title to help you bypass these filters. Writing ‘Accountant’ only for your title may not be enough to get you through. Be industry-specific.

Skills you can include on your Construction Accountant resume

Template 29 of 34: fixed asset accountant resume example.

As the name suggests, you will be in charge of accounting tasks related to fixed assets. Tasks you can expect include valuing, recording, and even identifying fixed assets. You will also be responsible for providing financial reports to decision-makers, and doing other general accounting tasks. You must have an in-depth knowledge of fixed assets and must be a talented accountant. Your resume should show your strength in both. Here is a resume sample that does that effectively.

Tips to help you write your Fixed Asset Accountant resume in 2024

   show career progression through promotions..

Show recruiters that you are a hardworking and successful employee by showing promotions in your career. It will also show recruiters your dedication to your profession. This applicant started as an audit intern and moved their way up to a fixed asset accountant position.

   Include the skills level for skills you are excellent at.

An easy way to impress recruiters and also show them your strengths is by including proficiencies for some of your skills. This applicant has listed ‘advanced’ for some skills and ‘experienced’ for others.

Skills you can include on your Fixed Asset Accountant resume

Template 30 of 34: corporate accountant resume example.

In this position, you will specialize in accounting for a business or company. Your tasks may include preparing financial documents, maintaining good financial records, preparing tax documents, and ensuring that the business is compliant with all relevant financial or tax regulations and laws. You need to show that you are experienced working in this type of accounting. Ensure both the experience and skills sections of your resume show that. Here is a good resume sample.

Tips to help you write your Corporate Accountant resume in 2024

   highlight your accountant certifications and qualifications..

Because of the large budgets and complicated accounting processes attributed to corporations, your formal qualifications are particularly important and in many cases required. So ensure you highlight your internationally recognized certification like your CPA.

   Write ‘Corporate Accountant’ in your title to bypass ATS.

Skills you can include on your Corporate Accountant resume

Template 31 of 34: revenue accountant resume example.

A revenue accountant is in charge of monitoring a company’s incoming revenue. You will create invoices, track payments, update transaction records, and ensure that all incoming revenue is accounted for. You need to have a strong understanding of the company and its processes concerning revenue. You also need to show a strong accounting background to attract recruiters. Here is a recruiter-approved resume sample.

Tips to help you write your Revenue Accountant resume in 2024

   concentrate on revenue-related experience..

You want to show that you are an all-rounded accountant but you need to show that you have a wealth of experience doing revenue-related accounting tasks, so focus on highlighting those.

   Highlight revenue accounting technical skills.

Your skills section is small and should include the skills most relevant to the job position. So ensure that your skills section focuses on revenue accounting skills like revenue recognition.

Skills you can include on your Revenue Accountant resume

Template 32 of 34: chief accounting officer resume example.

As the CAO you are in charge of the entire accounting department and its operations. Tasks you can expect include compiling financial reports, overseeing payroll, Analyzing and developing budgets and other accounting goals, etc. Most companies will expect you to have a master’s degree in accounting or a related field and you will need to have at least 5 years of experience. Most companies will also ask for a CPA certification so make sure your certifications are clearly listed on your resume. Here is a successful resume sample.

Tips to help you write your Chief Accounting Officer resume in 2024

Show recruiters your upward progression in your career. It will show recruiters your dedication to your profession and give them a better idea of the relevant skills you have gained along the way. This applicant started as a financial controller and moved their way up to a CAO position.

   Include any accounting-related certification.

Apart from the expected CPA certification, include any other certifications you have gained related to accounting or management. It will give recruiters a better idea of your specializations or your styles of management. This applicant has an internal auditor certification which indicates their accounting specialization and could have listed an Agile certification which would have indicated their management ideology.

Skills you can include on your Chief Accounting Officer resume

Template 33 of 34: director of accounting resume example.

A Director of Accounting role is about leading the finance team and making high-impact decisions, but remember, it's not all about numbers. It's how you articulate your strategic mindset to transform raw data into actionable insights in your resume that sets you apart. Recently, there's been a trend towards placing a higher value on those who can demonstrate their ability to implement new technologies, such as AI or blockchain, to streamline financial operations. Writing a resume for this position is more than just listing your achievements. It's about showcasing your leadership style, your ability to influence others and the strategic thinking behind your decisions. To truly stand out, you need to capture your holistic view of a company's financial health and how you've driven companies to thrive, not just survive.

Tips to help you write your Director of Accounting resume in 2024

   show your experiential proficiency with financial technology.

Showcase your experience with modern financial tools, ERP systems, or even AI-powered accounting software. Demonstrate how you've used these technologies to increase efficiency or accuracy in your previous roles. This will show that you're forward-thinking and readily adapt to technological advancements.

   Exhibit your strategic financial planning skills

In the Director of Accounting role, it's essential to look beyond the numbers. Hence, you need to include instances where you've developed strategic financial plans which successfully drove company growth. Show how you've worked with different departments to achieve these financial goals.

Skills you can include on your Director of Accounting resume

Template 34 of 34: director of accounting resume example.

A director of accounting is a senior, experienced accounting professional. They will lead the way in financial reporting, international exchanges, intercompany transactions, and audits. They may also be tasked with optimizing internal controls, preparing detailed financial reports for investors, and more. This position oversees direct reports in the accounting department making managerial skills also important. When looking for a director of accounting, hiring managers will be looking for someone with at least a Bachelor's degree in accounting or finance, though a Master’s degree may give a candidate a competitive edge. Hiring managers will want a candidate with 5+ years of progressive professional accounting experience. Having accounting specific certifications will also be desirable to hiring managers.

   Obtain a CMA or CPA credential

Certifications show hiring managers you have studied and been tested on core aspects of accounting and financial management. Obtaining your CPA (Certified Public Accountant) or CMA (Certified Managerial Accountant) credential can show employers you’re well-versed in accounting principles.

   Show your experience managing teams in a financial setting

As a director of accounting, you’ll be expected to lead junior accountants in daily processes and operations. To land this role, it’s wise to show you have the leadership skills to do this. If you’ve previously overseen a team, or led your team in accounting projects or overhauling processes, it’s wise to detail your success with it in your resume.

As a hiring manager who has recruited accountants at top companies like PwC, Deloitte, and KPMG, I've seen countless resumes over the years. The best ones always stand out by showcasing the candidate's skills, experience, and achievements in a clear and compelling way. In this article, we'll share some tips to help you create a strong accountant resume that will catch the attention of hiring managers and increase your chances of landing an interview.

   Highlight your accounting certifications and education

Make sure to prominently feature your accounting certifications, such as CPA, CMA, or CIA, as well as your educational background in accounting or a related field. Here are some examples:

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA), [State], [Year]
• Master of Science in Accounting, [University Name], [Graduation Year]
• Bachelor of Science in Accounting, [University Name], [Graduation Year]

Avoid simply listing your certifications or degrees without providing context:

   Emphasize your experience with accounting software and tools

Highlight your proficiency with commonly used accounting software and tools, such as:

• Microsoft Excel (including advanced functions like VLOOKUP and Pivot Tables)
• Oracle NetSuite

Provide specific examples of how you've used these tools to improve processes or solve problems in your previous roles. For instance:

Implemented a new invoicing system using QuickBooks, reducing payment processing time by 30% and improving cash flow.

   Quantify your achievements with metrics and data

Use numbers and percentages to quantify your accomplishments and show the impact of your work. Here are some examples:

• Reduced accounts receivable aging by 25% through proactive collection efforts and improved invoicing processes
• Identified and corrected errors in financial statements, saving the company $50,000 in potential penalties
• Managed a team of 5 accountants, overseeing the preparation of monthly and quarterly financial reports for 20+ clients

Avoid using vague or generic statements that don't provide any context, like:

• Responsible for accounts receivable
• Prepared financial statements
• Managed a team of accountants

   Tailor your resume to the specific job description

Customize your resume for each job application by highlighting the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the position. For example, if the job description emphasizes experience with tax accounting, make sure to focus on your tax-related projects and achievements.

Here's an example of a tailored bullet point:

• Prepared and filed federal and state income tax returns for individuals and small businesses, ensuring compliance with tax laws and regulations

Avoid using a generic resume that doesn't address the specific requirements of the job, like:

• Assisted with various accounting tasks

   Showcase your problem-solving skills with specific examples

Demonstrate your ability to analyze financial data, identify issues, and recommend solutions by providing concrete examples from your previous experience. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your examples.

Situation: Noticed discrepancies in the company's financial statements during month-end close Task: Investigate the source of the discrepancies and recommend corrective actions Action: Analyzed financial data, traced transactions, and identified a systemic issue with the revenue recognition process Result: Implemented a new revenue recognition policy, ensuring accurate financial reporting and compliance with GAAP

Avoid simply stating that you have strong problem-solving skills without providing any evidence to support your claim.

   Include relevant volunteer experience or professional affiliations

If you have volunteered in a financial capacity or are a member of professional accounting organizations, include this information on your resume. It can demonstrate your commitment to the field and provide additional evidence of your skills and experience.

For example:

• Volunteer Treasurer, [Non-Profit Organization], [Dates]
• Member, American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), [Dates]

However, avoid listing memberships or volunteer experiences that are not directly relevant to accounting or finance, as they may distract from your core qualifications.

Ready to start preparing your accounting resume? Keep these tips in mind as you write to maximize your chances of getting the job you want.

   Make sure to include relevant education and certifications

Most companies today want prospective accountants to have at least a bachelor’s degree in accounting or another finance-specific area. Accounting jobs are growing more competitive, so having an educational background in accounting might give you the edge you need to get hired. Although not all accounting positions require you to have additional certifications (such as CPA, CFA, and others), acquiring these will add to your training and help you advance to more senior roles. Don’t skip including your accounting-related education and credentials on your resume.

   Create a skills section to list your hard and technical accounting skills

Accounting professionals should be familiar with generally accepted accounting practices, relevant laws, and business concepts. They may have specialized knowledge of tax, auditing, financial analysis, or other areas. Often, accountants need to be comfortable using software like QuickBooks or NetSuite ERS. Because there are so many hard skills associated with accounting, it’s smart to create a section in your resume to showcase these abilities. Note that your skills section is ideal for listing hard and technical skills only; it’s better to illustrate soft skills like communication or teamwork through examples in your work experience section.

   Target your resume to the specific role you’re applying for

Be sure to tailor your resume to the particular accounting position you want. Whether you’re hoping to become a tax accountant or accounting manager, your resume should mention the specific job title you’re applying for. Focus on your most relevant work experience and skills, and add accounting and finance-related keywords (such as “payroll”, “tax”, “reconciliation”, and others) wherever possible. Adding keywords and tailoring your work history to the position is beneficial for several reasons. First, it shows recruiters that you are interested in the specific job they’re offering -- a much better strategy than firing off generic resumes to dozens of hiring managers. And second, a tailored resume with relevant keywords is more likely to get through automated resume-filtering systems (such as ATS) that employers commonly use.

Writing Your Accountant Resume: Section By Section

  header, 1. include your name, email, and phone number.

Your header should prominently feature your full name at the top, followed by your email address and phone number. Make sure to use a professional email address that includes your name, rather than a casual or outdated one.

Here's an example of a well-formatted header for an accountant resume:

• John Smith, CPA
• [email protected] | 555-123-4567

Avoid cluttering your header with unnecessary details like:

• John Smith, CPA, MBA, EA
• 123 Main St, Anytown USA 12345
• [email protected]

2. Highlight your accounting credentials

If you have earned a CPA license or other relevant accounting certifications, be sure to include them after your name in your header. This immediately conveys your expertise and qualifications to employers.

• Jane Doe, CPA
• Bob Johnson, CMA, CFE

However, avoid listing all of your credentials if you have many. Focus on the most impressive and relevant ones for the specific accounting role. For example:

Sarah Lee, CPA, CIA, CFE, EA, CGMA, CISA, MBA

3. Consider including your LinkedIn profile URL

In today's digital age, many employers will look up candidates on LinkedIn. You can make it easy for them by including a link to your LinkedIn profile in your resume header.

• linkedin.com/in/john-smith-cpa

Just be sure your LinkedIn profile is up-to-date and presents you in a professional light before linking to it. Avoid linking to a bare-bones profile, or one that has discrepancies from your resume.

  Summary

A resume summary is an optional section that provides a brief overview of your qualifications, experience, and career goals. While it's not a required component of a resume, it can be a valuable addition for experienced accountants or those seeking a career change. A well-crafted summary can quickly capture the attention of hiring managers and showcase your most relevant skills and achievements.

However, it's important to note that you should never use an objective statement in place of a summary. Objective statements are outdated and focus on what you want from an employer, rather than what you can offer them. Instead, use your summary to highlight your unique value proposition and demonstrate how you can contribute to the organization's success.

To learn how to write an effective resume summary for your Accountant resume, or figure out if you need one, please read Accountant Resume Summary Examples , or Accountant Resume Objective Examples .

1. Tailor your summary to the specific accounting role

When writing your summary, it's crucial to align your qualifications with the requirements of the specific accounting position you're targeting. Research the company and the job description to identify the key skills, certifications, and experience they're seeking.

For instance, if you're applying for a tax accountant role, your summary might look like this:

CPA with 5+ years of experience in corporate tax accounting. Skilled in preparing and filing federal and state tax returns, identifying tax savings opportunities, and ensuring compliance with tax laws and regulations. Proven track record of successfully managing multiple client accounts and delivering timely and accurate results.

On the other hand, a generic summary that fails to address the specific requirements of the role might read:

Experienced accountant with a strong work ethic and attention to detail. Proficient in various accounting software and able to handle multiple tasks simultaneously. Seeking a challenging position in a dynamic organization.

2. Highlight your most relevant skills and achievements

Your summary should showcase your most impressive and relevant accomplishments, skills, and qualifications. Focus on the aspects of your background that directly relate to the accounting position you're seeking and demonstrate your ability to excel in the role.

When highlighting your skills and achievements, be specific and quantify your results whenever possible. For example:

• Managed accounts payable and receivable for a $10M company, ensuring 98% on-time payment and reducing outstanding receivables by 25%
• Implemented a new financial reporting system that streamlined processes and reduced month-end close time by 40%

Avoid using vague or generic statements that don't provide concrete evidence of your abilities, such as:

• Experienced in various accounting functions
• Strong problem-solving skills

  Experience

Your work experience section is the core of your resume. It's where you have the chance to showcase your career trajectory, key accomplishments, and the impact you've made at previous companies. In this section, we'll break down step-by-step what you should include and how to write about your experience to impress hiring managers.

1. Highlight your accounting specialization

As an accountant, you likely have experience in a specific area of accounting, such as tax accounting, auditing, or financial accounting. Make sure to highlight your specialization in your work experience section.

Here are a few examples of how to showcase your accounting specialization:

• Managed tax accounting for a portfolio of 50+ clients, ensuring compliance with federal and state tax laws
• Conducted financial audits for public and private companies, identifying areas of risk and providing recommendations for improvement
• Prepared and analyzed financial statements for a $50M company, providing insights to senior management

2. Quantify your impact with metrics

Numbers are a powerful way to demonstrate your impact and value to a company. Use metrics to quantify your accomplishments whenever possible.

Here are some examples of how to use metrics in your work experience section:

• Reduced accounts receivable by 30% by implementing a new collections process
• Identified and corrected errors in financial statements, saving the company $100,000 in potential fines
• Managed a team of 5 accountants to complete month-end close process in 3 days, a 50% reduction from previous timeline

Avoid using vague statements like this that don't quantify your impact:

• Assisted with financial statement preparation

3. Showcase your progression and promotions

Hiring managers love to see candidates who have progressed and been promoted within their previous companies. It shows that you were a valued employee and were able to take on increasing levels of responsibility.

Here's an example of how to showcase your progression:

Senior Accountant, XYZ Company, New York, NY (2018-Present) - Promoted to Senior Accountant after 2 years as a Staff Accountant - Manage a team of 3 junior accountants to complete financial reporting and analysis - Prepare and review complex tax returns for high-net-worth individuals Staff Accountant, XYZ Company, New York, NY (2016-2018) - Assisted with preparation of monthly financial statements - Reconciled bank statements and credit card accounts - Prepared individual and business tax returns

4. Highlight relevant tools and technologies

Accounting roles often require proficiency in specific software or tools. Highlight your experience with these tools in your work experience section to show hiring managers that you have the necessary skills for the job.

Some common tools and technologies for accountants include:

• Microsoft Excel

Here are a couple examples of how to incorporate these tools into your work experience:

• Managed financial reporting using Oracle NetSuite ERP system
• Created complex financial models and forecasts using Microsoft Excel

  Education

Your education section shows hiring managers that you have the necessary knowledge and training for the accountant role. It also gives them a sense of your career trajectory and goals. Here are some tips for crafting a strong education section on your accountant resume.

1. Put your education section near the top if you're a recent grad

If you graduated within the last few years, your education is likely your strongest qualification for the job. In this case, put your education section above your work experience.

Include any relevant coursework, academic achievements, or extracurricular activities that show your accounting skills:

• Bachelor of Science in Accounting, XYZ University, 2020
• Relevant Coursework: Financial Accounting, Managerial Accounting, Auditing, Taxation
• GPA: 3.8/4.0
• Treasurer, Accounting Students Association

2. Keep your education section brief if you're an experienced accountant

If you have several years of accounting experience, your work history is more important than your education. Keep your education section short and to the point.

Bad example:

• Bachelor of Science in Accounting, XYZ University, 1995-1999
• Relevant Coursework: Financial Accounting, Managerial Accounting, Auditing, Taxation, Business Law, Economics, Statistics
• GPA: 3.6/4.0
• Accounting Club Member

Good example:

• Bachelor of Science in Accounting, XYZ University
• CPA, ABC State Board of Accountancy

3. Include your CPA license and other relevant certifications

Many accountant jobs require or prefer candidates with a CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license. If you have your CPA, make sure to include it in your education section.

You can also include other relevant certifications, such as:

• CMA (Certified Management Accountant)
• CIA (Certified Internal Auditor)
• CFE (Certified Fraud Examiner)
• EA (Enrolled Agent)

Education Bachelor of Science in Accounting, XYZ University CPA, ABC State Board of Accountancy CMA, Institute of Management Accountants

Action Verbs For Accountant Resumes

When discussing your accounting experience on your resume, you’ll want to lead into your achievements with strong action verbs. Choose the clearest, most concise word to express the role you played in your accomplishment. Active, specific verbs like “managed” or “developed” are always a stronger choice than vague phrases like “assisted with” or “was responsible for”. Finally, remember that finance comes with its own specialized “language” and vocabulary. As much as possible, pick verbs that are industry-specific to convey your expertise.

• Administered
• Restructured

For a full list of effective resume action verbs, visit Resume Action Verbs .

Action Verbs for Accountant Resumes

How to write an accountant resume.

Here we take you through the process of creating a resume for an accountant position. These steps will help you whether you are applying for an entry-level or senior accounting position.

Start by completing the essentials on any Accounting resume

1.1: your resume header should capture your key information..

A resume header is one of the first things that many recruiters see, and so it should include essential details like your name, location (your full address is not required), and your email address. You can optionally include the job title of the job you are applying for - especially if you're making a career change into accounting.

1.2: Use conventional resume section titles

In general, your resume will have at least 3 core sections: Experience, Education, and Skills. Make sure you have a clear section title for each section. If you have a lot of experience outside of accounting, you might find it useful to create a separate section for those called "Other Experience", while creating a dedicated section for accounting called "Accounting Experience" or "Relevant Experience."

Demonstrate your experience as an Accountant using bullet points

2.1: highlight relevant achievements using bullet points..

Bullet points make resumes easy to skim through for the hiring managers who are actually going to read your resume. Plus, they're also the most conventional resume format and is what hiring managers expect to see. Remember to always focus your bullet points on clear achievements, ideally involving accounting with things like accounts reconciliation or bookkeeping. For example: Identified discrepancies in reports totaling $125,000, resulting in crediting money back to the direct group This is a good example of a bullet point to use in your accounting resume.

2.2: Emphasize your attention to detail by using action verbs

Use strong action verbs to demonstrate your achievements as an accountant. Strong action verbs like "analyzed," "audited," "calculated," and "computed" show that you were tasked with accounting-related responsibilities and highlight your attention to detail - an important skill set recruiters want to see through your bullet points.

2.3: Emphasize your accomplishments.

Avoid things that fit more into a job description, like "I was tasked with keeping books." Instead, focus on achievements by saying something like, " Reduced the company's tax penalties by 10% in just one financial year as a tax accountant."

Optimize your skills to make them easier for an Applicant Tracking System to pick out

3.1: tailor your resume to the specific accounting job posting..

Tailoring your resume to suit the specific accounting job ensures the Applicant Tracking System finds it relevant to the job posting. For example, if applying for a Payroll Accountant position, your resume should show you have skills in payroll administration, payroll processing, and ADP payroll.

3.2: Include relevant keywords in the skills section.

Ensure you include skills relevant to the accounting job you are applying for in the skills sections, as these are the keywords the ATS system will look for as it scans the resume. For example, if applying for a tax accountant position, include keywords like "tax" and "reporting."

Polish up your Accountant resume

4.1: add a summary section if you are applying for a senior accountant position..

A summary is optional, but it is good to have it at the top of your resume if applying for a senior accountant position or switching careers to an accountant role. Summaries provide an easy way to direct the hiring manager to particular achievements that don't have space on other parts of your resume.

4.2: Include relevant certifications.

If you have any relevant certifications, honors, or awards related to your accounting profession, including them is a good idea. For example, you can include your CFA, CPA, or CMA certifications even if the job advertisement does not require you to have them.

Skills For Accountant Resumes

Many people think of accounting as a data-centric job -- and it is. You do need to have excellent math and data analysis skills because you’ll spend much of your time working with numbers. However, there is also a collaborative aspect to being an accountant; you’ll probably work in teams with others, and in some roles, you’ll give presentations and reports to management that will help guide their financial decision-making. Being a great accountant requires a blend of technical and people skills. So give plenty of examples from your prior work experiences where you’ve developed and used these abilities. Talk about how you’ve successfully managed expenses, conducted account analyses, and worked on project teams. Make sure to also list your software proficiencies (such as QuickBooks and Oracle) and other hard skills in a separate skills section.

• Accounts Receivable (AR)
• Account Reconciliation
• Accounts Payable
• General Ledger
• Journal Entries
• Bank Reconciliation
• Financial Reporting
• Financial Statements
• Financial Accounting
• Financial Analysis
• Accounts Payable & Receivable
• Cash Collection

How To Write Your Skills Section On an Accountant Resumes

You can include the above skills in a dedicated Skills section on your resume, or weave them in your experience. Here's how you might create your dedicated skills section:

Skills Word Cloud For Accountant Resumes

This word cloud highlights the important keywords that appear on Accountant job descriptions and resumes. The bigger the word, the more frequently it appears on job postings, and the more 'important' it is.

How to use these skills?

Resume bullet points from accountant resumes.

You should use bullet points to describe your achievements in your Accountant resume. Here are sample bullet points to help you get started:

Collaborated with 10 department managers and peers to develop and implement policies and procedures that increased internal efficiency by 20%.

Provided excellent customer service, effectively reducing customer complaints from 65% to 23% within the first 8 months.

Introduced a new invoicing system that reduced month-end turnaround time by 15%.

Filed payroll tax and sales tax for over 50 international customers each month.

Led annual budget preparation, performed departmental and account variances, and managed the standard costing globally for 4 sites.

For more sample bullet points and details on how to write effective bullet points, see our articles on resume bullet points , how to quantify your resume and resume accomplishments .

Frequently Asked Questions on Accountant Resumes

What should be in your resume to get a job as an accountant, what resume skills should you include in your accounting resume, what are examples of strong accounting accomplishments i can include on my resume.

• Saving money: Explain how your accounting methods helped reduce accounting error rates and resulted in savings for the organization.
• Revenue: Explain the extent to which your work helped your company generate revenue. List the value of assets you oversaw and the amount of money under your care.
• Regulatory compliance: How did your interpretation of accounting rules help your company stay compliant and save money in fines and fees?
• Vendor and client relations: State the number of individual client accounts that you handled and the period that you retained them. Explain how you assessed vendors and handled their invoices.
• Management: Mention the number of junior accountants that you mentored and how you liaised with senior executives to achieve the company’s vision.

What should a senior accountant include on their resume?

What are examples of strong bullet points i can include on my accounting resume.

Audited departmental acquisition protocols and recovered $10M in overstated expenses. Managed a team of 13 tax specialists, increasing division’s revenue by 15% year-on-year. Implemented simpler journaling systems using Excel for a team of 70+ accounting clerks, reducing closing time by an average of 3 days.

Other Finance Resumes

Cost analyst.

Credit Analyst

Procurement

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Accountant Resume Guide

• Equity Research Resume Guide
• C-Level and Executive Resume Guide
• Financial Advisor Resume Guide
• Procurement Resume Guide
• Auditor Resume Guide
• Financial Controller Resume Guide
• Risk Management Resume Guide
• Accounts Payable Resume Guide
• Internal Audit Resume Guide
• Purchasing Manager Resume Guide
• Loan Processor Resume Guide
• Finance Director Resume Guide
• Credit Analyst Resume Guide
• Collections Specialist Resume Guide
• Finance Executive Resume Guide
• VP of Finance Resume Guide
• Claims Adjuster Resume Guide
• Payroll Specialist Resume Guide
• Cost Analyst Resume Guide
• M&A Resume Guide
• Accountant Resume Example
• Accounting Clerk Resume Example
• Accounting Manager Resume Example
• Senior Accountant / Accounting Executive Resume Example
• Entry Level Accountant Resume Example
• Staff Accountant Resume Example
• Cost Accountant Resume Example
• Payroll Accountant Resume Example
• Accounting Assistant Resume Example
• Tax Accountant Resume Example
• Accounting Specialist Resume Example
• Junior Accountant Resume Example
• Project Accountant Resume Example
• Public Accountant Resume Example
• Fund Accountant Resume Example
• Senior Tax Accountant Resume Example
• Property Accountant Resume Example
• Experienced Accountant Resume Example
• Construction Accountant Resume Example
• Fixed Asset Accountant Resume Example
• Corporate Accountant Resume Example
• Revenue Accountant Resume Example
• Chief Accounting Officer Resume Example
• Director of Accounting Resume Example
• Tips for Accountant Resumes
• Skills and Keywords to Add
• Sample Bullet Points from Top Resumes
• All Resume Examples
• Accountant CV Examples
• Accountant Cover Letter
• Accountant Interview Guide
• Explore Alternative and Similar Careers

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• • Reduced errors in financial reports by 20% through implementation of new processes and controls.
• • Managed the successful implementation of a new accounting system, resulting in a 30% decrease in processing time.
• • Collaborated with the tax department to identify and reduce the company's tax liability, resulting in a savings of $500,000.
• • Implemented a new budgeting process, reducing budget variances by 15%.
• • Developed financial models to support the launch of a new product line, resulting in a projected revenue increase of $2 million.
• • Collaborated with the procurement department to negotiate new supplier contracts, resulting in a cost savings of $1 million.
• • Prepared tax returns for individual and corporate clients, resulting in $500,000 in tax savings.
• • Conducted financial statement analysis and identified areas for improvement, resulting in a 10% increase in revenue for a client.
• • Assisted with audit support for a client and helped to identify $1 million in cost savings through process improvement.

32 Accountant Resume Examples & Guide for 2024

Accounting plays a crucial role in managing financial records, ensuring compliance, and providing insights for decision-making. Highlighting your experience with financial reporting, tax preparation, and budgeting will strengthen your resume. Incorporating analytical thinking, attention to detail, and proficiency in accounting software can make a significant impact. Demonstrating your ability to improve processes and contribute to cost-saving initiatives will clearly communicate your worth to potential employers.

All resume examples in this guide

Accounting Intern

Entry-Level Accountant

Junior Cost Accountant

Senior Accountant

Senior Tax Accountant

Accounting Analyst

Accounting Assistant

Accounting Supervisor

Big 4 Accounting

Construction Accounting

Corporate Accounting

Cost Accounting

Director of Accounting

Financial Accounting

Forensic Accounting

Full Cycle Accounting

Functional Accounting

Fund Accountant

General Ledger Accounting

Government Accounting

Hotel Accounting

Management Accounting

Oracle Project Accounting

Project Accounting

Public Accounting

Purchase Accounting

Tax Accountant

Onboarding Accountant

Staff Accountant

Revenue Tax Accountant

Resume guide, accountant resume sample.

Resume format

Resume experience

Entry-level resume

Hard & soft skills

Certifications & Education

Resume summary

Additional sections

In conclusion

By Experience

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics , employment of accountants is projected to grow by 4% from 2022 to 2032. However, the job comes with its challenges. Difficult clients, poor resourcing, unrealistic deadlines, and bosses who think accounting software does all the work are common hurdles. Even if you excel at the actual job, you still need to navigate the recruiting process.

When searching for an accounting job, your resume must stand out. Highlight your financial skills and detail your experience in managing records. Use this guide to create a resume that makes a strong impression on recruiters.

Key takeaways

• Organize your work history and career advancement in accounting in reverse chronological order.
• Develop a compelling resume summary that emphasizes your key qualifications, accounting approach, and significant accomplishments.
• Present both technical and interpersonal skills, including expertise in accounting software and strong analytical capabilities.
• Underscore the impact of your accounting work using specific metrics.
• Tailor your resume for each job by aligning your skills and experiences with the specific requirements of the position.
• Share details about your education and relevant certifications to show you're qualified and knowledgeable in accounting.
• If you don't have work experience, highlight any internships, personal projects and volunteer work that prove your accounting skills.

An impactful resume for accountants is essential, so let’s explore the best way to format it to underline your skills and expertise.

Below, you’ll find an accountant resume sample to guide you.

Andrew Green

[email protected]  | @linkedin.com | San Francisco, California

Detail-oriented and organized Accountant with 4 years of experience managing financial transactions, preparing accurate financial statements, and ensuring compliance with tax regulations. Proficient in QuickBooks and Excel, with a strong understanding of GAAP and a proven track record of maintaining accurate records.

Smith & Associates, San Francisco, CA

June 2020 - Present

• Managed accounts payable and receivable, ensuring timely and accurate processing of transactions.
• Reconciled bank statements monthly, identifying and resolving discrepancies to maintain financial accuracy.
• Prepared financial statements, including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements, resulting in timely reporting.
• Assisted with budgeting and forecasting, providing detailed financial analysis to support decision-making.
• Maintained accurate and up-to-date accounting records, improving record-keeping efficiency by 15%.

Junior Accountant

Financial Solutions Inc., San Francisco, CA

June 2018 - May 2020

• Supported the accounting team with daily tasks, including data entry and financial report generation.
• Assisted in the preparation of monthly financial statements, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
• Performed bank reconciliations and identified discrepancies, contributing to financial accuracy.
• Participated in internal audits, verifying the accuracy of financial records and controls.

Bachelor of Science in Accounting

University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA

2014 - 2018

• Related Coursework:  Advanced Accounting Principles, Taxation and Business Strategy, Financial Statement Analysis, Auditing and Assurance Services, Managerial Accounting, Corporate Finance
• Certifications
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
• QuickBooks Certified User
• Financial Reporting
• Tax Compliance
• Accounts Payable and Receivable
• Bank Reconciliations
• Budgeting and Forecasting
• Microsoft Excel
• English (Fluent)
• Spanish (Intermediate)

How to format an accountant resume

There are three main formats  to consider for your accountant resume: reverse chronological, functional, and combination. Typically, the reverse chronological format  is the most effective choice for this type of resume.

This approach organizes your job experience from the newest position to the oldest, focusing on your professional development and practical experience. It suits applicants with a steady accounting career, effectively illustrating their advancement and relevant qualifications.

Here's the ideal order for your resume sections, which we'll cover in detail later:

• Summary/objective
• Professional experience

This structure is preferred by recruiters for its natural and appealing organization.

Now, let's dive into the specifics:

Resume designs

• Keep consistent margins  of about 1 inch to maintain readability, and opt for a two-column template  for a sleek, professional appearance.
• Choose straightforward fonts  like Rubik or Lato, sized between 10 and 12 points, and choose soft colors  to highlight your skills.
• Limit the resume to one page  if you have less than 10 years of experience, but senior professionals can extend it to two pages  if needed.

Contact information

• Make sure your name is spelled the same way across all your application documents. Match the job title on your resume to the one you're applying for. For instance, if the job is for a Tax Accountant, use those exact words on your resume. This helps streamline the hiring process.
• Add a resume headline  to emphasize your key skills and experiences, which is particularly helpful in the diverse field of accounting.
• Provide a professional email address  and include a link to your LinkedIn profile , if it’s up-to-date.
• To adhere to US resume standards and prevent biases, don’t include a photo of yourself .

File format

• Use a straightforward file name  like "AndrewGreenAccountantResume.pdf" so recruiters can easily find your resume.
• Save your resume as a PDF  unless the job posting requests a different format. PDFs maintain formatting and are easily parsed by ATS .

Don’t fear the ATS. Focus on matching the job description language, formatting dates and bullet points correctly. Plus, avoid keyword stuffing. Keep your resume clear and readable for both systems and humans.

Want to know if your resume is ATS-friendly? Check it with our free AI tool below!

Is your resume good enough?

Drop your resume here or choose a file . PDF & DOCX only. Max 2MB file size.

Once the resume format is set, let's emphasize your experience in accounting.

How to write your accountant resume experience

Including your professional experience on an accountant's resume is important because it underscores your hands-on skills, builds trust, and shows your experience in managing finances. It demonstrates to potential employers your expertise in real-world accounting.

Emphasize your major accomplishments with quantifiable results, such as increasing financial efficiency, reducing expenses, and improving accuracy.

Ensure your resume is clear and structured by using bullet points  and listing your experience in reverse chronological order. Tailor your resume to the job requirements to convince the recruiter you’re the right candidate.

Why to tailor your accountant resume to the job description and hot to do it correctly

Tailoring your resume  to the job description ensures that your most relevant qualifications are front and center. This strategy helps you stand out and can make a big difference in getting noticed by hiring managers. By mentioning the exact skills and experiences the employer needs, you make it easy for them to see why you’re a great fit for the job.

This is known as a targeted resume . But how to do it in the right way?

Here are some useful tips:

• Read the job offer carefully and find out the skills and qualifications outlined, and weave these specific keywords  into your job descriptions .
• Spotlight elements of your prior roles that correlate with the new job’s requirements, such as proficiency in accounting tools, financial analysis, or budget oversight.
• Quantify your achievements  to illustrate the results of your contributions, such as "lowered expenses by 10%."
• Underline job titles and duties that align closely with the position you're applying for, even if it necessitates emphasizing particular aspects of your past experience.

Here’s an example of an accountant job listing we’ll focus on to customize our work experience  entry. Take a look at the job details.

The Accountant will:

• Manage all aspects of the accounting cycle , including accounts payable and receivable, bank reconciliations, and journal entries.
• Reconcile bank statements and identify discrepancies
• Prepare accurate and timely financial statements , such as balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements.
• Assist with budgeting and forecasting .
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date accounting records
• Calculate and file federal, state, and local taxes.
• Analyze financial data  and trends to identify areas for improvement.
• Maintain strong internal controls and ensure adherence to accounting policies and procedures.
• Ensure compliance  with all relevant accounting standards and tax regulations
• Communicate effectively with other departments, such as sales and operations.
• Stay up-to-date on current tax laws and accounting standards.
• May participate in audits or respond to inquiries from auditors

Required skills

• Minimum of 3—4 years of experience  in a similar role.
• Strong understanding of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) .
• Proficient in accounting software, such as Unanet, UKG, or QuickBooks .
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills .
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Excellent communication  and interpersonal skills.
• Government contracts experience is a plus
• Strong experience with Microsoft Excel  is preferred

Let's take a look at how we've customized the entry below:

• • Handled all aspects of the accounting cycle, including accounts payable and receivable, bank reconciliations, and journal entries, managing transactions worth over $5M each year.
• • Reconciled bank statements and pinpointed discrepancies, cutting errors by 1o% and ensuring financial records were accurate.
• • Assisted in budgeting and forecasting, which led to a 12% boost in budget accuracy.
• • Kept accounting records up-to-date and accurate, enhancing record-keeping efficiency by 20%.
• • Applied GAAP to maintain compliance and improve financial accuracy.
• • Used accounting software like QuickBooks to streamline financial processes, boosting efficiency by 20%.

Now the customized resume fit the job ad requirements because it:

• Highlights GAAP application for compliance and accuracy improvement.
• Emphasizes QuickBooks use, boosting process efficiency by 20%, meeting technical skill needs.
• Demonstrates impact with metrics: managing $5M transactions, reducing errors by 10%, improving efficiency by 20%.
• Covers essential skills: handling accounts, reconciling statements, budgeting, and accurate record-keeping.
• Suggests strong Excel proficiency with 12% budgeting accuracy and 20% efficiency improvements.

How to quantify your experience on a resume

Using numbers and results on your resume is key—it brings your achievements to life. If possible include specific metrics like percentages, dollar amounts, or other clear figures to prove your impact.

For instance, an accountant’s experience section could include these bullet points:

• Include metrics on improving financial accuracy, such as "increased budget accuracy by 12% through detailed forecasting."
• Underscore cost-saving achievements, such as "reduced operational costs by 15% through expense audits and vendor negotiations."
• Detail revenue growth contributions, such as "boosted revenue by 10% through efficient billing and collection practices."
• Mention process improvements, such as "enhanced record-keeping efficiency by 20% with automated accounting software."
• Specify compliance improvements, such as "ensured 100% compliance with tax regulations, avoiding penalties and fines."

Even if you're just starting out in accounting, this strategy can help you shine. Discover how in the next section.

How do I write an accountant resume with no experience

Diving into an accounting career can be both exciting and demanding, particularly if you lack extensive experience. But don’t stress! You can still put together an accountant resume that highlights your potential and makes you shine.

Here are some helpful tips:

• Use a functional resume  format to spotlight your skills and academic accomplishments.
• Opt for a simple template  to maintain a professional appearance despite limited experience.
• Detail relevant coursework  and academic projects that show your grasp of accounting principles and problem-solving abilities.
• Show recruiters that you possess the technical skills  and familiarity with accounting software, like QuickBooks or Excel, required for the role by underlining your technical training or courses.
• Focus on your transferable skills . Summer jobs or internships, even if unrelated  to accounting, can help you develop valuable skills like financial analysis or data entry, so be sure to include them.
• Highlight any practical experience with financial documents, such as creating balance sheets or income statements.
• Add volunteer experience  or extracurricular activities that involve accounting responsibilities or teamwork.

Resume objective for entry-level accountant

On an entry-level resume  for accountants, an objective statement  is important because it demonstrates your career goals and eagerness to enter the field, even if you have little work experience .

For a top-notch objective statement, make sure to:

• State your career goals or the position you're interested in.
• Shape it to the role and employer, incorporating keywords from the job listing to show your goals align with their requirements.
• Emphasize the key skills or qualifications that will assure hiring managers that you are an ideal candidate.
• Illustrate how your abilities can benefit the company and contribute to its success.

Let's delve into examples of effective objective statements.

Now that your experience is clear, let’s move to the skills section  of your accountant resume.

How to list your hard and soft skills on your resume

Having both soft and hard skills  on your accounting resume is crucial. It demonstrates that you're not only proficient with numbers but also effective in dealing with people, making you an ideal candidate for the role.

Here's a closer look:

• Hard skills are the core competencies  of your job. These include abilities you've acquired through education and experience, such as proficiency with accounting software, preparing financial statements, and handling tax filings.
• Soft skills  focus on how you interact with others. They encompass your communication abilities, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.

Here are some specific suggestions that you can include in your resume.

Best hard skills for your accountant resume

• Oracle Financials

Here are some key people skills  that are in high demand for accountants. These skills should be woven into various resume sections , such as the summary or experience parts, where they can be easily quantified and described. For example, you could demonstrate problem-solving like this: “Resolved discrepancies in financial records, saving the company $50,000 annually.”

Best soft skills for your accountant resume

• Attention to detail
• Problem-solving
• Organization
• Adaptability
• Analytical thinking
• Time management
• Work ethics
• Communication
• Multitasking
• Conflict resolution
• Critical thinking
• Customer service
• Negotiation skills
• Decision making

Now that the essential skills for accountants are clear, it's important to focus on certifications and education. These qualifications are key to demonstrating your commitment and expertise.

How to list your certifications and education on your resume

Your resume’s education section needs to reflect your primary accounting and technical competencies. Customize this section to match the job description, similar to your work experience. Employers review this to verify that you possess the necessary training to support your abilities.

Must-haves for your education section :

• Degree and major
• University name
• Graduation date
• Relevant coursework
• Honors and awards

Take a moment to see an example tailored to the job description shared below.

• • Completed coursework in Financial Accounting, Taxation, and Auditing.
• • Participated in the Accounting Club and served as the Treasurer.
• • Graduated with honors.
• • Conducted a senior project on event management and customer service.

This example effectively demonstrates a well-rounded educational background, tailored to an accountant's role, for several reasons:

• It includes a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, showcasing a solid educational foundation.
• The entry includes the degree/diploma, institution, location, and date range, providing a clear and complete picture of the applicant's educational history.
• Specific bullet points highlight relevant coursework, achievements, and extracurricular activities. This shows the candidate's active engagement and excellence in their field.
• Including the GPA  for the Bachelor's degree demonstrates academic excellence, making the candidate more attractive to potential employers.

You can further improve your resume by adding a solid certifications section. Accountants may not always need specific certifications, but having them can improve your qualifications and career prospects.

Best certifications for your accountant resume

• Certified Management Accountant (CMA)
• Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)
• Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA)
• Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

Your educational background is set, so let's create an engaging resume summary  that captures your professional strengths as an accountant.

How to write your accountant resume summary

Acting as a critical section of an accountant's resume, the summary offers a brief yet impactful introduction to your career milestones. It’s meant to capture hiring managers' interest by highlighting the most impressive aspects of your professional path.

Make your accountant summary impressive with these practical tips:

• State your years of experience in accounting to highlight your expertise.
• Emphasize key skills relevant to the position, such as proficiency in accounting software, tax compliance, or financial reporting.
• Quantify your achievements to provide concrete proof of your impact.
• Customize your summary to mirror the language and requirements of the job listing, underlining how your background makes you the perfect fit.

Check this good example.

This summary demonstrates key accounting experience and certifications, using specific achievements to prove impact. It uses strong action words  and metrics to show the applicant's proactive approach.

Now that you have the knowledge, you can design a powerful resume. Use Enhancv’s resume builder  to tailor your content and layout perfectly.

Additional sections for an accountant resume

Adding optional sections to an accountant's resume lets you show a wider variety of skills and experiences, setting you apart by showcasing distinctive aspects of your professional journey.

Additional sections to include if you have space:

• Professional affiliations :  Indicates your involvement in the accounting community, such as memberships in AICPA  or IMA , enhancing your credibility and showing ongoing professional development.
• Passions: Any hobbies can reflect your personality  and suggest a well-rounded character, potentially aligning personal passions with financial analysis and management trends.
• Language skills : Illustrates your ability to communicate in multiple languages, which is valuable in diverse teams and international accounting contexts.

This guide provides key strategies for creating an impressive accountant resume, boosting your chances of attracting hiring managers. By showcasing your skills, experiences, and unique traits, you're setting yourself up for a successful career move.

Accounting resume examples

Explore additional accounting resume samples and guides and see what works for your level of experience or role.

Looking to build your own Accounting resume?

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Frequently asked questions about accountant resumes

How long should i make my accountant resume, what is the best format for an accountant resume, which accountant skills are most important to add to your resume, how can i make my accountant resume stand out, should i include a cover letter with my accountant resume, how can i showcase my achievements on an accountant resume, professional associations on resume, dates on resume: how to format, templates & tips, follow-up emails that will get you hired, stay or go: navigating the gray area of quitting a new job, cover letter salutation that entices the recruiter to learn more about you, what to do when i forget to attach my resume.

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Accountant Resume Examples and Templates for 2024

• Resume Examples
• Resume Text Examples

How To Write an Accountant Resume

• Entry-Level
• Senior-level

Accountant Text-Only Resume Templates and Examples

• Senior-Level

Michael Hamill (123) 456-7890 | [email protected] | Los Angeles, CA 33333 | www.linkedin.com/example

College graduate with CPA certification and nearly two years of accounting internship experience. Fast learner able to work long and flexible hours. Equally effective working independently or on a team.

• Accounts payable and receivable
• Budget planning and forecasting
• Reporting and documentation
• Team collaboration
• Time management

Bachelor of Science (BS) – Accounting (minor in Business Administration), Los Angeles University, Los Angeles, CA | 2022 3.9 GPA | magna cum laude | Member of the university’s chapter of the Accounting Society

Professional Experience

Accounting Intern, Woolworth’s Incorporated, Los Angeles, CA | August 2021 to present

• Help prepare debit and credit documents for over 100 clients
• Facilitate weekly audits of varying accounts to ensure accuracy
• Organize and maintain records for many clients and vendors
• Collaborate with other interns on key projects
• Perform complex accounting procedures, and assist support staff

Highlights:

• Ranked No. 3 out of 15 team members for both efficiency and accuracy
• Helped team leader develop four new initiatives for better internal communications and organization

Technical Skills 

Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) | NetSuite | QuickBooks | Quicken | ZipBooks

Tammy Jones (123) 456-7890 | [email protected] | Sacramento, CA 12345 | www.linkedin.com/example

Organized accounting professional with a record of success helping clients decrease costs, balance books, and reconcile accounts. Naturally curious and committed to gaining and applying new expertise. Bilingual: Fluent in English and Spanish.

• Account reconciliation
• Client relations
• Cost reduction and elimination
• Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP)
• Statutory Accounting Principles (SAP) accounting system

Accounting Specialist, XYZ Accountants, Sacramento, CA | January 2012 to present

• Ensure accuracy of all transactions with clients, vendors, and employees
• Collaborative role working closely with managers and other staff members
• Identified and averted over $250,000 in lost revenue from bank errors
• Won “Accounting Expert of the Month” five times for outstanding diligence and accuracy
• Enhanced client relationships by actively addressing and resolving late payments

Bachelor of Science — Accounting (minor in Business Administration), Sacramento University, Sacramento, CA

Fluency in Spanish | Proficiency in Italian

Ann Smith (123) 789-6788 | [email protected] | Fort Worth, TX 11111 | www.linkedin.com/example

CPA dedicated to raising companies’ bottom line. Skilled at preparing financial reports, reconciling accounts, collecting money owed, and completing special projects. Adapt readily to new work challenges and industry conditions.

• Accounting software (QuickBooks, Quicken)
• Accounts receivable
• Financial report preparation
• General ledger accounting
• Process streamlining
• Project management

Senior Accountant, Brown & Associates, Fort Worth, TX | January 2015 to present

• Streamline work processes to improve productivity of a 100-person workforce
• Prepare monthly closing and profit and loss (P&L) statements for managers and board of directors
• Advise company president on financial issues and considerations
• Found and recovered about $120,000 in lost revenue through bank reconciliation
• Introduced accounting best practices that decreased company financial errors by 10% in five years

Staff Accountant, Tom Smith Accountant, College Place, TX | August 2008 to December 2014

• Coordinated benefits for a staff of more than 20
• Generated weekly payroll and bonuses, and checked for accuracy with time
• Investigated and resolved any discrepancies with bank accounts
• Collaborated with senior financial officers to print and distribute quarterly financial statements

Bachelor of Science (BS) — Accounting, University of Texas, Austin | 2014

Certification

• CPA, Association of Certified Public Accountants

Whether you’d like to work with companies, nonprofits, or individual clients, you can write a great accountant resume by showing your skill at building financial success and stability. The following tips and examples will assist you in exploring this topic and creating compelling content for each section of your accounting job resume.

1. Craft an outstanding profile with a summary of your accountant qualifications

In a brief paragraph at the top of your resume, the Profile should name three to five key reasons why you deliver strong accounting oversight and support. By showcasing your top qualifications this way, you can assure target employers you’re a fit for the accountant role they want to fill.

For example, maybe you have a reputation for helping businesses find and remove unnecessary costs. Or perhaps you’ve worked on successful initiatives for better legal compliance. Alternatively, you may have years of experience with startup budgets, and that’s a key focus of the accounting jobs you’re now after. You can also cite reasons outside your accounting work experience – for instance, a recently finished master’s degree or advanced certification that sets you apart.

Mid-Career Profile Example

Senior-level profile example.

Certified public accountant (CPA) dedicated to raising companies’ bottom lines. Skilled at preparing financial reports, reconciling accounts, collecting money owed, and completing special projects. Adapt readily to new work challenges and industry conditions.

2. Add a compelling section featuring your accountant experience

Under each past accounting job, give quantified examples of your helping people or organizations improve their financial position. For example, you may have developed cost analyses that enabled your organization to improve its bottom line. Perhaps you designed a system to prepare your taxes faster and more accurately. Or you depleted a backlog of late payments. Examples like these show hiring managers you can generate similar fiscal solutions for their company.

For any non-accounting jobs in your recent work history , focus your description on the transferable skills you gained. Say you worked as a receptionist – you could use this job description to emphasize client relations, careful documentation, or any other skill areas you expect to use in your next accounting job.

Entry-Level Experience Example

Accounting intern, Woolworth’s Incorporated, Los Angeles, CA | August 2021 to present

• Facilitate weekly audit of varying accounts to ensure accuracy
• Perform complex accounting procedures and assist support staff

Mid-Career Experience Example

3. include accountant-related education and certifications.

View the Education and Certifications sections as another chance to show your expertise in supporting clients’ or employers’ financial health. Give at least the basic details on your highest degree in finance or accounting and any other postsecondary degrees you’ve earned. Also, share details on your CPA or other accounting-related certifications. With these credentials on your resume, you can assure hiring managers you’ll draw on a solid knowledge base when offering financial analysis and solutions.

Below are templates and examples to help you format your education and certification details. Note that optional template items appear in [brackets].

• Degree Name — [Concentration], School Name, City, ST | [Year]
• [#.# GPA] | [academic honors or awards]
• Bachelor of Science (BS) — Accounting (minor in Business Administration), Los Angeles University, Los Angeles, CA | 2022
• Certification Name or Title, [Awarding Organization] | [Year]

4. Outline your most useful accountant skills and proficiencies

Include a “Key Skills” section on your resume to show the various ways you help build and ensure financial success. For most accountants, this section should cover expense reduction, financial reporting, and complex problem-solving. You may also want to name the specific technical programs or accounting software you’ve used, like advanced Excel or QuickBooks (but if you have five or more, consider making them their own “Technical Skills” section). Below are some common accounting skills you may add to your “Key Skills” section:

How To Pick the Best Accountant Resume Template

As with most vocations, accountants should use a resume template that’s clear and straightforward. Opt for a visual design that lets the hiring manager quickly review your most impressive career details. Use a simple resume font , and avoid any template that has an overly colorful or elaborate design.

Frequently Asked Questions: Accountant Resume Examples and Advice

What are common action verbs for accountant resumes -.

One of the best ways to enhance your resume is by using a good mix of action verbs in your Experience section. Strong verbs for accountants include “secure,” “reconcile,” and “reinforce.” The following list will help you brainstorm and write about the various ways you’ve made an impact in your accounting career so far:

How do you align your accountant resume with a job posting? -

The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts that jobs for accountants will increase by about 6% between 2021 and 2031. This growth rate is roughly the same as the average for all U.S. vocations.

You can get more interviews in this growing field if you tailor your resume to each application. For example, if the job post calls for someone with a collaborative streak, you may want to emphasize that aspect of your experience in your Profile and Key Skills sections. Or say the company has many non-English speaking clients or business partners. In that case, highlight your foreign language skills both in your Profile and as a separate section farther down the document. With adjustments like these, you can make your resume more relevant to each opportunity in your job search.

What is the best accountant resume format? -

In nearly all cases, use a Combination (or Hybrid) resume because it’s easiest for hiring managers to learn about your relevant skills and experience. It’s also simplest for you to modify based on your job goals. With the Combination format, you highlight your most relevant skills and background in your Experience or Work History section and an intro section. (This combination of work history and intro content is where the format gets its name.) Your resume intro usually should include a Profile summary and Key Skills section, but you may also include an Awards or Career Highlights section.

To increase your chances of an interview, write a strong cover letter. The key to an effective letter is customizing it based on each job opening. Read our accountant cover letter guide to learn how. For other related examples, see our bookkeeper and finance cover letter guides.

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Jacob Meade

Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW, ACRW)

Jacob Meade is a resume writer and editor with nearly a decade of experience. His writing method centers on understanding and then expressing each person’s unique work history and strengths toward their career goal. Jacob has enjoyed working with jobseekers of all ages and career levels, finding that a clear and focused resume can help people from any walk of life. He is an Academy Certified Resume Writer (ACRW) with the Resume Writing Academy, and a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with the Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches.

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