Dear Abby: Is it worth my time to get additional certifications? What certifications are beneficial and how are they viewed for accountants? CMA? CPA? CIA? Prospex Recruiting is here to share our expert advice to help you answer this tricky question.
The CPA: The Ultimate Accounting Credential
CPA is the Super Slammer of certifications for the accounting world (any POGS fans out there? Come on children of the 90’s!)! This certification requires additional requirements (varies based on state) with a certain amount of accounting credit hours, most likely a MAcc/MBA, and hours working under a CPA.
A CPA doesn’t necessarily mean someone is qualified for an accounting role, but it is used as a check box for a lot of accounting positions—especially the higher up the proverbial ladder you climb. I’ve had multiple professionals that have gone back later in their career to get their CPA because they were sick of being told “no” due to not being a CPA. Especially if you do public accounting, a comma-CPA is expected to follow your name.
The tests suck to take (no sugar coating here), but it is indefinitely worth it as you progress in your accounting career!
Other Certifications: Adding Value to Your Career
Aside from the CPA, any additional credentialing will add benefit. You will never regret having additional certifications. Depending on your industry focus, certain certifications can really set you above the competition.
If you are targeting manufacturing/supply chain, a CMA and Six Sigma are highly sought after. If you are focusing on Internal Audit, a CIA is very relevant.
Hard Work + Certifications = Career Success
Ultimately, the proof is in the pudding. You can be the most decorated professional out there, but you have to be able to put the decor to work. Certifications alone won’t make you an elite professional, but couple that with hard work, strong cultural addition, and results, and you’re setting yourself up for a fantastic career!
Let’s Talk: What’s Your Experience?
What have your experiences been with/without a CPA and additional certifications?! Message me or anyone in the Prospex Recruiting fam, and we can talk through what makes the most sense for your career path!
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