9 answers
Genevieve
Student
Cedar Rapids
82
Questions
Asked
3091 views
More "social" accounting careers?
I worked as a cashier in a busy grocery store throughout high school and college. It was a good job, although there were days when I was overwhelmed by the hustle and bustle and interacting with so many people. When I had bad days, I dreamed of the day when I was an accountant and wouldn't have to interact with customers at all. Currently, I work in the tax department of a medium-sized corporation.
Surprisingly, I really miss interacting with customers and meeting new people. Some days, it feels like I just stare at my computer and enter data. So, on top of feeling lonely, my career feels very meaningless.
I've considered going back to school and earning my bachelor's in HR, but I was wondering if there were accounting careers where I could meet more people, or feel that my job had a positive impact.
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9 answers
Islamiyya Aina
Accountant
5
Answers
Baltimore, Maryland
Updated
Islamiyya’s Answer
Hello Genevieve, I would suggest looking at jobs in auditing or consulting as these fields rely more on social interactions within and outside of the company to get the job done. Speaking from the viewpoint of an audit associate, I have had the opportunity to interact with U.S based employees and international employees on a regular basis and a range of clients from different industries such as tech and real estate. What makes me feel motivated to do my job each day is seeing my client make drastic improvements within their business processes as a result of my work. These drastic improvements within their business processes can result in increased protection from cybersecurity threats and fraud which prevent prevalent issues within our society such as data breaches and stock market crashes.
Thank you! I appreciate you sharing your insight as an auditor. Being an auditor is a career that I have considered.
Genevieve
Carol Wong
Senior Analyst, Marketing Planning & Strategy
7
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Carol’s Answer
Hi Genevieve,
I can only speak from my own experience, but a career in Audit/Assurance at a public accounting firm definitely allows for social interaction, teamwork, and building up your people/networking skills.
For reference, I started off my career in Audit at a Big 4, right out of undergraduate and stayed at the firm for 2 years before switching jobs. The one thing that made me hesitate when switching jobs was that I loved the interactions and friends I had at work - I felt like I was truly part of a team. In public accounting, your daily life includes working towards deadlines on a team encompassing various levels of leadership and associates - so this fosters a great environment to bounce ideas off/review each others work/learn from eachother to achieve a common goal. If that's what you're looking for, I would say definitely research and check out a career in Public Accounting (whether it's a Big 4, Mid tier firm, etc...). The interview process can also be a great resource to you to feel out the culture of the firm and the people you'll be working with.
However, to be totally transparent, the actual work of an auditor did not excite me, and the hours can be very long and difficult. That's the reason why I ended up leaving public accounting after 2 years. During my time job searching, I felt that working in Public Accounting opened many doors for me; it gave me client-facing experience and helped me connect with other ex-Big 4 alum that went on to become hiring managers at other companies.
I can only speak from my own experience, but a career in Audit/Assurance at a public accounting firm definitely allows for social interaction, teamwork, and building up your people/networking skills.
For reference, I started off my career in Audit at a Big 4, right out of undergraduate and stayed at the firm for 2 years before switching jobs. The one thing that made me hesitate when switching jobs was that I loved the interactions and friends I had at work - I felt like I was truly part of a team. In public accounting, your daily life includes working towards deadlines on a team encompassing various levels of leadership and associates - so this fosters a great environment to bounce ideas off/review each others work/learn from eachother to achieve a common goal. If that's what you're looking for, I would say definitely research and check out a career in Public Accounting (whether it's a Big 4, Mid tier firm, etc...). The interview process can also be a great resource to you to feel out the culture of the firm and the people you'll be working with.
However, to be totally transparent, the actual work of an auditor did not excite me, and the hours can be very long and difficult. That's the reason why I ended up leaving public accounting after 2 years. During my time job searching, I felt that working in Public Accounting opened many doors for me; it gave me client-facing experience and helped me connect with other ex-Big 4 alum that went on to become hiring managers at other companies.
Thank you for sharing your perspective, Carol. I'm seriously considering an auditing career once I graduate with my bachelor's in accounting. I'm glad to hear that its a more social accounting career. Thanks again!
Genevieve
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian-Nutritionist & Software Developer since 1972 🡆 Optimization Of Human Performance
7217
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Genevieve!
Social Accounting Careers
If you’re looking for accounting careers that allow for more social interaction and a sense of positive impact, there are several paths you might consider. Here’s a detailed exploration of options within the accounting field that can fulfill your desire for customer interaction and meaningful work.
1. Forensic Accounting
Forensic accountants investigate financial discrepancies and fraud. This role often requires working closely with law enforcement, legal teams, and clients to resolve issues. The investigative nature of this job means you will frequently interact with various stakeholders, including witnesses and suspects, making it a dynamic environment where you can apply your accounting skills while engaging with people.
2. Management Accounting
Management accountants work within organizations to provide insights on financial performance and strategy. This role often involves collaboration with different departments, such as marketing or operations, to analyze costs and revenues. By presenting findings to management teams, you can influence business decisions directly, which can be very fulfilling and socially engaging.
3. Tax Consulting
While you currently work in a tax department, transitioning into tax consulting could offer more client-facing opportunities. Tax consultants advise individuals or businesses on tax strategies and compliance issues. This role typically involves meeting clients regularly to discuss their financial situations and provide tailored advice, allowing for significant interaction.
4. Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A)
FP&A professionals analyze an organization’s financial data to help guide strategic decisions. This role often requires working closely with various departments to gather information and present findings to senior management or stakeholders. The collaborative nature of FP&A can provide a sense of teamwork and community within the workplace.
5. Nonprofit Accounting
Working in nonprofit organizations allows accountants to contribute directly to causes they care about while interacting with donors, volunteers, and other stakeholders. Nonprofit accountants manage budgets, prepare financial reports, and ensure compliance with regulations—all while being part of a mission-driven environment that emphasizes social impact.
6. Public Accounting
In public accounting firms, especially those that focus on audit or advisory services, professionals frequently interact with clients from various industries. This role involves not only performing audits but also advising clients on best practices in financial management—providing ample opportunity for social engagement.
7. Teaching or Training in Accounting
If you enjoy sharing knowledge and interacting with others, consider teaching accounting at a community college or offering training sessions for corporate employees. Educators have the opportunity to engage with students or professionals actively seeking knowledge in the field.
Conclusion
Transitioning into one of these roles may help satisfy your desire for social interaction while still utilizing your accounting expertise. Each option provides unique opportunities for engagement with others while contributing positively to their financial well-being or organizational success.
The probability that this answer is correct is 95%.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
1. American Institute of CPAs (AICPA)
The AICPA provides resources on various career paths within accounting including forensic accounting and public accounting roles.
2. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
The BLS offers comprehensive data on job outlooks, responsibilities, and educational requirements across different accounting careers.
3. National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA)
NASBA provides insights into licensure requirements for different accounting specialties which can inform career transitions effectively.
✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫
God Bless You, Richly!
James Constantine,
The Little Old Aussie Battler.
Programming For Your Nutrition Education
~ Since 1972!
✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫
Social Accounting Careers
If you’re looking for accounting careers that allow for more social interaction and a sense of positive impact, there are several paths you might consider. Here’s a detailed exploration of options within the accounting field that can fulfill your desire for customer interaction and meaningful work.
1. Forensic Accounting
Forensic accountants investigate financial discrepancies and fraud. This role often requires working closely with law enforcement, legal teams, and clients to resolve issues. The investigative nature of this job means you will frequently interact with various stakeholders, including witnesses and suspects, making it a dynamic environment where you can apply your accounting skills while engaging with people.
2. Management Accounting
Management accountants work within organizations to provide insights on financial performance and strategy. This role often involves collaboration with different departments, such as marketing or operations, to analyze costs and revenues. By presenting findings to management teams, you can influence business decisions directly, which can be very fulfilling and socially engaging.
3. Tax Consulting
While you currently work in a tax department, transitioning into tax consulting could offer more client-facing opportunities. Tax consultants advise individuals or businesses on tax strategies and compliance issues. This role typically involves meeting clients regularly to discuss their financial situations and provide tailored advice, allowing for significant interaction.
4. Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A)
FP&A professionals analyze an organization’s financial data to help guide strategic decisions. This role often requires working closely with various departments to gather information and present findings to senior management or stakeholders. The collaborative nature of FP&A can provide a sense of teamwork and community within the workplace.
5. Nonprofit Accounting
Working in nonprofit organizations allows accountants to contribute directly to causes they care about while interacting with donors, volunteers, and other stakeholders. Nonprofit accountants manage budgets, prepare financial reports, and ensure compliance with regulations—all while being part of a mission-driven environment that emphasizes social impact.
6. Public Accounting
In public accounting firms, especially those that focus on audit or advisory services, professionals frequently interact with clients from various industries. This role involves not only performing audits but also advising clients on best practices in financial management—providing ample opportunity for social engagement.
7. Teaching or Training in Accounting
If you enjoy sharing knowledge and interacting with others, consider teaching accounting at a community college or offering training sessions for corporate employees. Educators have the opportunity to engage with students or professionals actively seeking knowledge in the field.
Conclusion
Transitioning into one of these roles may help satisfy your desire for social interaction while still utilizing your accounting expertise. Each option provides unique opportunities for engagement with others while contributing positively to their financial well-being or organizational success.
The probability that this answer is correct is 95%.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
1. American Institute of CPAs (AICPA)
The AICPA provides resources on various career paths within accounting including forensic accounting and public accounting roles.
2. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
The BLS offers comprehensive data on job outlooks, responsibilities, and educational requirements across different accounting careers.
3. National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA)
NASBA provides insights into licensure requirements for different accounting specialties which can inform career transitions effectively.
✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫
God Bless You, Richly!
James Constantine,
The Little Old Aussie Battler.
Programming For Your Nutrition Education
~ Since 1972!
✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫
Thank you!
Genevieve
You're right Genevieve and don't forget to ask for more information if you need it! Because that is what we are here for on www.careervillage.org
James Constantine Frangos
Cynthia Jaurigui
Operational Accounting
1
Answer
San Francisco, California
Updated
Cynthia’s Answer
A degree in Business (accounting) opens up many doors. If you really want to transition to HR, you likely don't need to go back to school. Start making connections with the HR folks at work and begin asking them what a transition might look like. It might be as small as starting with an analytical role in HR or a certification.
That said, I have a degree in Business with a concentration in corporate finance and have worked as a billing analyst, revenue analyst and financial analyst. I was most happy in team environments but there is a difference between technical accounting and operational accounting. I now work as a project accountant and it is more of an operational role and I absolutely love it. I help other teams get purchase orders approved by helping them through the process with many other teams. I've also found that company and team size matters to me. You learn a ton in small companies but large companies have more people to interact with and more career opportunities.
If your priority to make more money, then an MBA would help. If your priority to be happier, then I suggest setting yourself up with a healthy saving account in case anything ever happens to your current job. This will afford you the luxury to interview prospective employers rather the other way around. Trust your gut in the interview process and learn what the day to day is like in the roles you seek. Also, don't be afraid to ask who these roles interact with as part of a normal day or week.
Another thing that helps is to look at job posting and reading what they entail. Atypical accounting roles will begin to stand out. You can also use LinkedIn to final the people who have the roles you think you might want in accounting or HR and see what it took them to get there. Who knows? You might find someone with a role you like and same degree that you have.
There are so many different types of roles, companies and industries. There are for-profit companies, non-profit companies, start-ups, giant companies. You will find your way but do the homework and start exploring job postings, people in desirable positions and talk with as many people as possible (that is your strength here). Best of luck to you!
That said, I have a degree in Business with a concentration in corporate finance and have worked as a billing analyst, revenue analyst and financial analyst. I was most happy in team environments but there is a difference between technical accounting and operational accounting. I now work as a project accountant and it is more of an operational role and I absolutely love it. I help other teams get purchase orders approved by helping them through the process with many other teams. I've also found that company and team size matters to me. You learn a ton in small companies but large companies have more people to interact with and more career opportunities.
If your priority to make more money, then an MBA would help. If your priority to be happier, then I suggest setting yourself up with a healthy saving account in case anything ever happens to your current job. This will afford you the luxury to interview prospective employers rather the other way around. Trust your gut in the interview process and learn what the day to day is like in the roles you seek. Also, don't be afraid to ask who these roles interact with as part of a normal day or week.
Another thing that helps is to look at job posting and reading what they entail. Atypical accounting roles will begin to stand out. You can also use LinkedIn to final the people who have the roles you think you might want in accounting or HR and see what it took them to get there. Who knows? You might find someone with a role you like and same degree that you have.
There are so many different types of roles, companies and industries. There are for-profit companies, non-profit companies, start-ups, giant companies. You will find your way but do the homework and start exploring job postings, people in desirable positions and talk with as many people as possible (that is your strength here). Best of luck to you!
Thanks for taking the time to help me Cynthia!!
Genevieve
Angel S
UI/UX Design Aspirant
452
Answers
India
Updated
Angel’s Answer
There are several accounting-related careers that can offer more social interaction and a sense of positive impact:
Forensic Accounting: Involves investigating fraud and financial crimes, often requiring collaboration with law enforcement and other professionals, offering dynamic, people-centered work.
Management Accounting: Works closely with company managers to assess performance, create budgets, and make decisions, allowing more interaction and input on business strategies.
Financial Advising: Helps individuals or companies manage their finances, offering a chance to build long-term relationships with clients and provide personalized financial guidance.
Nonprofit Accounting: Working for nonprofits can bring a sense of purpose and social interaction, as you’ll work with staff, donors, and community members to support meaningful causes.
Audit: While it involves some solitary work, auditors often interact with clients and colleagues, requiring communication and relationship-building to understand business operations.
These roles can provide a blend of social engagement and the analytical work you enjoy in accounting, making your career both fulfilling and impactful.
Forensic Accounting: Involves investigating fraud and financial crimes, often requiring collaboration with law enforcement and other professionals, offering dynamic, people-centered work.
Management Accounting: Works closely with company managers to assess performance, create budgets, and make decisions, allowing more interaction and input on business strategies.
Financial Advising: Helps individuals or companies manage their finances, offering a chance to build long-term relationships with clients and provide personalized financial guidance.
Nonprofit Accounting: Working for nonprofits can bring a sense of purpose and social interaction, as you’ll work with staff, donors, and community members to support meaningful causes.
Audit: While it involves some solitary work, auditors often interact with clients and colleagues, requiring communication and relationship-building to understand business operations.
These roles can provide a blend of social engagement and the analytical work you enjoy in accounting, making your career both fulfilling and impactful.
Thank you!
Genevieve
Justin Alexander
Assurance Partner
1
Answer
Louisville, Kentucky
Updated
Justin’s Answer
A career in auditing is team-oriented and involves regular interaction with your clients and your teammates. There is a lot of reward and personal satisfaction that comes with helping your clients solve problems and issues, working together as a team to meet a common goal, and playing an important role in protecting capital markets and the interests of your stakeholders.
Thank you!
Genevieve
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1333
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Genevieve, first of all, let me just say—what a plot twist! From “I’ll never deal with customers again” to “Where are my customers?!” This is like the reverse Cinderella of career moves, and I’m here for it. 🎭✨
Now, let’s address your existential spreadsheet crisis. You’re not alone—staring at a screen all day can make anyone feel like a robot trapped in an Excel file. But don’t worry, because there are plenty of ways to bring the social butterfly out of the cubicle.
Accounting Careers with a Social Spark:
Client-Facing Roles: Look into being a financial advisor or forensic accountant. These roles often have you interacting with people directly—solving problems, building trust, and occasionally feeling like a math-based superhero. (Who doesn’t want to save the day with a spreadsheet?)
Nonprofit or NGO Accountant: Want to feel warm and fuzzy about your job? Work for an organization making a positive impact. You’ll interact with people passionate about change while keeping the books balanced.
Accounting Consultant: Imagine being the accounting version of a globetrotter. You visit businesses, meet new people, and help them sort out their financial chaos. It’s like being an accountant and a detective with a carry-on suitcase.
Teaching or Training Accountants: If you like helping people learn, you could teach accounting at a community college or train new employees. Bonus points if you’re good with PowerPoint—teaching is 50% knowledge, 50% memes.
Internal Auditor in Big Teams: Auditors often move around departments, interview employees, and build relationships while keeping things squeaky clean. It’s social and challenging.
Or Maybe... HR Meets Numbers?
If HR feels like the perfect blend of people and purpose for you, then go for it! You already know the hustle and bustle from your grocery store days, and you’re clearly good at connecting with people. Imagine helping teams thrive while sprinkling in your accounting expertise. That’s a combo meal of skills right there.
Genevieve, you’ve got the skills, the experience, and now the realization of what you need to feel fulfilled. That’s huge! So whether it’s mingling as a consultant or guiding teams in HR, you’re about to upgrade your career from Ctrl+C to Ctrl+Wow. 🚀
Now go out there and make those career dreams happen—because your next step is about to be as impactful as your grocery store customer service days, just with fewer coupon disputes. 😉
Now, let’s address your existential spreadsheet crisis. You’re not alone—staring at a screen all day can make anyone feel like a robot trapped in an Excel file. But don’t worry, because there are plenty of ways to bring the social butterfly out of the cubicle.
Accounting Careers with a Social Spark:
Client-Facing Roles: Look into being a financial advisor or forensic accountant. These roles often have you interacting with people directly—solving problems, building trust, and occasionally feeling like a math-based superhero. (Who doesn’t want to save the day with a spreadsheet?)
Nonprofit or NGO Accountant: Want to feel warm and fuzzy about your job? Work for an organization making a positive impact. You’ll interact with people passionate about change while keeping the books balanced.
Accounting Consultant: Imagine being the accounting version of a globetrotter. You visit businesses, meet new people, and help them sort out their financial chaos. It’s like being an accountant and a detective with a carry-on suitcase.
Teaching or Training Accountants: If you like helping people learn, you could teach accounting at a community college or train new employees. Bonus points if you’re good with PowerPoint—teaching is 50% knowledge, 50% memes.
Internal Auditor in Big Teams: Auditors often move around departments, interview employees, and build relationships while keeping things squeaky clean. It’s social and challenging.
Or Maybe... HR Meets Numbers?
If HR feels like the perfect blend of people and purpose for you, then go for it! You already know the hustle and bustle from your grocery store days, and you’re clearly good at connecting with people. Imagine helping teams thrive while sprinkling in your accounting expertise. That’s a combo meal of skills right there.
Genevieve, you’ve got the skills, the experience, and now the realization of what you need to feel fulfilled. That’s huge! So whether it’s mingling as a consultant or guiding teams in HR, you’re about to upgrade your career from Ctrl+C to Ctrl+Wow. 🚀
Now go out there and make those career dreams happen—because your next step is about to be as impactful as your grocery store customer service days, just with fewer coupon disputes. 😉
Isida M
Accountant
38
Answers
Tirana, Tirana County, Albania
Updated
Isida’s Answer
Apart from the Angel's answer, I would like to add some other suggestions:
1. The restaurant accountant: position covers topics such as cost control, inventory management, payroll, and financial reporting tailored to the restaurant industry
2. The environmental accountant: Apart from obtaining a bachelor's degree in accounting, obtaining professional certifications can enhance your credentials for example the Certified Environmental Accountant (CEA) if available in your region. Look carefully and consider this type of position as an accountant role. May blessings always be upon you!
1. The restaurant accountant: position covers topics such as cost control, inventory management, payroll, and financial reporting tailored to the restaurant industry
2. The environmental accountant: Apart from obtaining a bachelor's degree in accounting, obtaining professional certifications can enhance your credentials for example the Certified Environmental Accountant (CEA) if available in your region. Look carefully and consider this type of position as an accountant role. May blessings always be upon you!
Thank you Isida! I've never heard of a CEA before, I will have to check that out!
Genevieve
Levi Ferguson
Accountant
9
Answers
Jacksonville, Florida
Updated
Levi’s Answer
Hi Genevieve,
It is never a great feeling when your job feels meaningless! Just entering data and staring at screen all day without any team or social interaction can feel very grey. It is never too late to turn things around and think about new opportunities as they definitely exist!
Working in public accounting can really help with not feeling alone when you are working. You normally work in teams which can vary in size, but you normally will work with other accountants in your similar role. This can create a lot of camaraderie within your team as everyone is working towards providing the best services to their clients and this cannot be done without working as a team! You can find meaning in your job as you offer value-add services to your client to help their business. You also have the opportunity to meet and know your client on a personal level which helps build strong and healthy relations. There are also opportunities to volunteer and give back to your community!
If public accounting is not something you would be interested in, you could work in tax consulting and help individuals answer complex tax questions. This route definitely is more direct when it comes to relations as you would be actively consulting and meeting with your clients to understand their pain points, questions, and themselves in more detail.
I hope this helps and that you find an opportunity that sparks your passion!
It is never a great feeling when your job feels meaningless! Just entering data and staring at screen all day without any team or social interaction can feel very grey. It is never too late to turn things around and think about new opportunities as they definitely exist!
Working in public accounting can really help with not feeling alone when you are working. You normally work in teams which can vary in size, but you normally will work with other accountants in your similar role. This can create a lot of camaraderie within your team as everyone is working towards providing the best services to their clients and this cannot be done without working as a team! You can find meaning in your job as you offer value-add services to your client to help their business. You also have the opportunity to meet and know your client on a personal level which helps build strong and healthy relations. There are also opportunities to volunteer and give back to your community!
If public accounting is not something you would be interested in, you could work in tax consulting and help individuals answer complex tax questions. This route definitely is more direct when it comes to relations as you would be actively consulting and meeting with your clients to understand their pain points, questions, and themselves in more detail.
I hope this helps and that you find an opportunity that sparks your passion!