How to Find an Accounting Mentor
Vincent Benjamin

Finding a mentor is imperative in your career search, but few professionals ever take this step. You will find when you have someone to help you evaluate your steps, answer your questions, and share their experiences you will be a better overall candidate when you look for you next job. So how can you find a mentor in accounting? Where do you even begin to look? While you shouldn’t just approach a stranger, here are some ideas to get you started.

  • Accounting professors. You spent a lot of time and money pursuing your education to become a successful accountant. Continue to tap into that resource to help you in the future. Reach out to your former professors and schedule a time to meet up face to face. They have knowledge of the industry, but they also have some experience working with the business community, so they can be a great source of information to help you move forward.
  • On LinkedIn. LinkedIn is more critical than ever for professional networking. Whether you’re currently employed or not, fleshing out your profile and getting involved with groups is as great way to expand your professional contact list. Use this to connect with accounting professionals in your area who have similar experiences. Reach out to them to see if they would be interested in meeting and discussing their journey with you.
  • Local business leaders. Is there someone in your community that you admire for what they’ve done with their career? Go ahead and send them a note or an email that tells them you like what they do. This can open the doors to a dialogue that can lead to a mentor relationship. Even if it doesn’t you may have made an important contact for your future.
  • Blogs and memoirs. In today’s connect world, you may never have to meet your mentor in person. Follow blogs from people you admire. Read the memoirs of individuals who interest you. You will be surprised at what you can learn from just expanding your experience and reading new materials. On a blog, feel free to comment with questions and you may get a fantastic response that will help you advance your career.

Do you want to find a mentor to help you in your accounting career? We have accounting recruiters located in Phoenix, Orange County, Los Angeles and Denver, so call now! 

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