Accounting recruitment: everything you need to know

THE PROFILE OF THE IDEAL CANDIDATE FOR ACCOUNTING JOBS

When it comes to accounting and finance jobs, companies generally look for candidates with a specific set of skills and characteristics.

To become a certified accountant, for example, the candidate's background can be very broad, but as a general rule an ideal candidate should have a university degree and be registered with the OCC - Ordem dos Contabilistas Certificados (Order of Certified Accountants). In addition to having a solid academic background in accounting, it is essential that the candidate has a good knowledge of accounting laws and regulations, knowledge of accounting software, the ability to work with numbers and good analytical skills. 

As in so many other areas, accountancy also deserves a keen eye for current and future trends. With the advance of technology, the accounting area is also undergoing significant changes. The automation of accounting processes is becoming more and more common, which means there is a growing need for accounting professionals with data analysis skills and knowledge of technology. Accountancy consultancy is an area that is also gaining more and more prominence these days, which means that professionals need to be aware that they need to develop interpersonal and communication skills to collaborate with other areas of the company and provide strategic insights.

In addition, there are always several skills that can make you stand out in a recruitment process in this area. Take note:

• Critical thinking
• Ability to adapt to rapid change
• Ability to make decisions based on analyzing data
• Good leadership skills
• Attention to detail
• Being organized
• Good communication skills
• Ability to work in a team.

THE CHALLENGES OF RECRUITMENT IN ACCOUNTING

Recruitment in the accounting field presents unique challenges. One of the main ones is screening qualified candidates. Professionals with accounting experience are in high demand, which makes the market highly competitive. In addition, companies often must hire professionals with specific knowledge in specialized areas such as auditing, tax or management accounting.

Another challenge is finding candidates who fit in well with a company's organizational culture. This is because accounting deals with sensitive financial information and it is crucial that candidates have high integrity and professional ethics, in addition to their more technical skills. This assessment by recruitment teams can always be challenging.

HOW TO STAND OUT IN AN ACCOUNTING RECRUITMENT PROCESS

To stand out in an accounting recruitment process, it's important to prepare properly. This includes updating your CV to highlight your competences in this area and relevant achievements. It's essential to demonstrate your knowledge of accounting and your commitment to keeping up to date with the changes and demands of the labor market around you.

It is also advisable to research the company before the interview, to understand its specific needs and challenges in the accounting area. This will help you formulate targeted responses and demonstrate your genuine interest in the job.

During the process, always show your commitment to constantly improving your skills and knowledge. Attending refresher courses, obtaining certifications, and participating in events in the field are all ways of demonstrating your interest in staying relevant.

As we mentioned earlier, don't neglect your soft skills and interpersonal and communication skills in order to stand out as a potential consultant. Attending workshops or looking for development opportunities in these areas can make the difference between one candidate and another!

THE ROLE OF RECRUITMENT AGENCIES

Recruitment agencies specializing in the areas of accounting and finance, such as Fed Finance Portugal, play an important role in connecting qualified candidates with the companies that are hiring these professionals. These agencies have privileged access to a vast network of professionals, particularly in the areas of accounting and finance, and can help companies that entrust them with recruitment to find the ideal candidate for a specific vacancy. 

In addition, recruitment agencies can offer advice and guidance to candidates during the recruitment process, helping them prepare for interviews and providing valuable information about the financial and accounting market.