Top Tips for Accounting Internships

Pursuing a degree in accounting? Wondering what kind of accounting job is in your future? Accounting internships can provide an excellent doorway to an entry-level job. The internship offers experience in the job role and what to expect in an accounting job. Plus, the experience can expose you to career opportunities in the company where you interned and help you meet people who may know of other possibilities. Many employers train future employees through internship programs, so an accounting internship is a great way to find your first professional job after graduation.

Want to do an accounting internship while studying or a summer internship? Good decision! Making a good impression as an intern can lead to full-time employment. To help you, GradSiren provides everything you need to know about accounting internships in the US. We gathered the best information from people who have completed their internships while studying then placed in top firms.

When and Where to Apply for Accounting Internships

Internship opportunities are available for students of all levels of study. However, it’s best to apply as a junior or senior, well before graduation. This is usually the earliest stage in internship opportunities for accounting. Your internship may take place over the summer, but sometimes it can overlap with classes.

GradSiren is one of the best internship job portals for college grads. You can search for the latest accounting internships here and apply with one click. But before applying, take a few minutes to check out the following tips.

Things To Do Before Applying for Internships

• First of all, learn more about the industry. Accounting as a job is different from accounting in a classroom, and it can be a bit overwhelming. Plus, jobs are different depending on the firms you’re interested in. Each and every firm will vary, and your job requirements and experience will be different too.
• So, figure out what your ultimate goals are. Since you may be offered a job after successful completion of your internship, choose a company where you’ll want to say, “Yes!”
• Do you want opportunities for advancement in the same company? Choose a large firm or one with offices in different cities, states, and even countries. Are you more comfortable working with a small group of people? Apply at smaller companies, and think about how far you want to go. What kind of career growth are you looking for? If you want to eventually earn more money and have more responsibility, plan on applying at other companies later on.
• Just make sure of your career plans when applying for accounting internships and be particular. Most large accounting companies offer many opportunities. Apply for the one that best matches your interests.
• You’ll need the best resume possible for an internship application, just like a regular job. Try to include practical work experience in your resume along with academic qualifications. Even membership in accounting clubs or volunteer work attracts employers more than just coursework. It shows you’re serious about your chosen career.
• When you find an internship opportunity on job portals, apply right away or within three or four days. Even if the internship position won’t start for several months, don’t delay more than a week. Want to have the best possible chance to be selected? Get notified when new internships are posted so you don’t miss an opportunity.
• Accounting firms are searching for new interns almost constantly, but you never know when each one gets filled. So apply for each attractive accounting internship opening as early as possible.

Things To Know for Internship Interviews

• Prepare for interviews by learning about recent developments in accounting in general and in each company you choose.  Learn names and positions in leading accounting firms, find out who’s who, and see how big the company is. How many employees are there? What have the company earnings been like, and how fast is it growing? When was it started and who founded it? Learn everything you can so you can speak knowledgeably and with confidence during your interview.
• You’ll also want to evaluate your communication skills, soft skills, and how to show off your personality. What are your strengths? What are your weaknesses? Do you have any bad communication skills like using a lot of slang or not using proper English? Being aware of your habits is the first step to improving your skills and landing an internship.
• In the professional world, confidence and a friendly attitude stand out. And this is your chance to stand out from the rest. Practice shaking hands professionally, making eye contact when you speak, and sitting up straight during conversations with friends. It will serve you well during your internship interviews.
• Usually, recruiters prefer accounting graduates who can serve the entire length of the internship. They want to hire interns who take things seriously because this saves them from replacement. So be sure to choose an internship that’s offered at a time that works for you, and be sure to tell the recruiter or manager you’re available and fully committed.

Accounting Interns Must Follow Rules, Regulations, and Mentors’ Instructions

As you probably know, an accounting internship can mean following strict rules. You’ll be working in an important area of the company—financial—and you have to show how trustworthy you are. Whether you’re looking for a tax internship or one in public accounting or another area, be prepared to be helpful, trustworthy, and willing to learn the ropes and follow instructions. And get ready for internship experiences that might mean long hours.

A Few Final Tips

• Many college students and accounting interns can be introverted and not very outgoing. You’re not expected to be talkative, but you will need to ask questions about your work assignments. Take notes with explanations given by senior people, and prepare questions after each workday or first thing in the morning. Talk with people to build a network for a wide range of job opportunities when you graduate or the internship is over.
• Don’t assume you know everything. Even if you’re graduating with honors and have a perfect “A” grade average, there’s a lot you don’t know. Classroom studies are nothing like hands-on experience. Keeping an open mind and a learner’s attitude will develop your skills and improve practical knowledge.

In summary!

Check out How to be Pro During Internships. This will help you turn your accounting internship into an entry-level accountant job in the company.

We hope this article helps you and answers for your questions about accounting internships. And don’t forget to read our article about the benefits about internships. Want to know more about autumn internship opportunities? Follow the link.