A day in the life of an Accountant

You’re interested in a career as an Accountant and would like to know what a typical day in the industry looks like? Great. The first in our ‘a day in the life of...’ series explores what a typical day as an Accountant involves, and shows you how to start training for a career as an Accountant.

The finance industry is fast-paced, and your days may be very different and vary, depending on the time of the year (you will find it’s an especially busy time around year-end).

09:00 to 12:30

As you get started for the day, you will likely be making yourself your first cup of coffee, then check voicemails and catch up with any outstanding emails. You may be required to attend morning meetings as and where necessary, and you will also use this time in the morning to catch up with your colleagues to discuss any outstanding tasks for your clients. 

12:30 to 13:30 – Lunch

Many people in this industry prefer to eat lunch at their desks and having a working lunch. It's important to remember that you need to be sure you take ample screen breaks and time away from work or the office.

13:30 to 17:30

Your afternoons will be spent responding to new emails, messages and handle administrative tasks for the remainder of the day. 

On any given day, these tasks will include:

•    VAT Returns
•    Accounts
•    Tax Returns
•    Review financial reports
•    Reconciling account balances and bank statements
•    Managing cash controls
•    Responding to client queries

Discover the differences between Bookkeeping and Accounting to see if a career as a Bookkeeper is more suitable for your career goals.  

Your route to a new career as an Accountant

Which accounting courses should you consider for a career in Accounting?

If a career as an Accountant is now of interest to you but you have little or no experience, we suggest undertaking professional AAT qualifications, as they are industry-recognised and highly regarded by employers. The below AAT pathway suits newcomers to this industry, as each course builds on from the proceeding one to help you become a well-rounded accounting professional.

AT Foundation Certificate in Accounting (Level 2)

The AAT Foundation Certificate in Accounting (Level 2) qualification prepares you for entry-level accounting job roles by building up your knowledge of financial administration. You will learn essential skills such as double-entry bookkeeping, basic costing principles, costings, and how to use accounting software.

AAT Advanced Diploma in Accounting (Level 3)

The AAT Advanced Diploma in Accounting (Level 3) qualification has been specifically designed to provide you with the necessary skills and credibility to progress within the Accounting industry. Whether you’re looking to start your own company or you want to take on a senior accounting role within an established organisation, this course is the ideal route to get you there.

Upon completion of this course, you'll be awarded Professional AAT Bookkeeper status, which allows you to legally submit the final balance for companies of any size, and use the initials AATQB after your name, and becoming a Licensed Bookkeeper.

AAT Professional Diploma in Accounting (Level 4)

The AAT Professional Diploma in Accounting (Level 4) qualification builds on the knowledge gained through the AAT Level 2 Certificate & Level 3 Advanced Diploma in Accounting, opening options for you to study a Chartered or Management Accounts qualification, like CIMA Certificate in Business Accounting.

Once you have completed the AAT Professional Diploma in Accounting (Level 4) and fulfilled the AAT work experience requirements, you can apply for AAT full membership and achieve professional MAAT status. You can then use the designatory letters MAAT after your name, becoming a Licensed Accountant.

You can also study for your CIMA qualifications and work towards a career as a Chartered Accountant. Read our Interview with a CIMA Graduate & Chartered Accountant to see if this is a route for you.

Ready to get started? Explore our range of AAT Accounting qualification. Alternatively, call us on +44 (0) 20 3198 7700 to speak to one of our Career Consultants today, to discuss your career goals or get started.