Are you an accountant who wants to climb the corporate ladder? Well, s1jobs.com can help: every day you can find amazing opportunities to advance your career in the world of big numbers.
But how do you get yourself into shape to grab these top jobs?
You do it by working hard at your professional development, by finding ways to polish your skills and by getting yourself noticed.
And one of the best ways to do all this in one go is to have a mentor; think of them as your own personal Yoda.
A great resource is the Virtual Career Mentoring Programme run by Scottish accountancy’s professional organisation, ICAS.
This scheme teams accountants with seasoned professionals from around the world.
Chewing your pen over a problem in Bathgate? You could find the help you need from a wise head in Brisbane or Buenos Aires.
Whether you take advice by teaming up with an ICAS mentor or listening to Granny Ina’s housekeeping tips, here are five ways to make the most of your one-on-one time with an expert.
- Stay focussed
This is not just a chat. It’s your chance to pick the brains of someone who has made it to the top. So keep your questions focused and listen carefully to their answers.
- Be clear about your goals
This is no time to be woolly. Be specific about what you’re trying to achieve and let your mentor help plot your course. It you want to be on the board of a blue chip company or set up your own practice, tell your mentor.
- Do your homework
Mentoring works through regular calls and meetings, usually once a month. Just imagine how bad you’ll feel if you discussed a plan of action in your previous chat but have not carried it through. Actions speak louder than words.
- Be honest
A good mentor wants to know your weaknesses as well as your strengths. After all, this is where the opportunities for professional improvement lie. So as well as listing your achievements, be truthful about where you struggle.
- No sudden moves
An amazing career opportunity suddenly opens up on s1jobs and you want to take it – that’s great but make the time to talk to your mentor first. They can help you plan your application and then make the most of the move.
For the best advice and best Accountancy vacancies visit s1jobs