[Anonymous]

Hello everyone,

I have been looking far and wide for job opportunities. I have recently received notice about a phone interview from a regional accounting firm. I am super happy about it. I have been looking for an opportunity like this all year. I currently work at Walmart part time as a cashier. I have no experience or any other internships behind me but I have 3/4 of the cpa done. Would this be a “good” thing to discuss over the phone with the recruiter? Also what do recruiters look for in candidates other than experience?
I really do not want to mess this up.

[letsrun4it]

Good question. I worked in restaurant business from 18-26 and graduated from college when I was 19 so I had been out of college 7 years when I tried to make my first foray into the so called professional world so I know sort of what you are dealing with. Zero experience they will give you credit for. That's ok.

Emphasize your education, that's why they called you because obviously you have or are close to having a college degree. Share with them you have passed 3 out of the 4 CPA exams. Explain you want to find the right fit at an accounting firm and work at Walmart as a cashier because the reality of life is you need a job to pay bills until the next phase of your life. The best thing is the person you speak to on the phone will be a real person who understands all of this. Just don't be defensive or make anything up.

Recruiters are looking at ways to make you a fit for the organization, not to exclude you. They've seen your resume and are willing to talk to you, so don't feel weird about it. Good luck!

BEC: 85
REG: 74, 78
AUD: 86
FAR: October?

[Anonymous]

Hey letsrun4it, thank you for the advice. I have another question too. See I graduated with my BBA in December 2015. I have been out of school this whole time working and studying for the cpa. Do you think it would look bad to “not be a student” and ask for an internship?

[letsrun4it]

No it doesn't look bad at all. But hey if you can land an ongoing full time gig that'd be ideal right so shoot for that! Remember lot of fish in the job sea.

BEC: 85
REG: 74, 78
AUD: 86
FAR: October?

[Missy]

Here's what recruiters and
employers are looking for-someone who is an asset to their firm. Sure it's fine to say which exams you've passed but frame it in a way that is about them not you- “just finished the audit exam and want to put what I've learned into practice.” Regarding your Wal-Mart experience also frame it to their benefit-working with diverse customer base, register accuracy, etc.

Licensed Massachusetts Non Reporting CPA since 2012
Finance/Admin/HR Manager

[Author]

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