Reflective narrative on personal strengths and professional challenges in accounting

¶ … MacPherson (2006), it is "personal attributes and qualities," rather than specific competencies and skills, "that separate top performers from the pack." Specifically, managers mention self-motivation, solid interpersonal skills, strategic thinking, innovativeness, and flexibility as the hallmarks of success in any given career (MacPherson, 2006). These are the very five competencies and skills that are necessary in accounting, my chosen profession. Of course, an aspiring accountant must acquire the specific competencies and skills that make it possible to do the daily work of number crunching. College education, degree, and certification are the preliminary groundwork for being an accountant, followed by as much hands-on experience as possible in accounting firms. After that, though, a professional must exhibit personal attributes and qualities that separate a successful from an unsuccessful accountant. The first of those qualities is self-motivation. The work of an accountant is largely independent work. Although we may need to work within a team, the bulk of our job requires a great degree of independence and self-motivation. This is especially true for accountants with their own private practice, who might need to market their services to clients. In addition to self-motivation, an accountant must communicate effectively. An accountant could never survive without being able to consult regularly with clients in an honest and straightforward manner. An accountant must also be able to think strategically: helping clients avoid future problems and helping to manage a client's future resources. Innovativeness may not be the most apparent quality of an accountant, but the techniques and ideas we come up with can save clients a significant amount of money. Finally, accountants must be flexible to meet the needs of clients and the changing economic guidelines and conditions.

b) Of these competencies and skills, my greatest strength is interpersonal communication. I work well with others, and have the ability to make my clients feel at ease. I would also work well in an accounting firm, in which my work contributes to the greater good. Because of my solid interpersonal skills, I would feel comfortable networking and marketing our firm. Being organized is also a great strength of mine that comes in handy especially in a profession built on keen organization. One of the reasons I want to be an accountant is because I am good at numbers and logical, linear thinking. My greatest challenges are probably my ability to be innovative within my chosen profession, and also to think strategically. I need to focus more on the future, envisioning what my clients might need and anticipating their needs. This does not seem like a primary task of an accountant, but if I truly want to make a difference in the world I must be more visionary.