If you're a Part-Qualified Accountant working in Industry or Commerce, you're part of a growing group of ambitious candidates all gaining experience while studying. With so many people in the market, it can be tough to navigate and make yourself noticed. So, how do you stand out?
1. Emphasise your core finance experience
Whether you're working in month-end reporting, balance sheet reconciliations, accruals, or journals, this experience is valuable. Make sure it's clear on your CV and LinkedIn profile. If you've worked on audit prep, helped implement controls, or supported year-end processes, don't underplay it. These are the building blocks of solid finance careers.
2. Strengthen your soft skills
You can strengthen your soft skills by practising clear communication, seeking feedback, collaborating across teams, and developing emotional intelligence. Building relationships and taking courses on communication and leadership also help you stand out in a competitive market. You're not just reporting numbers, you're telling a story that helps non-finance teams understand performance and supports business decisions.
3. Show steady progress toward qualification
This might seem basic, but it's often overlooked. Employers want to see that you're not just dabbling in exams but are committed to finishing them. Keep your CV and LinkedIn updated with the papers you've passed and your target completion date. This shows planning, resilience, and follow-through. Consistent progress, even if slow, is better than going quiet.
4. Be proactive
Have you automated a report, improved a dashboard, or found a new way to track KPIs? Even small initiatives can make a big difference. Employers value people who spot problems and solve them without being asked.
5. Keep your LinkedIn profile sharp
Think of LinkedIn as your shop window. Use it to showcase your role, achievements, and sector focus, whether retail, tech, or manufacturing. Follow relevant pages, share articles, and engage with industry content to stay visible.
6. Know your industry
It's not just about internal numbers. Stay curious about your sector by researching competitors, market trends, and challenges. If you can speak confidently about what's happening outside the business, you'll be seen as someone ready for more strategic work.
Being Part-Qualified is a great place to be. It means you're building experience and investing in your future. But to really stand out, it's not just about passing exams. It's about showing that you think commercially, act proactively, and add real value to the business.
Got questions about your next move? Get in touch: khalid.iman@goodmanmasson.com
If you're a part-qualified accountant working in commerce or industry, you're part of a growing group of ambitious candidates all gaining experience while studying. With so many people in the market, it can be tough to navigate and make yourself noticed. So, how do you stand out?
