CIMA students are well placed, even in a tougher job market, say recruitment specialists. But they must work hard to demonstrate their worth. By Camilla Berens, freelance journalist.
According to specialist recruitment agencies, the job market has shifted from candidate driven to employer driven, one as the downturn forces employers to consider more carefully which vacancies to fill.
'It's important that management accountants realise the significance of this,' says Meagan Anderson, a business development manager at Adecco. 'More than ever, candidates need to be able to sell their value as management accountants and demonstrate their worth.'
Self promotion is the name of the game. 'Management accountants are now seen as business partners,' says Neil Owen, a director at Robert Half. 'They have interpersonal skills, presentations skills and are able to convey a business case in a clear and concise way. CIMA students need to embrace that message and illustrate how they have used these skills both on their CV and at interview stage.'
Broad experience
A broad portfolio of experience is also an advantage. 'CIMA students who are looking for a role should be attempting to gain as much practical experience as possible as this is what will set them apart from their peers,' says Tracy Keevans, manager of the commerce and industry division of the Premier Group in Ireland. 'They should be targeting roles that offer good career development rather than the highest salary.'
Expanding on this theme, Heather Steele, a CIMA member and head of the financial and banking division of Adecco, says it's important to take up opportunities with your existing employer. 'Be as flexible as possible,' she advises. 'Jump on project offers that are going to stretch you and add to your skill set. The more skills you have, the more marketable you become.'
Heather also advises CIMA students to make sure their CVs are up to date. 'Get yourself ready so that if you find yourself making a change, your CV looks good and you've thought about how you're going to sell yourself. That way, you won't get caught by surprise.'
Keep in touch with colleagues and peers
Now, more than ever, networking is crucial.
'Go to regional events,' Heather continues. 'Get in touch with old colleagues and use online networking sites like Linked In. These are massively on the increase and a very good way of keeping in touch with business associates and old colleagues.'
'Be honest with your boss about your career plans. Your employer can't help you develop your career unless they know what you are looking for,' adds Neil Owen. 'In the downturn, companies are seeking to improve the quality of their management teams and the climate is right for management accountants to show their value as business partners.'
Even if you weren't thinking of moving, it is a good idea to find out what is available out there in the job market. 'You don't necessarily have to make a move, just put out feelers,' Meagan Anderson says. 'We really advocate working on a relationship basis where candidates can call and tap into us for advice and general career guidance on a regular basis.'
Once on the market, a high level of preparation is essential. 'Do your preparation over and above what would normally be expected,' says Neil Owen. 'Research the industry and the business thoroughly. On your CV, highlight specific examples of how you have added value, rather than simply putting "involved in" or "assisted with".'
Vanessa Harding-Farrenberg, joint managing director of Morgan McKinley in Sydney agrees. 'In Australia, CIMA accountants are typically recognised for their strong commercial acumen and problem-solving skills,' she says. 'Given the high levels of competition between candidates for available jobs, it's advisable for people to take time highlighting their career achievements, particularly if they relate to cost cutting, improving efficiency, securing lucrative contracts and increasing revenue.'
Related links
CIMA MYJOBS
Creative job hunting
Contact us
You can contact us with your feedback and suggestions for Velocity at velocity@cimaglobal.com.