[altomas989]

Hi everyone

So I could use some advice. I’ve studied and worked abroad in a public accounting firm for 4 years and came back to the US two years ago. For the past year I have been in college to get enough credits for the cpa and I’m nearly done. Unfortunately I have never been able to find an accounting job. I’ve applied to jobs both in private and public accounting but no luck. A career adviser said it would be very difficult for me since most of my education/work was abroad and I would have a difficult time convincing a recruiter to hire me. They said I should get my cpa asap but realistically that will take time. Anyone know what I should do?

[CPYay]

It sounds like you may be well-versed in IFRS, is that correct? There are many US Firms who could use that expertise, especially if they consolidate financial statements internationally.

If so, maybe restructure your resume to list some of these understandings. Also, instead of listing responsibilities for jobs, list some accomplishments. Broad example: instead of saying you are efficient with Excel, say you introduced Excel formulas/macros for a particular process, increasing productivity and reducing errors.

Use more action words, etc. Restructuring your resume alone can lead to increased visibility.

[altomas989]

@CPYay Thank you for your advice. I mention knowledge of IFRS in my resume, I will expand on it if it will help. I mention accomplishments, but I am not the best writer so I wonder if I am selling myself effectively… What really worries me is the long gap in employment and my experience not being enough for potential employers.

[simpleinterest]

Just curious, how many applications have you submitted and have you gotten any calls? I don't see international accounting as a show-stopper for small to mid-sized companies, or nonprofits, esp at a staff accountant level. I would target smaller companies, or us IFRS in your search terms… but you probably already tried that.

FAR 69, 85
AUD 84
BEC 85
REG 66, 87

[altomas989]

@simpleinterest It's been more than two years since I had a serious position. Over this time I've submitted quite a few resumes, get the call and maybe 20% of the time I get an initial interview but they always say the same thing, not enough experience or credentials. Yes I've tried both…

[Anonymous]

have you try A/R, A/P or other temp accounting positions as well? Those positions usually don't require as much experience or credentials. Since you have an accounting degree and accounting job experience, I am pretty sure you qualify for those positions. Once you get 6 months to a year accounting job experience under your belt, you could start looking for other jobs such as staff accountant or staff auditor position for better advancement/pay. You just need to start with a lower position or try internship. I wish you the best luck on your job search.

[altomas989]

@CalCPA I've applied to a few, not too many but I will consider focusing more on a/r or a/p roles. Are there any specific companies that you would recommend applying to? Thank you

[Anonymous]

Robert Half temp services would be a place to start

[Pete]

I wouldn't recommend Robert and Half, unless you find a good recruiter there. Smaller recruitment agencies will likely be more willing to speak with you.

I'm in the same boat as yourself. It's extremely frustrating. Your best bet is to network your way into a CPA firm. I wouldn't even consider the BIG 4 firms, unless you get a very strong connection; the larger the firm, the more structured their hiring practices.

I've passed both the CPA and CFE, while also getting a 3.7 on my remaining 30 credit hours and I can't get a new position either. You aren't the only one in this situation.

B=84 This exam was such a b**** that I thought I failed-don't know how these things work
A=76 Slacker I am, I'll happily take it
R=81 I LOVE taxes
F=80 I don't wanna get banned for an expletive I'm thinking with "yea" proceeding it

[Author]

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